Reeves Brook Loop vs. Diamond Mountain Trail via transit from NYC

Hi everyone,

I want to dedicate a full day trip to Harriman State Park , using public transportation from Manhattan.

We are intermediate/experienced hikers and we are currently debating between two options:

  1. Reeves Brook Loop Trail (6 km)
  2. Diamond Mountain Trail (8.2 km)

For someone looking for the best combination of scenic views, lakes, waterfall, streams and a classic Autumn forest vibe, which one would you recommend? (or there are any other?)

Also, what is the best, most reliable way to reach the trailheads for these specific hikes using public transit (train/bus) from Manhattan?

Should we embarked at toxedo station?

Thank you so much for your help!

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u/Financial-Scale274 — 10 days ago

Best nature-focused day trip from Madrid via public transit for an 18-year-old? ⛰️

Hi everyone,

My 18-year-old daughter and I are visiting Madrid and we want to dedicate one full day to a day trip outside the city using public transportation (train or bus).

She deeply prefers raw nature, beautiful landscapes, hiking trails, and dramatic viewpoints, over city shopping, crowded plazas, or art museums. She loves that classic, magical "old-world Europe" feel but wants the day to be focused around scenic outdoor walks.

We heard about Toledo and Segovia, but we are completely open to any other hidden gems, mountain villages, or regional parks within 1 hour of Madrid that deliver a jaw-dropping nature experience.

Which destination would you recommend for the ultimate father-daughter nature day trip? Any specific trail names or transit tips would be amazing!

>Muchas gracias for your local insights!

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u/Financial-Scale274 — 11 days ago

Beautiful Harriman State Park day hike via train from NYC (no car) - Local advice needed! 🥾🌲

Hi everyone!

My daughter (18) and I are visiting this October . We are staying in Brooklyn and plan to take a day trip to Harriman State Park using strictly public transportation (no rental car).

We are experienced hikers and looking for a challenging, active trail (we love great 360 views, amazing scenery. lakes, wateralls, rivers...).

From our research, we plan to take the NJ Transit / Metro-North train from Penn Station and get off at Sloatsburg Station, then take a short Uber to Reeves Meadow Visitor Center.

We would love to get your local expertise:

  1. Is Sloatsburg to Reeves Meadow the best transit route for challenging trails, or is there a better station/drop-off point we missed?
  2. Which specific loop or trail would you recommend from Reeves Meadow for high energy, fun , and beautiful fall views?
  3. Any important safety tips for hiking Harriman in mid-October without a car (cell service, Uber availability for the ride back to the station in the afternoon, etc.)?

We really appreciate your help and can't wait to explore your beautiful trails!

Thank you,

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u/Financial-Scale274 — 19 days ago

How reliable are contactless (NFC) ATMs for international digital wallets?

>Hi everyone,
I’m traveling to NYC soon. I only have a virtual multi-currency prepaid card loaded into my digital wallet (Apple Pay / Google Pay) and I do not have a physical plastic card for this specific account.
I might need to withdraw some cash during my trip. How common and reliable are contactless (NFC / Tap-to-withdraw) ATMs for international/foreign digital wallets?Thanks in advance for the local insights!

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u/Financial-Scale274 — 20 days ago

First time in NYC: Pod Times Square vs. Pod Williamsburg

>my 18-year-old daughter and I are visiting NYC for the first time this October for an intense 8-night trip. We are choosing between two locations:
Is the convenience of Midtown Manhattan worth the extra cost for a first-time trip, or should we choose the vibe of Williamsburg? Thanks!

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u/Financial-Scale274 — 1 month ago