Listed below are some of the resources I use in order to plan hikes. They are also great resources for hiking in the area, directions, mileage, trail reports, etc; I frequent these sites often and highly recommend them. These are some of my go to resources.
New Jersey
NJHiking.com – a great resource to the many trails in and around the New Jersey area. Many of my routes get planned using NJHiking.
Gone Hikin’ – A great blog chronicling trails in (and around) NJ with the owner’s dog, Brodie.
New York
Hike The Hudson Valley – a great resource for hikes in the Hudson Valley, extending into the Catskills.
Catskill Hiker – A huge resource on hiking the Catskills and nearby areas.
Other Resources
REI – Becoming a member gets you a dividend and access to some of the members-only sales. Also, there is usually a good selection of used gear at pretty good prices.
AllTrails – I use AllTrails to map my route when I’m on the trail. Further, I occasionally have to crack to open to see differences in the trails and what the trail map states. What’s nice is I get distance, elevation gained, and visual map of my route.
I’ll try to update the page as I add resources.