Appalachian Trail hiking tour from NYC: Stairway to Heaven

A steep climb to panoramic views, then a gentle boardwalk through marshlands

A guided hiking tour from New York City to the Appalachian Trail in New Jersey, combining two contrasting walks: the challenging ascent of Stairway to Heaven with sweeping views of Kittatinny Ridge and Delaware Water Gap, followed by a serene stroll along the nearly 1-mile Pochuck Boardwalk through wetlands. Your guide shares insights into local flora and fauna as you cross the elevated Pochuck Bridge and explore the protected ecosystem.

Step-by-step itinerary

Hiking Appalachian Trail highlights

• Meet at Pochuck Boardwalk trailhead
• Walk the Pochuck Boardwalk through wetlands
• Cross the Pochuck Bridge and take photos
• Hike up Stairway to Heaven trail
• Enjoy panoramic views at summit
• Stroll along the Boardwalk Trail

The experience

Six to eight hours covers two distinct hikes that balance intensity with recovery. You start at the Pochuck Boardwalk trailhead, where your guide leads you across the nearly 1-mile raised walkway: a protected route through wetlands that keeps the delicate ecosystem undisturbed below. From the boardwalk you spot native frogs, turtles, birds and sometimes deer, and the guide explains what you're seeing. The walk ends at the Pochuck Bridge, an elevated crossing over Pochuck Creek where the views open up and most people pause for photos.

The second half is the climb. Stairway to Heaven is a steep section of the Appalachian Trail famous for exactly that: the effort and the reward. At the summit, the views stretch across Kittatinny Ridge and down into Delaware Water Gap, one of the best vistas in New Jersey. It's the kind of overlook that justifies the exertion, and you'll have time to rest and take in the panorama. After that, the Boardwalk Trail offers a gentler descent through lush forest, a chance to recover while still moving through the landscape.

Transportation and guide are included. You're picked up from the New York City area in an air-conditioned vehicle and returned the same way. The operator offers the tour in English or Spanish, and children from age 10 are welcome. Bring water and snacks (lunch is not provided), and wear proper hiking boots. The terrain is uneven and the Stairway to Heaven section demands solid footing and moderate fitness.

What’s included

• Private transportation from the New York City area.
• an air-conditioned vehicle for the journey.
• a live guide in English or Spanish who shares insights into the local ecosystem and landscape.

Options for this experience

2 options

Overnight Stay AccommodationsGuide in English or Spanish · 16:00A private one-night stay at SkyLift Lodge, available only to guests who have booked our hiking tour. Pickup is included.

Appalachian Trail HikingGuide in English or Spanish · 09:00Hiking on the Appalachian Trail. Includes pickup.

You pick the guide language when booking.

You'll see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates and prices

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:00 and 16:00

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (18 to 70 years) · Child (10 to 17 years) · Under 10: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 3 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsNo refund if you cancel.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 6 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by SkyLift Adventure Tours NYC - Appalachian Trail and Hiking

Is this one for you?The six to eight hour duration fits a full day from New York City without an overnight commitment. If you want to combine a challenging summit hike with a gentler walk and learn about the ecosystem along the way, the two-trail structure gives you both: steep views and serene forest in one tour.

Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (10 to 17 years). Children under 10 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. No refund if you cancel.

What is Stairway to Heaven on the Appalachian Trail?

Stairway to Heaven is a steep, challenging section of the Appalachian Trail in New Jersey famous for its demanding ascent and the panoramic views from the summit. At the top, you see Kittatinny Ridge and Delaware Water Gap, one of the best overlooks in the region.

How long is the Pochuck Boardwalk?

The Pochuck Boardwalk is nearly 1 mile long, a raised wooden walkway that crosses through protected wetlands without disturbing the ecosystem. It ends at the Pochuck Bridge, an elevated crossing over Pochuck Creek.

What wildlife might I see on the boardwalk?

The wetlands are home to frogs, turtles, birds, and occasionally deer. Your guide will point out the local flora and fauna and explain the ecosystem as you walk.

What's included in the tour price?

Private transportation from the New York City area, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a live guide in English or Spanish are all included. Lunch is not provided, so bring snacks and water.