Ruskaretki! Fall Foliage Hike in the Hudson Valley

Pack a picnic lunch, take the train out of the city, and enjoy a scenic hike along the Hudson River in peak fall foliage on the Arden Point and Glenclyffe hiking trail. FCF Board Member Oscar Eilitta Psychas will share some reflections on the connections to nature in Finnish culture. Finns call fall foliage ruska , and enjoy fall foliage hikes (or ruskaretki) in rural areas before the cold and bare trees of winter. He'll point out plants similar to those in Finnish forests and share excerpts of Finnish literature and cultural knowledge.

We'll stop by an art exhibition and for a quick pick-me-up at a waterfront restaurant before returning to the city.

Where: We will meet at Grand Central Station and take the Metro North Train to and from Garrison. We will hike the Arden Point and Glenclyffe trail, (4 miles/ ~2.5 hours walking).

When: We will meet at Grand Central Station's main hall (by the four faced clock) at 10:30 AM latest, so that we can catch the 10:50 AM Metro North Train to Garrison. If you are driving yourself, please arrive at 12:00 PM at the Garrison Metro North station. Please see detailed event schedule below.

Who: Any Finns and friends of Finland interested in a fun excursion out of the city connecting with nature together! Please note that the hike will be strenous at times and is not wheelchair or stroller accessible. Minors (<18) may only attend with their parent/legal guardian.

What to bring: Your own picnic lunch, filled water bottle, shoes for hiking uneven natural terrain, warm layer, rain jacket or poncho, plus your own train tickets! Be prepared for variable and potentially cold or rainy weather.

Please note all participants will be asked to complete a liability waiver before starting the hike. They can email it ahead of time or complete it at the event. Parents/guardians must sign a waiver for any of their children in attendance.

Schedule

10:30 AM: Meet at the main hall of Grand Central Station by the four-faced clock. Make sure to be on time so we can catch the train!

10:50 AM: Board the Metro North Train to Garrison. Enjoy fall scenery on the ride up.

12:10 PM: Arrive at station and start the hike-- the trailhead is right by the platform. During the hike, we'll stop for a picnic lunch by the river.

2:45 PM: Hike complete. Walk 10 minutes for an informal visit to the Garrison Art Center to see a visit exhibit by Susan Magnus reflecting on memory, loss, and family.

4:00 PM: Arrive at Dolly's restaurant to relax together and enjoy drinks and snacks. We will have a group of us at the restaurant until 6:00 PM, but since it is right by the station people have the option to leave when they need on the 4:24 or 5:11 PM train as well.

6:06 PM: Last of the group catches a train back to Grand Central Station.

7:30 PM: Arrival of final group at Grand Central Station.

Host or Publisher Finland Center Foundation