Hiking the Big Apple

Almost exactly a year ago today, I was approached by a publisher to author a book. As a former nonfiction editor, I spent close to a decade helping dozens of writers develop their titles, and occasionally I wondered about my own aptitude for writing something more than a few thousand words in length. Of course, none of the projects I envisioned ended up becoming my first book. Instead, my career as an author will begin on April 1st (no, I'm not kidding) with Best Hikes Near New York City. 

In the end, it took the better part of six months to research, map, photograph, and transcribe the notes I scribbled on the trail. My blog certainly suffered for a while, and I saw less of my friends. It turns out a ten-mile walk in the woods at the height of summer isn't everyone's idea of a good time. Looking back though, I'm still glad I took the job and I hope I've produced a guide that's useful and unique. If you're going to be in the New York area later this year, watch this space for news about guided trips* to a few of my favorite parks. 

*Please note that any and all hikes I lead will absolutely end at a bar serving pints of local craft beer.