Recently, on an early spring morning, a group of 20 athletic men and women gathered just north of West Milford, where the Appalachian Trail meets Sterling Forest. The hike is said to be one of the toughest and most scenic in the area, climbing six peaks in less than nine miles. It is a WWW Challenge Hike, no ordinary walk in the woods. After a few words from the leader, the group set a quick pace, climbing straight up Fitzgerald Falls to breath-taking views on top of Sterling Ridge. A mature buck and several hawks were spotted along the way. A few peaks later, the group stopped for lunch at Little Dam Lake a place so peaceful it could be in Maine’s 100-mile wilderness and the stresses of life seemed far away. As the end of the hike nears, the tired hikers spot their cars 700 feet below, and are delighted to be descending “Agony Grind,” rather than climbing up it. Led by New Jersey Audubon/Weis Ecology Center volunteer Don Weise, the WWW Hiking Club has been taking people on fast-paced, challenging mini-adventures since 1996. A unique fusion of natural experience, physical challenge and outdoor adventure, the hikes serve as an alternative cross-training exercise. Men and women participate in WWW Challenge hikes to improve fitness, strength and agility, meet new people and get to know the local scenery of New York and northern New Jersey. Adults and teens with strong legs and good cardiovascular fitness are invited to check out the next monthly Challenge Hike on Sunday, April 9. Participants should dress for the weather and bring plenty of water or sports drink. The terrain is steep and the pace is fast. Cost to hike is $8 with a $3 discount for NJ Audubon Society members. 973-835-2160.