Our 2018 Oktoberfest hikers did not let a little rain dampen their spirits or shorten their hike at Bear Mountain in upstate New York this month. The group unanimously chose to make the full 10 mile hike from Anthony Wayne Recreation Area to the summit of Bear Mountain through the mist and fog. Not a single complaint about the distance or the drizzle, even from the four children who also walked the entire distance! According to volunteer hike organizer Donna Chapman, everyone was in “great spirits and smiles,” making for a really fun day.

Along the way, they collected trash on the trail, netting two giant garbage bags full! Now that’s what we call Leave No Trace!

The hike ended back at the Anthony Wayne Rec Area just in time to enjoy some German food, drink and music at the Oktoberfest celebration. A great way to end a great hike!

Thanks to volunteers Donna Chapman and Brandon Parenteau for organizing and leading the hike. Thanks to the hikers and their sponsors who raised nearly $650 to help offset our operating costs!

Many of this year’s hikers were already looking forward to joining the Oktoberfest hike again next year. And we hope you can, too! It is a lot of fun for a great cause.

Thanks to Brandon, Donna, and Pat Zinna for the great photos!