Top 10 Things To Do This Summer

10. Country Barbecue

This Sunday (May 27), kick off Summer 2012 by joining 1,000 supporters of local conservation at a beautiful Columbia County farm for a barbecue featuring local food, an array of wines, and locally brewed beer with live entertainment and educational activities.

9. Pick-Your-Own Strawberries

Strawberries are delicious, juicy, and local! Plus, they are packed with healthy antioxidants. Thompson Finch Farm in Ancram and The Berry Farm in Chatham are local favorites and they are planning to have an early season, possibly as early as late May.

8. Transit of Venus

During the sunset on June 5, Venus will be crossing in front of the sun. Make sure you wear special protective eye wear. CLC will be providing solar shades to participants in the June 5 Full Moon Walk & Paddle at the Ooms Conservation Area at Sutherland Pond. Solar shades will also be available at the CLC Store.

7. Farmers Markets

Support your local taste buds by picking out some fresh food at one of the many farmers markets and farm stands, or join one of the CSA farms for a full season of fruits and vegetables.

6. Cycling

Looking for a summer breeze? Bike downhill. Whether it’s an epic tour of Columbia County or a jaunt down the street, it’s great to feel the power of your own locomotion.

Don’t have a bike? Rent one from Steiner’s in Hudson for $25/day. Get takeout from one of the many eateries and then bike to the waterfront park, Greenport Conservation Area, or Harrier Hill Park for a picnic.

5. Swimming

Beat the heat and take a dip. You might already have a favorite swimming hole. If you don’t have one, consider Copake Lake, Crellin Community Park, Oakdale Lake, Palantine Park, Lake Taghkanic State Park, or Taconic State Park.

Note: swimming is not permitted at CLC Public Conservation Areas.

4. Ice Cream

Check out Samascott Orchards in Kinderhook or Lick in Hudson and weigh in which has the best ice cream in town.

3. Hiking

Start at the Harlem Valley Rail Trail’s northern terminus in Copake. Walk south to your heart’s content and dream of a not-so-distant future when the trail is extended to Hillsdale.

2. Boating

I’m on a boat! If you don’t have your own and can’t convince your friend’s cousin to lend you hers, rent one at Lake Taghkanic State Park.

1. Visit a Place You’ve Never Been

This summer is the time to check out that place you keep telling yourself you are going to visit. Need some ideas? Columbia County Outdoors has 45 locations for outdoor activities.