Hiking in Missoula, Montana

Steven Saslow retired from The Blackstone Group after helping build what was said to be the world’s largest hedge fund of fund for discretionary investing. Currently serving as a consultant and mentor at Blackstone, Steven Saslow has more time to travel out West and head to his favorite hiking destinations, including those around Missoula, Montana.

Located where three rivers converge, Missoula is ringed by seven wilderness areas in the northern Rockies, ideal for outdoor lovers. The city is noted for its trout fishing, and visitors can kayak and raft as well.

While the area offers numerous trail options, one way for hikers to get started is to take the Riverfront Trail, which can be accessed from downtown Missoula or the University of Montana (UM). The paved, flat path travels along the Clark Fork River on its south side, and after around one and a half miles, it becomes the Kim Williams Trail, a gravel path in between the river and Mount Sentinel. This trail is around two and a half miles and leads to other trails.

Another popular trail is the “M” Trail. Starting from the UM campus, there is a steep three-quarters-of-a-mile climb up Mount Sentinel, were a huge white “M” sign is located. Another mile takes the hiker to the top of the mountain, which offers a breathtaking view of the Clark Fork River, the Missoula Valley, and the remote mountains.

Hiking in Nature Minutes Outside of New York City

Steven Saslow is a retired former managing director of Blackstone, a New York City investment firm. Though he officially retired in 2007, Mr. Saslow still serves as a consultant with Blackstone. One of Steven Saslow’s hobbies is hiking; just outside New York City lies the Fort Lee Historic Park, a gateway to hundreds of miles of hiking trails.

Just on the New Jersey side of the George Washington Bridge, hiking enthusiasts will find the Shore Trail. The southern trailhead is located near the Fort Lee Historic Park’s visitor center. Instead of offering one hike, the Shore Trail offers multiple hikes suitable for hikers of all ages and skill levels. Hikes along the Shore Trail take hikers along the Hudson river, where you’ll pass multiple picnic areas.

More experienced hikers might prefer the aptly named Long Path, which goes all the way from Fort Lee, New Jersey to Altamont, New York, outside of Albany. Stretching over 350 miles, you will have plenty to explore and see, and the ability to take the hike as far as you want. Early in the hike, you will pass through the Greenbrook Sanctuary woodland preserve and multiple lookout points with spectacular natural views, and views of New York City.

Hiking Lake Placid’s Adirondacks

A consultant for the Blackstone Group in New York, Steven Saslow advises on macro, fixed-income, commodity and emerging market investment strategies. Away from the Blackstone Group, Steven Saslow enjoys the outdoors and hiking through Lake Placid’s Adirondacks.

Home to the 46 High Peaks Wilderness area, the Adirondacks feature summits higher than 4,000 feet. Specifically, the Lake Placid region offers picturesque waterfalls, historic sites, and panoramic views atop its many peaks.

Hikers interested in a memorable water experience may head to High Falls Gorge, where the Ausable River creates 600 feet of cascading waterfalls. Open year-round, the trail, which features a variety of crossing bridges and platforms to reach the destination, allows hikers to set their own pace.

To enjoy a view of the High Peaks, visitors often trek through the south side of Mount Van Hoevenberg. The 4.4-mile path consists of level terrain, until hikers reach the wooded hillside, which requires a simple climb upwards to open ledges. From there, individuals can take in views of the High Peaks to the south.