Exercise. Fresh air. Scenery. Wildlife. Good conversation. Afterward, a good night's sleep.

Hikes range from easy to moderate to hard, and from half-day to full-day. Some involve climbing a mountain. On top, weather permitting, there might be a grand view. Other, less demanding hikes traverse deep woods and bring you to remote ponds, lakes, and wetlands. Ed will be delighted to design a hike that gives your muscles the work-out you want--no more, no less--and makes your day one to remember.

When hiking, boots, a raincoat, layers to keep you warm if it gets cold, and a hat are musts. Bring your own or purchase from local Adirondack merchants who will be glad to have your business. Excellent sources of hiking stuff in Ed's neck of the woods are The Mountaineer in Keene Valley, Eastern Mountain Sports in Lake Placid, and Blue Line Sporting Goods in Saranac Lake.