Summer in New York means escaping the city’s heat for serene trails and cool lakes. But instead of endlessly scrolling social media, why not let AI help plan your nature getaway? Here’s how I used ChatGPT to uncover underrated hikes—and the pros and pitfalls of relying on AI for travel planning.
Step 1: Craft the Perfect AI Prompt
To get useful suggestions, feed ChatGPT specific details:
- Your location (e.g., “near NYC”).
- Fitness level (easy/moderate/challenging).
- Preferences (e.g., “near water,” “less crowded,” “close to a quaint town”).
Example prompt:
*”Suggest secret or lesser-known hiking trails in New York or New Jersey for a summer day trip. I want a 1-hour hike, preferably near a swimmable lake or river, with minimal tourists.”*
Step 2: Evaluate ChatGPT’s Suggestions
The AI recommended spots like:
- Constitution Marsh (scenic Hudson Valley wetlands).
- Apshawa Preserve (underrated NJ trails with waterfalls).
But it missed well-known gems (e.g., Greenwood Lake), admitting the oversight when questioned.
Lesson:
AI is great for initial ideas, but cross-check with local knowledge (or a spouse who grew up nearby!).
Step 3: Ask for Visuals (But Verify!)
ChatGPT generated photos of trails and lakes—though some were out of season (fall foliage instead of summer).
Better alternatives:
- Google Maps satellite view for real-time terrain.
- AllTrails or Instagram geotags for crowd-sourced pics.
Step 4: Dig Deeper with AI
Refine your search by asking:
- “Which trail has the best swimming spots?”
- “How to prepare for ticks/poison ivy?”
- “Can this be turned into a weekend camping trip?”
ChatGPT offered practical tips, like clothing and repellent advice—but again, verify with official park websites.
The Verdict: AI’s Role in Trip Planning
Pros:
- Fast brainstorming for off-the-radar spots.
- Personalized recs based on your past chats (e.g., spiritual goals → trails near temples).
Cons:
- Hallucinations: May invent or overlook locations.
- Generic visuals: Often pulls outdated/irrelevant images.
Final Tip:
Use AI for inspiration, then research thoroughly via Google, local forums, or apps like AllTrails.
