Secret Places
of Western New York
25 Scenic Hikes
Reedy Press 2022
Get a copy - or - give a copy!
$24.00 autographed copy.
Get ready for adventure!
Featured among the 192 pages in Secret Places of Western New York are 25 scenic hikes just waiting to be explored.
Discover why these trails are special enough to be deemed Secret Places. Could it be their serene ambiance, hidden caves, ancient spirits, or towering waterfalls? Each hike has its own unique combination of features to pique the interest of lifetime locals and visitors alike.
Take it from the experts who have documented every step of their journeys throughout Western New York to clue you in on the countless hidden treasures the region has to offer. You’ll be amazed at the natural gems that most people walk by not knowing they exist!
Whether you’re a casual wanderer or a master of the trails, there is bound to be a hike (or several!) for you within the Niagara, Buffalo, Rochester, and Southern Tier regions of New York.
Get a copy, or give a copy of Secret Places today!
Most buffalo
Many thanks to WGRZ - Channel 2, Buffalo for featuring "Secret Places of Western NewYork" on the April 6, 2022 airing of the Most Buffalo show!
We're especially grateful to Most Buffalo Co-host Kate Welshofer and Photojournalist Franco Ardito for a great interview with Jen and Bill!
We were struck by the thoughtful and artistic video presentation which helped to highlight the book and our mission to get people outside to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region!
It was really great that Kate and Franco could spend time with us, hiking a portion of chapter 13, Eighteen Mile Creek Gorge.
Go take a hike!
April 6, 2022: Watch Most Buffalo Co-host Kate Welshofer interviews Jennifer and Bill.
Meet the Authors
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Bruce Kershner
Bruce was a nationally-recognized and honored naturalist, ecologist, educator, and author prior to passing away in February 2007. He authored dozens of books, including Secret Places: Scenic Treasures of Western New York and Southern Ontario, which this 2022 version is based on. Learn more about Bruce.
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Jennifer Hillman
Jennifer is an outdoor enthusiast and nature hiking writer. She’s a seasoned marketing professional and loves being able to balance her career with being “out in the field” and “in the weeds” for real. You’re likely to find Jennifer and Bill enjoying the woods behind their home on Eighteen Mile Creek in Hamburg, New York.
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Bill McKeever
As the former Executive Director of the Buffalo Audubon Society, Bill worked with Bruce on environmental advocacy projects protecting the old-growth forests of DeVeaux Woods, Zoar Valley, and Allegheny State Park. Bill is an avid environmentalist, you can find him driving his electric car, checking his solar panels or planning out his garden.
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Courtney Grim, Photographer
Award winning photographer, videographer, and educator. Courtney’s 25 years experience in capturing nature’s beauty through the lens showcases the beautiful Secret Places of Western New York. Courtney is an avid hiker, sailor, and gear junkie.
Author Events
COME SEE US!
CHECK OUT OUR UPCOMING EVENTS.
Co-authors, Jennifer Hillman and Bill McKeever, are available to speak at your event or lead small group hiking tours of select Secret Places locations.
Book photographer Courtney Grim and Bruce's daughter, Libby Kershner, are available by special request.
Book signings: Easy traffic building event. Order your books through Reedy Press and we'll bring extra just in case. Authors will meet and greet guests and autograph books.
Author Talks: Jennifer Hillman and Bill McKeever are available for author talks. Here's a list of typical topics:
What's a Secret Place? And isn't it not so secret anymore?! 30-minute talk, 15-minute Q&A, optional book sale and signings after.
Bruce Kershner, Preserving a Legacy. 30-minute talk, 15-minute Q&A, optional book sale and signings after. Libby Kershner, Bruce's daughter, may join this presentation.
Secret Places Hiking Tour. Available with small groups to select Secret Places locations, including the Niagara Gorge Trail System, Eighteen Mile Creek Park, Griffis Sculpture Park, and more! Details will be planned out with host and co-authors.
Media Interviews; Yes! We love them! Let's talk about getting outdoors and the secret places of beautiful Western New York.
Reach out.
Tell us about your idea to have us come to your event or organization. We can customize our author talks and events to your specific needs.
Secret Places of Western New York: 25 Scenic Hikes is a great gift for employee wellness/onboarding and client gifts. If you are interested in bulk sales, please fill out the form and we’ll work with the publisher on your order.
Come see us at one of our upcoming events!