I agree with Paddy_Crow. Of all the beautiful places in the US, why would you want to hike to NYC? To each his own, I guess. Of course, I could spend 2-3 weeks in Washington, DC going to all the museums.
Another alternative might be to hike part of the AT in New York.
Another option would be to go to Colorado and hike part of the Colorada Trail.


Check out www.trailjournals.com and you can read plenty about long distance hiking and the gear that is typically used.

Some of the journalist to read:
Bearpaw
Stumpknocker
Hammock Hanger
LiteShoe


Happy hiking,
Tango