A hiker in the Hudson Valley recently had an experience he described as "magic" while on an epic 17-mile trek.

Even with snow and ice, New York animals continue their lives, and the lucky hiker not only came across a snowshoe hare and bobcat tracks, but some of the most impressively-preserved bear tracks as well. Video showed exactly how large these animals can get in comparison to humans.

A hiker in the Catskill Mountains recently shared an impressive video showing the size of local bear tracks (James Grady via Facebook)
A hiker in the Catskill Mountains recently shared an impressive video showing the size of local bear tracks (James Grady via Facebook)
loading...

Catskill Mountain Hiker Shares "Magic" Discoveries

"Incredible adventure in the Catskills yesterday", began a recent post in the Catskills Trail Conditions Facebook group. The post included beautiful details not only about trail and weather conditions, but of all the wildlife he encountered on his 8-hour adventure as well.... including LOTS of bear activity (below)

Massive Bear Tracks Found in the Catskill Mountains

"Bear tracks literally leading TO Cornell summit!", he shared along with the impressive video showing what many might describe as "too many" bear tracks for comfort. Luckily, the video included his hiking boots in frame as well, giving an impressive perspective on exactly how large New York's bears can get.

A bear was recently spotted stealing groceries in New Paltz, NY
A bear was recently spotted stealing groceries in New Paltz, NY (Cathy Fredrick via Facebook)
loading...

Bears Prepare for Hibernation in the Hudson Valley, NY

For many local animals this time of year marks the last opportunity to store up on calories for hibernation, and strategies can vary greatly. Homeowners in New Paltz, NY recently shared photos of a black bear doing their best Yogi impression by stealing groceries off of their porch (above).

WZOZ logo
Get our free mobile app

The best way to experience a bear is from a safe distance, although many Hudson Valley residents might argue that simply seeing their tracks is enough. Take a look at what happened when a bear visited SUNY New Paltz below.

Bear on Campus at SUNY New Paltz NY

On Thursday (June 23, 2022) this unassuming good-size black bear wandered onto campus and decided to climb a tree. The SUNY New Paltz Police along with the NYS DEC Police monitored the situation on-site. They were able to encourage the campus visitor to return home without incident.

Gallery Credit: Paty Quyn

More From WZOZ