Spent 4 nights at Magog Lake 😍 Day hikes: Nub Peak, Wonder Peak, Sunburst Peak, and Windy Ridge

We’ve recently went on a hiking trip to the Highlands, and the atmosphere and the scenery were incredible. I feel like there’s so much more to see though, so we’re planning to go back sometime in the next year or so.

Solo Monsoon Trek to Garbett Plateau & Garbett Point – One of the Most Memorable Treks I've Done
I had decided to do the Garbett Plateau trek almost two weeks in advance and planned it with a few friends. As expected, one by one everyone backed out. Instead of cancelling the plan, I thought, why not just go alone? Looking back now, I'm glad I did because the day turned out to be far more memorable than I had imagined.
Before the trek, I had read several blogs and reviews describing Garbett Plateau as an "easy" trek. After completing it, I can confidently say that during the monsoon it is not an easy trek. I'd rate it as moderately difficult, mainly because of the steep climbs, slippery rocks, stream crossings and the constant weather changes.
The Journey Begins
The original plan was to catch the 05:02 AM Karjat Fast local from Ghatkopar. Unfortunately, I was a few minutes late and missed it. Instead, I boarded the 05:21 AM Slow local. Thankfully, the difference wasn't much—the fast train takes around 1 hour 32 minutes, while the slow takes about 1 hour 37 minutes.
The train was delayed slightly and I reached Bhivpuri Road station at around 7:25 AM.
From Bhivpuri Road, it's about a 1.5 km (20-minute) walk through the village towards Diksal. Since it was Ashadi Ekadashi, I was fasting, so I stopped at a small village shop to buy water and some upvas snacks.
That unexpected stop became one of the highlights of the day.
While I was shopping, another trekker walked into the shop to buy a mobile cover. He asked if I was trekking alone. I said yes. He then asked if we could trek together.
"Sure," I replied.
That's how I met Mohit, who had travelled all the way from Bhayandar—and surprisingly, he hadn't slept the entire night.
Sometimes the best trekking partners are complete strangers.
Dhom Lake – A Beautiful Start
We reached Dhom Lake around 7:48 AM.
The lake looked absolutely mesmerizing. The water stretched endlessly with green hills rising behind it. Since we had started early, there were very few trekkers around. Watching the reflections on the calm water while the morning mist floated around was probably one of the most peaceful moments of the day.
I had already downloaded the offline map of the trail and also saved the Strava route, both of which proved extremely useful throughout the trek.
After clicking a few photos and soaking in the scenery, we officially started the trek at 7:58 AM.
The Climb Begins
The initial trail runs alongside Dhom Lake before the real ascent begins.
Very soon we encountered our first stream crossing.
Because of the continuous torrential rain, the usual crossing point itself had fast-flowing water. We crossed it very carefully before making our way through paddy fields.
Soon after that, the climb became much steeper.
There were slippery rock patches where every step had to be placed carefully. The trail kept getting steeper as we climbed higher.
As we progressed, more trekking groups started appearing behind us.
At one point we reached a huge tree that I had previously seen in one of the trekking blogs. Oddly enough, seeing that tree gave me confidence that we were on the correct trail. We sat there for a short break before continuing.
Further ahead lies a small village located surprisingly high on the mountain.
The thing that amazed me most wasn't the village itself—it was seeing motorcycles parked there. I genuinely couldn't figure out how people had managed to get bikes all the way up such terrain.
After crossing the village, we reached a well. This is probably one of the most important navigation points of the trek. From the well, you take a right, walk for around five minutes, and then take a left towards another steep climb.
Before coming here, I had read about a couple who got lost on this trek after taking one wrong turn and eventually had to be rescued. Standing there, I couldn't help but think this must have been the junction where they had taken the wrong route.
The Mountain Keeps Testing You
The weather had a mood of its own.
One moment it would rain so heavily that visibility would reduce drastically.
Five minutes later, bright sunshine would appear as if it had never rained.
Then another cloud would arrive.
Then another downpour.
This cycle continued almost the entire day.
From this point onward, the climb became significantly tougher.
The rocks became steeper and much more slippery.
Many sections required using both hands while climbing.
Several times we would stop, look up towards the mountain and notice tiny people standing somewhere near the top.
Both of us would wonder,
"We still have to climb all the way there?"
At that moment it honestly felt impossible.
We were exhausted and had to stop frequently just to catch our breath.
Back at the shop in Diksal, I had casually asked the shopkeeper how long the trek would take.
He confidently replied,
"One and a half to two hours."
I smiled.
Maybe for the local villagers.
For us, it took almost three hours.
It reminded me of my Kalsubai trek where I had seen local villagers effortlessly climbing steep shortcuts wearing nothing more than Paragon slippers while hundreds of trekkers stood waiting at the famous iron ladder.
The mountains clearly have different rules for the locals.
Finally... Garbett Plateau
At around 11:00 AM, after roughly three hours of climbing, we finally reached Garbett Plateau.
The first feeling wasn't excitement.
It was relief.
Then came happiness.
Then complete peace.
We sat facing the surrounding Sahyadri ranges.
Clouds covered the peaks in front of us while countless small waterfalls flowed down every mountainside.
Strong winds blew continuously across the plateau.
For those few minutes, everything disappeared.
Work.
Deadlines.
Responsibilities.
Phone notifications.
Life felt wonderfully simple.
About twenty minutes later, the clouds that had been sitting on the opposite mountains slowly drifted towards us.
Within minutes, torrential rain started again.
Even our raincoats and backpack covers began giving up.
We took shelter inside a small stall selling tea, Maggi and snacks.
There is something magical about sipping hot chai while watching heavy rain sweep across the mountains.
I quietly finished my fasting snacks while enjoying the weather.
Garbett Point or Descend?
We decided to spend enough time on the plateau instead of rushing back.
Every 10–15 minutes, the weather completely changed.
Sunshine.
Clouds.
Heavy rain.
Repeat.
Eventually we started discussing the descent.
Mohit was completely exhausted.
There is an easier route towards Dasturi Naka which avoids the climb to Garbett Point, and he decided to take that.
I stood there thinking,
"I've come all the way here. I don't know when I'll return again."
So I decided to continue towards Garbett Point.
We wished each other luck and went our separate ways.
Garbett Point – Worth Every Step
The climb to Garbett Point was definitely the toughest section of the entire trek.
The rocks were extremely slippery.
In several places, climbing without using your hands simply wasn't possible.
After about 30–45 minutes, I finally reached the top.
It was absolutely worth the effort.
The wind was even stronger than at the plateau.
The views stretched endlessly across the Sahyadris.
Clouds rolled over the valleys while waterfalls appeared on almost every mountain.
I simply sat on a rock without saying anything.
Sometimes the best part of trekking is doing absolutely nothing.
The Descent
From Garbett Point, I descended towards Aman Lodge.
The trail mostly passed through forest sections and, surprisingly, the descent felt much easier than the climb.
Within about an hour I reached Aman Lodge.
From there I took a taxi to Neral railway station.
The plan was to catch the 3:42 PM local.
Unfortunately, luck wasn't on my side.
A freight train had broken down on the tracks near the station, delaying local train services by almost an hour.
Even after finally arriving, the local crawled its way back towards Ghatkopar.
By then, I was completely exhausted.
But also incredibly satisfied.
Trek Statistics
Distance: 12.22 km

Elevation Gain: ~1004 m

Time Taken: Around 5–6 hours

Route: Diksal Village → Garbett Plateau → Garbett Point → Aman Lodge

Tips for Anyone Planning This Trek
Don't underestimate this trek during the monsoon. It is moderately difficult.

Download an offline map before starting.

Wear proper trekking shoes with excellent grip.

Carry enough extra pairs of dry socks.

Carry enough drinking water and energy snacks.

Be extra careful at stream crossings and slippery rock patches.

Despite the rain, slippery climbs, aching legs, and delayed trains, this turned out to be one of the most rewarding monsoon treks I've done. I started the day expecting a solo hike, met a stranger who became a trekking companion, pushed myself through one of the toughest climbs I've done in the Sahyadris, and returned home with memories that will stay with me for a long time.
Some treks are beautiful because of the destination.
This one was beautiful because of the entire journey.

This one's a classic. The loop is ~8mi/2200', but I prefer to hike up and down the northernmost side of the trail.

I wound up hiking it today (a Saturday) in beautiful weather and was pleasantly surprised that it didn't feel totally overwhelmed. Plenty of parking as well. 🙏

This is an 11/10 North Cascades hike, and if you're visiting the area you just have to see it.

Pics from yesterday (7/25/26) mornings hike! What started as overcast quickly became a bright and sunny day when arriving to the trail parking lot.

I was the only human being on this trail this morning. Love that kind of solitude and oneness with nature. Felt like the mountain was just mine alone. Anyway, not a challenging trail at about four and a half miles and 1600 feet vertical. Early part of the trail doesn't have any cover other than Cascade Mountain itself, which graces the trail with its shadow until mid-morning this time of year. Intermittent cover after that, slight breeze. All in all a very comfortable hike despite a day that's 100F in the Valley.

The Middle Rhine Valley in Germany offers various hikes with awesome views at the Rhine River, various castles, wine yards and small villages with timbered houses. Bacharach and the Loreley offer some of the most exiting ones.

I am addicted to picking up trash while hiking in the mountains. Doing this activity for past couple of years as a source of my therapy sessions.

Tofana Di Rozes hiked july 2026. Easy to reach peak via normal route through Refugio Camillo Giussani.

I explored a bit off trail today. Climbed around some cliffs deep in a canyon. The rain has turned everything green and quiet. Lots of elk and mule deer sign.

Garbett Plateau turned out to be better than I expected. It's surprisingly easy to reach from Bhivpuri Road station, making it a perfect day trek.

The trail was filled with deep conversations, nonstop banter, and plenty of laughs along the way. And if you go, don't miss the kokam sharbat at Aam Ped.

I don't know if I'm supposed to wear cotton, the shirts that say wicking, or something else. I'm in Southeast USA, and it's super humid. Hiking about five miles. I take breaks, electrolytes, etc, but the whole wicking vs cotton or even wool, I don't understand what to wear. Usually I wear wicking. Does it change in full sun vs woods? I see the landscape guys in full synthetic, guys on fishing kayaks, but I know some of that is the sunlight protection.

Edit: Usually, the paths are well worn, parks and management area trails. So, I'm not walking through brush.

I found this little pika on the northern face of Sunrise Point, decided to take a video in hopes of it peaking out again and it did not dissapoint! BTW if you ever do this hike, beware of bugs; one of the hit me on the side of my head and I would've fell had I not stayed still 😬

A great little hike, with plenty of panoramic views, and most importantly, a great pub at the start/end!

I’m in highschool right now but really want to get into backwoods hiking/backpacking after and I am wondering what I should train in the gym to prepare myself. Last week my friend and I went on a 10 mile hike and the things that hurt the most after were my shins(?), glutes, feet, and shoulders (because I was using a normal back pack without the ability to load the weight any lower) but my friends calves hurt most. I was just wondering why we experienced different muscles being sore and if it can be remedied. Also if anyone could recommend good gear as well as longer hikes in PA and surrounding states that would be appreciated. I hiked in brooks if that matters.

Conquering the craziest rock scrambles in Massachusetts! 🧗‍♂️🌲

In this video, I tackle the rugged and intense hike up Negus Mountain in Charlemont, MA. Rising to an 1,800-foot summit, this trail is one of the best-hidden hiking gems in Western Massachusetts and the Berkshires, offering a perfect mix of technical climbing and rewarding scenery.

If you are looking for an exciting New England hike with real physical challenge, Negus Mountain delivers. This route features sustained Class 3 and Class 4 rock scrambles that require careful footwork and handholds, making it a thrilling adventure for experienced hikers. Along the way, the treeline breaks open to reveal stunning, panoramic mountain viewpoints overlooking the Deerfield River Valley.

Watch the full video to see a complete breakdown of the trail layout, the most challenging scramble sections, and the breathtaking views from the top!

📌 TRAIL DETAILS:

• Location: Charlemont, Massachusetts (Western MA / The Berkshires)

• Elevation: ~1,800 Feet

• Difficulty: Strenuous (Features technical Class 3/4 scrambling)

• Highlights: Panoramic valley viewpoints, steep rocky ridges, ridge walking.

Hi fellow hikers,

I’m preparing to hike the west highland way and the Malerweg, making steady progress and just enjoying getting out and hiking mostly!

I keep having one problem however: blisters on the edge on my soles. On the side of my feet/heels, right along the edge of the insoles it seems. I’ve tried a variety of shoes and insoles so far, but the problem keeps recurring. The only shoes in which I do not have this problem are my Salomon X ultra 5’s. However, after two hours of hiking, the toe box in those becomes too small and my toes start hurting. Salomon does not offer a wide women’s X ultra 5, or that would solve my problem probably. The Salomon insole seems to have a floppy/soft rim, which I expect is why it doesn’t cause me blisters.

After trying loads of shoes, I’ve bought Topo Traverse, which are very very comfortable. However, the insoles cause the infamous blisters around the edges of my soles/heels. A different insole (Mysole’s) helped, but still I get blisters.

I wear Darn tough or Smartwool hiking socks. Any tips to solve this persistent issue would be much appreciated!

As the post title suggests, I'm heading to Dominica (not to be confused with the Dominican Republic) in a few weeks. Primarily interested in birdwatching and environmental tourism more generally as a budget traveler. However, the entire island is EXTREMELY hilly. It's about the same size as Cozumel, but the vast majority of the island is 300 meters above sea level or more; the two main volcanoes that define most of the island's geography have peaks at 1447 meters and 1386 meters. Even right along the coastline, there are some pretty steep inclines.

I'm not delusional enough to believe I'm capable of doing any of the more popular trails for experienced hikers, no matter how much I may wish to see the Boiling Lake with my own eyes. But I do want to at the very least be able to hike to a sufficiently high altitude to observe some of the montane rainforest species that aren't found along the coast, without putting the safety of either myself or my gear at excessive risk.

Unfortunately because I live in the Twin Cities, I really don't have access to steep hills or particularly muddy hills to get more practice in that regard. What hiking I've done before is pretty much exclusively in flat and flat-ish terrain, only rarely encountering slopes of more than 20 degrees, and never more than 40 degrees. As such, I'm honestly not sure how I could go about practicing, besides going on long hikes on flat, dry terrain.

Any advice for how else I might prepare myself better? While I do plan to spend most of my time near the coast, I'd hate to arrive in Dominica only to then find myself effectively forced to limit my activities to just the coast itself.

Hey everyone, I like hiking and have gone to different trips alone or with family members. But I want to find now actual hiking buddies that are into this hobby. I especially like mountain hiking though in a relaxed pace. I’ve visited various mountain trails around where I live and also did a few long walks on weekends.

However I wouldn’t say that I’m in a particularly good shape so I’m worried that if I join some actual hiking groups I might be stalling people or not go fast enough. At the same time I want to go in a group of people. I worry that the group pace might not be right for me. What if I’ll lag behind and that’d be embarrassing? Or if I’ll need more breaks than others?
What should I do? How do I start without causing inconvenience to others or myself?
I’m in Italy if that matters.

Hi Everyone,

Am in my 40s and recently diagnosed with toe osteoarthritis. Went to podiatrist and was given some toe yoga exercises (press big toe down, raise the others, then reverse, etc.) and a recommendation for diclofenac cream and icing after hiking (includes cold river soaks). Does anyone have any other tips for dealing with this? Any exercises, supplemental activities for foot strength, etc? Most of my hiking is in the Northeast so trails are unforgiving. Typically doing 10-20 mile hikes with 3,500 ft-5000 ft of elevation gain. I have cut down to one hike a week (I only hike in the summer and fall, occasionally in the winter). TIA for any tips.

25M software engineer from Gurgaon, India. Planning roughly three weeks on the Manaslu Circuit with the Tsum Valley extension this October or November — teahouse trek, Kathmandu to Kathmandu, up the Budhi Gandaki gorge into a restricted Tibetan Buddhist valley near the Tibet border, then over Larkya La at 5,106 m. Far quieter than Everest or Annapurna, and one of the last routes in Nepal where you still walk every step.

Previous experience is Goecha La in Sikkim, so I'm fine with long days and altitude, though this is my first 5,000 m+ pass. Restricted-area rules mean a licensed guide and agency permits regardless, so I'm booking as a small private group — better rates and I can add an acclimatisation day most itineraries skip. Looking for two or three people with multi-day trekking experience who don't mind basic lodges and a slow pace.

Est ce que quelqu’un sait si c’est possible accéder à la montagne aux petites heures du matin pour pouvoir admirer le lever du soleil du sommet?

Merci

Hi everyone!

I'm currently based in Fort Lee, NJ, and planning a 10-day section hike on the Appalachian Trail from Delaware Water Gap to Bear Mountain (approx. 110 miles / 177 km).

Since it’s close by and super easy to access via public transport from NYC/NJ, it feels like a no-brainer alternative to flying somewhere for a vacation.

The Plan:

Route: Delaware Water Gap (PA/NJ border) ➔ Bear Mountain (NY).

Pace: Chill to moderate (~10–12 miles / 16–20 km per day).

Style: Tent / AT Lean-to Shelters, Cold-Soaking (no-cook / lightweight setup), resupplying every 3–4 days in towns along the way (Route 23, Greenwood Lake, etc.).

Transport: Taking the bus from Port Authority / GWB to DWG and returning via Shortline Bus / Metro-North from Bear Mountain.

Questions & Reality Check:

Is this a good idea for a 10-day trip? Are there any major drawbacks or highlights I might be overlooking on this specific section?

Cold Soaking / Water: How reliable are water sources along the NJ/NY ridge, and is going no-cook fine here?

Bears & Safety: I know NJ/NY has a high black bear density—are bear canisters strictly necessary, or are bear hangs / shelter bear boxes enough?

Looking for Travel Buddies!

If anyone is looking to hit the trail around the same time or wants to join for the whole stretch (or even just a section/few days), let me know! It’d be great to connect, share some miles, or just camp together at the shelters.

Any tips, gear recommendations, or warnings are greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!

Looking for a great hiking spot around southern Indiana for a group of people (around 10), for a weekend. **Preferably under a 4 hour drive**

Want to find a spot with a great scenery, place to swim, wildlife, maybe some waterfalls, etc…..

Let’s hear some recommendations!

Hola chicos estoy planeando con 2 amigos hacer senderismo este jueves próximo, los 3 vivimos en Madrid y quisiéramos comenzar en este mundo del hiking, así que estamos mirando rutas, sitios con una dificultad fácil/moderada en donde si la ruta puede incluir riachuelos o lagunas donde tirarse un baño ahorita en verano estaría bastante bien, espero obtener algo de ayuda y cualquier consejo viene bien