Bare Mountain Night Hike & Campfire
For many students, this short but steep trek is the first step towards earning their Pok-O Patch. From the bare spot, there is a beautiful view of Long Pond with the Adirondack Mountains in the distance. While there, students learn about the history of the area. On moonlit nights, flashlights are not necessary. We often see at least one shooting star during our traditional five minutes of silence. This trip is typically followed by a campfire with marshmallows and a story or song.
Social Studies Standard 3.1-2; Physical Education Standard 1

Sugarloaf Mountain Hike
Sugarloaf, which lies just west of Long Pond, is the second highest Pok-O-Patch peak. The moderately steep trail traverses several different habitats. Students will pass through a red pine plantation, wetlands, young and old deciduous forests, a hemlock forest, and an open mixed deciduous forest before you reach the summit. The view from the top encompasses the farming community of Reber, Lake Champlain, and some of the Adirondack High Peaks.
Social Studies Standard 3; Physical Education Standard 1

Poke-O-Moonshine Mountain Hike
At 2,293 feet, Poke-O-Moonshine, is both the tallest and most difficult of the four Pok-O-Patch mountains, and is usually the last climbed. The trail rises over 1,000 vertical feet in 1.2 mi., past a lean-to and the ruins of a ranger’s cabin, to the historic fire tower on the summit. After students have climbed Bare, Rattlesnake, Sugarloaf, and Poke-O, they are awarded the prestigious Pok-O-Patch by reciting an oath, typically in front of their peers during their final meal at the Center.
Social Studies Standard 3.1-2; Physical Education Standard 1

Sunrise Hike up Rattlesnake Mountain
Sure to be an unforgettable experience, this adventure begins with wake up around 4:00 AM, depending on the season. The hikers will be driven to the base of the mountain before setting out to climb the peak by headlamp. Groups that beat the clock are rewarded by a spectacular sunrise over the Green Mountains. A daylight descent allows for the group to be back before breakfast.
Social Studies Standard 3.1-2

Adirondack High Peak Hikes
A powerful experience for many, a day spent in the Adirondack Wilderness is the best way to introduce students to the natural beauty of the Eastern forests. Many of the 46 Adirondack High Peaks (over 4,000’) can be climbed in a single day. Cascade and Phelps are good choices for younger, less experienced groups, while peaks such as Big Slide, Algonquin, or Giant offer stunning views and solid challenges for stronger students. Hurricane, Rooster Comb, and Noonmark Mountains, while slightly under the 4,000’ mark, also make for rewarding day trips. Hiking is a four-season activity for those who would like to learn how to snowshoe. Due to New York Department of Environmental Conservation regulations, groups are limited to 13 students, one chaperone, and one Pok-O instructor.
Physical Education Standard 1.

Adirondack Overnight
The best way to explore the Adirondacks, and an excellent vehicle for improving teamwork and building self-confidence. Some of the more remote and difficult High Peaks can only be accessed by overnight groups. Students are advised to bring their own sleeping bags, thermal mats, and frame packs, although the Center does have a moderate supply of rentals. Group gear will be provided. Typical PMOEC trips are one or two nights, but extended stays in the backcountry can be organized. The group limit in the Eastern High Peaks is eight people, although groups of up to twelve may camp in other Wilderness Areas.
Physical Education Standard 1