Ride & Hike #214: Giant Stairs by Bus

Discover the Giant Stairs Loop in Palisades Interstate Park—a hard, 4.3 mile trail featuring nearly a mile of thrilling rock scrambling over massive boulders, scenic cascades, and jaw‑dropping Hudson River views. This rugged escape, just 30 minutes from NYC, climbs steep cliffs and skirts a waterfall, offering fresh air and dramatic vistas—a perfect wilderness retreat from the city noise for experienced hikers.

Pack your favorite sandwich and drink, we will have a snack break on the trail.

Don’t miss out on this exciting journey!

This is a Continuous Pace Hike: We’ll take breaks along the way, but not as often as on other hikes, since we need to maintain a steady pace to catch the train. Please note that transportation for this hike is limited, with departures only every two to three hours.

🗺️ About the Hike

• Small Group Experience: Limited to 15 participants.

• Hike Route: FootPath Map

• Official Trail Map: Palisades Interstate Park

• Difficulty: Challenging + Continuous Pace. This hike is suitable for hikers who can maintain at least a moderate to brisk pace.

• Hiker Skills: Experienced and well-conditioned hiker. High fitness level required; able to handle sustained steep ascents, rough terrain, and long, demanding trails.

• Elevation Gain: 1,010 ft (307 mt)

• Highest Elevation: 525 ft (160 mt)

• Lowest Elevation: 0 ft (0 mt)

• Hiking Distance: 5 mi (8 km). This includes the 0.3-mile (0.5 km) walk from the bus station to the trailhead.

• Hiking Time: 3h 30m. Since the bus runs every two hours, we need to complete the hike within this time to catch the 3:11 bus.

✅ Included: Hike led by a New York State licensed wilderness guide.

❌ Not Included: Train ticket or any other services or products not mentioned.

🚐 Bus Information

• Boarding Time: 10:20am

• Bus Departs: 10:30am

• Destination: 9W & Orbach Way

• Bus Ticket Price: $20.60 (RT) - Coach USA

• Travel Time: 25m (One Way)

We will be back at New York around 4:00pm.

🥾 Outdoor Essentials

• Hiking boots or sturdy sneakers are mandatory, as most hikes involve rocky terrain.

• Bring at least 2 liters of water, but feel free to bring additional amounts if needed.

• Wear layers according to whether you tend to feel hot or cold, and always choose comfortable clothing for flexibility and warmth.

• Feel free to bring any accessories you consider necessary to enjoy this adventure to the fullest (e.g., hiking sticks, backpack, camera, cellphone, etc).

⚠️ Important

• Read all the Terms & Conditions.

• FAQ: Most of your frequent questions are answered here.

• All participants must complete and sign the waiver and release of liability before departure.

• If you have any medical conditions or concerns, consult your doctor to ensure that this hike is suitable for you.

• The hike route may change due to external factors such as safety concerns, the comfort of hikers, or acts of God. Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities, and adjustments will be made accordingly.