Touching the Earth: A Sangha Hike in the Woods

Touching the Earth is a day of practice held on the trail rather than in a meditation hall: a group hike through the woods of Harriman State Park, just over an hour from New York City, with time built in for sitting meditation, walking meditation, and sharing (time to speak together as a group). It's hosted by the Zen Center of New York City — Fire Lotus Temple and framed as an outing with the sangha, the Buddhist term for the practice community. The date is Saturday, October 31, 2026, and registration is $20.

The hike is the backbone of the day: about five miles at a moderate pace over rocky, hilly terrain, which is real trail walking rather than a stroll. The listing gives the shape of the day in broad strokes — hiking, with periods of sitting and walking meditation and time for sharing — but doesn't publish a detailed schedule, so if the timing matters to you, ask the center.

A few practical details haven't been published yet:

• Meeting point and transportation to the park
• What the $20 fee covers
• Who, if anyone, is leading the hike
• What to bring

Check the center's registration page for updates before signing up.