Welcome to episode 230! This week, David Perez joins us to talk about the rapidly growing NYDownstate28 Challenge. We dive into how the idea came to life, what hikers can expect, and why tackling a brand-new challenge can be such a rewarding way to explore some incredible trails. We also break down the viral (and completely fake) mountain lion attack story from the Devil's Path, recap several recent search-and-rescue incidents, and discuss a family out West making headlines after selling their farm to create a critical wildlife corridor for mountain lions. Make sure to subscribe on your favorite platform, share the show, donate if you feel like it… or just keep tuning in. I'm just grateful you're here. And as always... VOLUNTEER!!!!

Links for the Podcast: https://linktr.ee/ISLCatskillsPodcast, Donate a coffee to support the show! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ITLCatskills, Like to be a sponsor or monthly supporter of the show? Go here! - https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ITLCatskills/membership

Thanks to the sponsors of the show: Outdoor chronicles photography - https://www.outdoorchroniclesphotography.com/, Trailbound Project - https://www.trailboundproject.com/, Camp Catskill - https://campcatskill.co/, Another Summit - https://www.guardianrevival.org/programs/another-summit

Links: Far and High Outdoors Co, NYDownstate28 Challenge, Taconic 12er, 

Volunteer Opportunities: Trailhead stewards for 3500 Club -https://www.catskill3500club.org/trailhead-stewardship, Catskills Trail Crew - https://www.nynjtc.org/trailcrew/catskills-trail-crew, NYNJTC Volunteering - https://www.nynjtc.org/catskills, Catskill Center - https://catskillcenter.org/, Catskill Mountain Club - https://catskillmountainclub.org/about-us/, Catskill Mountainkeeper - https://www.catskillmountainkeeper.org/ 

Post Hike Brews and Bites - Downstate Newburgh,  Sloop Brewing, 1911, Equilibrium IPA, 

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