Saugerties Lighthouse

Posted on August 16, 2022

August 16, 2022 – Saugerties, NY

Difficulty: Easy

Length: Approximately 1 mile

Max elevation: 19 ft. – total elevation gain approximately 30 ft.

Route type: Out and back

Map: None available

Trailhead parking: Ruth Reynolds Glunt Nature Preserve – 168 Lighthouse Dr, Saugerties, NY 12477

Outdoor portable toilets are available for public use at the trailhead and lighthouse dock.

Please Note ~ Portions of the Lighthouse Trail experience mild tidal flooding on a twice-daily basis. Any high tide of 4.0 feet or higher may cover portions of the trail. Tides rise and fall at a rate of nearly 1/2 foot per hour. Allow enough time before and after high tide time for the trail to clear. For example, a high tide of 5.0 feet will cover the trail for 2 hours before the time of high tide and remain for 2 hours afterwards. To find out what time high and low tide will occur on a particular day, consult the Tide Table.

Overview:

The Saugerties Lighthouse, also known as the Saugerties Light, is a lighthouse on the Hudson River north of Saugerties, New York. A landmark beacon on the Hudson River, the Saugerties Lighthouse is a venerable aid to navigation, constructed in 1869 at the mouth of the Esopus Creek. The Saugerties Lighthouse Conservancy maintains the Lighthouse and adjacent lands for the enjoyment of the public.

Saugerties Lighthouse

The restored, red-brick Lighthouse offers overnight Bed & Breakfast accommodations, public tours and special events. Furnished as it may have looked in the early 20th century, the Lighthouse contains a small museum, gift shop, parlor, kitchen, keepers’ quarters, and two guest bedrooms. The operational light-tower offers a panoramic view of the Hudson River Valley and Catskill Mountains.

Saugerties Lighthouse

The Lighthouse can be reached via the half-mile nature trail at the end of Lighthouse Drive in the village of Saugerties, New York.

Saugerties Lighthouse

History:

Two previous lighthouses in Saugerties were constructed in 1835 and 1850. The 1835 lighthouse was destroyed by fire in 1848 and it appears that the 1850 lighthouse was replaced by the current lighthouse.

Historical Marker – Saugerties Lighthouse

In 1867, Congress appropriated $25,000 for construction of the present lighthouse. Construction on the current lighthouse began in 1868 and it began operating a year later. Atop the stone remnants of the original man-made island, you will now find the Riverside Deck, where you can also view the fog bell from 1923.

Fog Bell from 1923

The Saugerties Lighthouse was taken out of service in 1954. The building was sealed up and left to deteriorate, which it quickly did. A decade later, the Coast Guard planned to demolish the vandalized and dilapidated lighthouse, when in stepped Ruth Reynolds Glunt, wife of Chester B. Glunt, a former Coast Guard light attendant, stationed at Turkey Point near Saugerties. Mrs. Glunt, a longtime friend of many lighthouse keepers along the Hudson River, carried a passion for saving lighthouses and mounted a campaign to halt the demolition. Through her efforts and those of architect Elise Barry, the structure was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. The preserve which the trail passes through, is named in her honor.

Lighthouse Trail – Ruth Reynolds Glunt Nature Preserve

After extensive fund-raising and restoration, the lighthouse was officially recommissioned as an aid to navigation in 1990. The B&B was established not long after. It is the only Hudson River lighthouse which welcomes guests overnight.

The Saugerties Lighthouse Conservancy was established in 1985 with the mission to restore and maintain the lighthouse. The following year the conservancy was able to purchase the lighthouse and surrounding wetlands for $1. The conservancy received a building on the verge of collapse, but managed in just a few years, to turn it into a beautifully restored lighthouse.

Roughly 10,000 old bricks, which had crumbled after being penetrated by moisture, were replaced. The lantern room was removed and refurbished. Stairs, handrails, floors, and walls were completely reconstructed. To top of the transformation, a solar powered light installed in the lantern room by the Coast Guard was activated on August 4, 1990.

The Walk:

Check the tide chart that is posted before proceeding into the preserve, unless you don’t mind getting your feet wet.

Lighthouse Trail – Ruth Reynolds Glunt Nature Preserve

Follow the gravel path which soon gives way to wooden footbridges and boardwalks before reverting back to gravel.

Lighthouse Trail – Ruth Reynolds Glunt Nature Preserve

Soon, the trail passes a tidal marsh with views of the Hudson River to the north.

Lighthouse Trail – Ruth Reynolds Glunt Nature Preserve

After traversing another boardwalk, the trail crosses a sandy area with more views north of the river.

Lighthouse Trail – Ruth Reynolds Glunt Nature Preserve

A short distance later, another boardwalk appears and you may be able to spot the tower of the lighthouse peeking over the tall grass.

Lighthouse Trail – Ruth Reynolds Glunt Nature Preserve

In just under a 1/2 mile from the start, the trail reaches the Saugerties Lighthouse.

Saugerties Lighthouse

Proceed ahead on the floating dock to get closer to the lighthouse.

Floating Dock – Saugerties Lighthouse

Saugerties Lighthouse

Behind the lighthouse is the Riverside Deck. A nice place to stop to take a break and have a snack (if you brought one with you).

Riverside Deck – Saugerties Lighthouse

On the Riverside Deck, there is a seating area where you can enjoy the nice views of the lighthouse and the Hudson River itself.

Riverside Deck – Saugerties Lighthouse

In November of 2011, a crew of volunteers tackled the herculean task of moving the three-thousand pound bronze bell into position on the Riverside Deck.

Fog Bell from 1923

The Saugerties Lighthouse was built on a circular granite crib, with a depth of twelve feet and a diameter of sixty feet, that rests on fifty-six pilings sunk into the riverbed and topped with three layers of six-inch timbers. The two-story lighthouse has twenty-inch-thick natural colored brick cavity walls.

Saugerties Lighthouse

The sixth-order Fresnel lens from the original lighthouse were relocated to the new building, in the 46-foot tower. An automated, solar-powered LED was installed 1990.

Saugerties Lighthouse

When you are done enjoying your time here, retrace your steps on the Lighthouse Trail, back to the parking area, where the hike began.

Floating Dock – Saugerties Lighthouse

Lighthouse Trail – Ruth Reynolds Glunt Nature Preserve

Review:

A very scenic walk through a pretty nature preserve, with the payoff being the historic Hudson River lighthouse. The parking area is small and there is no other parking available. This is a great spot for a leisurely walk anytime of year, as long as it’s not High Tide.

Pros:

Historic Saugerties Lighthouse, Hudson River, scenic landscape.

Cons:

Small parking area, Interior of lighthouse is only accessible by occasional tours or renting it as a B&B.

Sources:

Boston Mine Short Loop – Harriman State Park

Posted on July 27, 2022

July 24, 2022 – Southfields, NY

Difficulty: Easy – Moderate

Length: Approximately 3 miles

Max elevation: 1,131 ft. – total elevation gain approximately 375 ft.

Route type: Lollipop Loop

Buy Maps (Paper & Avenza): Harriman-Bear Mountain Trails Map #119

Free Web Map: Harriman State Park Trail Map 2017

Free Avenza App Map: Harriman State Park Trail Map 2017

Trailhead parking: 1369 Kanawauke Rd, Southfields, NY, 10975

Gravel parking lot – no bathrooms on site

Overview:

There are over 20 known mines in Harriman State Park and they are always interesting places to hike to. The Boston Mine is situated within a belt of magnetite which is referred to as the Greenwood group of mines. it is located on the Dunning Trail, about three-quarters of a mile north of County Route 106 and a short distance to the east of an old woods road known as the Island Pond Road. According to historian James M. Ransom, the Boston Mine was worked around 1880. The ore extracted from this mine was sent to the Clove Furnace at Arden, New York to be smelted.

Boston Mine – Harriman State Park

Trails Overview:

Please Note: Trail distances denoted below are in relation to this hike only and not the total distance of the trails.

White Bar Trail (horizontal white bar – 1 mile) ~ The White Trail descends from Car Pond Mountain and travels through the Hikers Parking Lot on CR 106, crosses the road and heads north through a wide valley. The trail runs primarily along an old woods road that narrows to a footpath in certain places. In areas where the trail becomes extremely narrow, it is slightly overgrown. The trail is well marked with the horizontal white bars and some of the older blazes have “W-B” written on them.

White Bar Trail – Harriman State Park

Dunning Trail (yellow – 0.62 mile) ~ The Dunning Trail runs southeast to northwest, connecting the White Bar Trail to Island Pond Road. The trail runs over undulating terrain, soon descending to the left of the Boston Mine just before reaching Island Pond Road. The trail is well marked in most places.

Dunning Trail – Harriman State Park

Nurian Trail (vertical white blazes – 0.5 mile) ~ The Nurian Trail is coaligned briefly with Island Pond Road as it heads south, then leaves the road and continues on a footpath through dense thickets of mountain laurel, crossing a narrow ridge in a stand of hemlocks. It joins the White Bar Trail for about 525 feet before leaving to the left. The trail is well marked with vertical white blazes. The trail is narrow in some areas where you may come in contact with some of the overgrowth.

Nurian Trail – Harriman State Park

Hike Overview:

On a day with heat and air advisories, I wanted to do an easy hike with minimal elevation gain. I have hiked this area several times and am familiar with it. With some connecting trails and woods roads in the vicinity, there are numerous options for length, level of difficulty and routes to take. I decided to play it by ear depending how hot it got during the hike. This was the end result, a moderately easy 3 mile loop that consisted of a walk in the woods, with a brief stop at the Boston Mine.

I wore shorts on this hike instead of the usual convertible pants and soon regretted it. Some sections of the White Bar and Nurian Trails were slightly overgrown and brushing up against the tall grass that overlapped the trail was a little annoying. We also saw bear scat three different times, once on each of the three trails that we hiked. Since we started the hike at about 8am on a Sunday morning, I cleared a lot of the spider webs from the trails with my face.

This hike was a counterclockwise lollipop loop beginning at the Hikers Trailhead Parking on CR 106.

As shown on the elevation graph, just some minor ups and downs on this hike.

elevation profile – Boston Mine Short Loop

The Hike:

From the parking area, cross the road and bear left onto the White Bar Trail, blazed with white horizontal rectangles (some of which may be marked with the letters “W-B”). The trail parallels the road for about 500 feet, then turns right, crosses a stream on a metal culvert, and continues on a woods road. A short distance beyond, it bears right at a fork, crosses a stream on rocks, and continues along a grassy woods road.

Hikers Trailhead Parking on CR 106

White Bar Trail – Harriman State Park

The White Bar Trail was first marked in 1921-22 by the Boy Scouts.

White Bar Trail – Harriman State Park

In a quarter mile, the white-blazed Nurian Trail joins from the right (both trails are blazed white, but the Nurian blazes are vertical, rather than horizontal). Continue ahead on the woods road for about 500 feet to where the two trails split. The Nurian Trail which veers left, will be your return route, but for now, stay to the right to remain on the White Bar Trail, which continues ahead on the woods road.

White Bar Trail – Harriman State Park

In 1922, this area was the site of the Boy Scouts’ Camp Deerslayer, a part of their White Bar Trail system. In 1926, Camp Deerslayer was moved to Parker Cabin Hollow.

bear right to remain on the White Bar Trail

The White Bar Trail heads north through a wide valley. The trail becomes a narrow footpath in places. In areas where the trail becomes extremely narrow, it is slightly overgrown. The White Bar Trail crosses an intermittent stream on rocks, climbs briefly then levels off.

stream crossing White Bar Trail

White Bar Trail – Harriman State Park

After turning sharp right, the White Bar Trail descends gradually then climbs a little before leveling off again.

White Bar Trail – Harriman State Park

Approximately 1.1 miles from the trailhead, the White Bar Trail reaches a T-intersection with the yellow-blazed Dunning Trail. Turn left and follow the yellow blazes in a westerly direction. The Dunning Trail soon descends into a valley, passing a large cliff along the way. The trail then climbs to a ridge, from where it descends to the base of the Boston Mine.

turn left on Dunning Trail

Dunning Trail – Harriman State Park

Black Bears often overturn rocks to scavenge for insects.

Dunning Trail – Harriman State Park

Ore tailings near Boston Mine.

ore dump near the Boston Mine

This mine is a large open cut into the hillside that is partially filled with water. It is reached by a short path to the right of the trail. It was last worked around 1880.

Boston Mine – Harriman State Park

The mine entrance is usually quite wet, with a water-filled pit at the northern end. Please exercise caution in the vicinity of the mine and do not approach the water-filled pit.

Boston Mine – Harriman State Park

The mine opening consists of a large open cut, about 100 feet long, which extends north to south within a low ridge. At its northern end, the open cut becomes a shaft which extends into the rock ridge for about 30 feet.

Boston Mine – Harriman State Park

When you are done checking out this interesting historical feature, return to the Dunning Trail and continue ahead for another 150 feet, where the Dunning Trail reaches Island Pond Road and turns left. Head south on Island Pond Road and in a short distance when the yellow-blazed Dunning Trail turns right, continue straight ahead. A short distance later the Nurian Trail, which comes in from the right and follows Island Pond Road briefly before turning left, leaving the woods road. Turn left on the white-blazed Nurian Trail.

Dunning Trail – Harriman State Park

continue straight on Island Pond Road

Island Pond Road

turn left on Nurian Trail

The Nurian Trail descends gently on a footpath heading in a southerly direction through a dense thicket of mountain laurel. It soon crosses a narrow ridge in a stand of hemlocks. In about a 1/2-mile, the Nurian Trail comes to the junction with the White Bar Trail that you passed at the beginning of the hike.

Nurian Trail – Harriman State Park

When the Nurian Trail turns right and joins the White Bar Trail, turn right and follow the coaligned trails, now retracing your steps from the start of the hike.

Nurian Trail – Harriman State Park

Joint W-B/Nurian Trails – Harriman State Park

When the Nurian Trail leaves to the left, continue straight ahead to remain on the White Bar Trail and follow the horizontal white bars back to the parking area, where the hike began.

continue straight on White Bar Trail

White Bar Trail – Harriman State Park

turn left to remain on White Bar Trail

White Bar Trailhead – CR 106

Review:

A nice hike in some peaceful woods. I recommend long pants and/or bug spray during the warmer months. It seems that we broke trail that morning by the amount of spider webs I took to the face. We didn’t see anyone on the trails that we hiked, except for a pair near the trailhead right at the start. Boston Mine with its history, is a worthwhile destination on its own, and along with the scenic woods, makes for a few good hours spent outdoors.

Pros:

Boston Mine, glacial erratics and interesting rock formations, well marked trails, little to no foot traffic.

Cons:

Some road noise (mostly from motorcycles) from CR 106 can be heard the closer you are to the trailhead.

Take a hike!

Boston Mine Short Loop – Harriman State Park

Sources:

New York-New Jersey Trail Conference
Harriman State Park
Lenik, Edward J.. Iron Mine Trails . New York – New Jersey Trail Conference. Kindle Edition.
Myles, William J.; Chazin, Daniel. Harriman Trails: A Guide and History . New York – New Jersey Trail Conference. Kindle Edition.

Hook Mountain Summit via Upper Nyack Trail & Long Path

Posted on July 20, 2022

July 17, 2022 – Nyack, NY

Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous

Length: Approximately 3.7 miles

Max elevation: 722 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 910 ft.

Route type: Out and back

Buy Map (Paper & Avenza): Hudson Palisades Trails Map #110 (2018)

Trailhead parking: 698 North Broadway, Nyack, NY 10960

Fee: $10.00 per vehicle Day Use (in season) – Empire Pass Accepted

Ample parking is available – Restrooms on site

The park is open year-round, from 8am to dusk.

Overview:

This hike covers the recently relocated Upper Nyack Trail, which begins at river level in Nyack Beach State Park and ends at a junction with the Long Path on the way to the summit of Hook Mountain. I did the Upper Nyack Trail as part of a longer loop in 2016. At that time, the trail included a road walk. I wanted to update the 2016 hike, so I hiked the Upper Nyack Trail, and continued on to the summit on the Long Path. I then retraced my steps back to Nyack Beach State Park.

The old Upper Nyack trail, while useful, ran through some wet dark areas and also included a road walk. Thanks to the work of Trail Conference volunteers, the experience is now even more enjoyable. The Long Distance Trails Crew installed 351 stone steps, built 2,537 square feet of crib wall, and constructed 3,775 feet of sidehilled trail. Construction began in 2019. Though less than a mile in length, the technical work required to build a safe, sustainable route through such challenging conditions took almost 2 years to complete.

History:

The new and improved Upper Nyack Trail, opened to the public in June 2021 and was several years in the making. Its creation was made possible by the purchase of 30 acres of undeveloped land from the Marydell Faith and Life Center, adjacent to Nyack Beach and Hook Mountain state parks. The sloping property, which the religious order acquired in 1924, includes dense woodland and meadow stretching down to the Hudson River. The Trust for Public Land acquired the property, that was coveted for residential development, in 2017 for $3.1 million. The Trust for Public Land, a nonprofit conservation group, conveyed the land to the State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

Soon after the sale, work on the new trail began: A route for the trail was scouted, mapped, and proposed for approval to the Palisades Interstate Park Commission, who assumed management of the land once it was incorporated into Hook Mountain State Park. The trail was constructed along and through a steep slope of boulders that rolled down Hook Mountain.

Trail Overview:

The white-blazed Upper Nyack Trail, although just slightly longer than a mile, gains about 555 feet of elevation from the Hudson River to its terminus at a junction with the Long Path. It is well blazed and easy to follow. The trail begins at Nyack Beach State Park. The first section follows what was called the Zig Zag Trail, that leads uphill via switchbacks to the plateau. The Zig Zag Trail was probably once built to take people, horses, and equipment to the plateau, which was the working face of a major quarry that operated at the turn of the 19th century. The trail beginning, only steps from the bathhouse and parking lot of Nyack Beach State park, is marked with a sign and triple white blazes.

The trail crosses an asphalt road that leads to the plateau and then enters the woods on the new section of trail along the mountain base. The hiker is soon absorbed in the unique talus slope ecosystem formed by large boulders that have fallen from the exposed vertical face of the Hook. The path is shady in summer under relatively mature hardwoods. The trail winds up, down, and around the base and one quickly learns to appreciate the trail crew’s work. Without their steps, stairs, bridges, and packed earth, the way would be nearly impassable.

Hike Overview:

This hike follows the white-blazed Upper Nyack Trail to its terminus at a junction with the aqua-blazed Long Path. From there, the hike continues on the Long Path to the summit of Hook Mountain that provides panoramic views over the Lower Hudson River Valley and the Tappan Zee Bridge.

To continue on to complete the 6-mile loop, you can follow this guide to the summit of Hook Mountain and follow this GUIDE the rest of the way.

This is a straightforward out-and-back hike, beginning and ending at Nyack Beach State Park. The trail map is from 2018 and does not have the relocated section of the Upper Nyack Trail.

Upper Nyack Trail – Nyack Beach State Park

As you can see from the elevation graph, it’s a steep climb to the summit, gaining more than 900 feet of elevation.

elevation profile – Upper Nyack Trail

The Hike:

Proceed to a kiosk at the northern end of the parking area and continue north for 250 feet on the Hook Mountain Bike Path (also known as the River Trail). Here, a sign in a grassy area and three white blazes on the left mark the start of the Upper Nyack Trail. This white-blazed trail ascends on a dirt road, passing concrete foundations on the left that afford a view of the Hudson River, and continues uphill on switchbacks. After a level section, it joins a paved road for 175 feet, then turns right, climbs rock steps and continues along the side of Hook Mountain. This magnificent trail section, which weaves through huge rocks at the base of a talus slope, was constructed by the all-volunteer Long Distance Trails Crew of the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference.

Hook Mountain Bike Path – Nyack Beach State Park

turn left on Upper Nyack Trail

Upper Nyack Trail – Nyack Beach State Park

Tappan Zee Bridge from the Upper Nyack Trail

Upper Nyack Trail – Nyack Beach State Park

After about a mile, the trail crosses a stream on huge boulders, then begins a steady climb. The last section of the climb is mostly on rock steps. After climbing a long stone staircase, the Upper Nyack Trail ends at a junction with the aqua-blazed Long Path.

Upper Nyack Trail – Nyack Beach State Park

terminus of Upper Nyack Trail

Turn right onto the Long Path, which follows an old road. Built in the 1870’s, this road was planned to continue to the top of Hook Mountain, but it never was completed. Route 9W, which the old road briefly parallels, may be seen and heard through the trees above on the left. Soon, the old road curves away from Route 9W, and the trail narrows to a footpath, with views of the river through the trees. The trail then bears left and begins to climb rather steeply, then more moderately. As you get a little higher, views open up over Upper Nyack, the Hudson River and the Tappan Zee Bridge.

turn right on the Long Path

Long Path – Nyack Beach State Park

Just beyond, after curving to the left, the trail turns sharply right (avoid the unmarked path leading straight ahead) and climbs a steep, rocky slope, soon reaching the summit of Hook Mountain, with outstanding views over the Hudson River and the Tappan Zee Bridge. Rockland Lake may be seen to the north (through the trees), with the hills of Harriman State Park beyond. On a clear day, the New York City skyline is visible to the south. You’ll also notice several clumps of prickly pear cactus – the only native American cactus that grows east of the Rocky Mountains. You’ve climbed over 700 feet to reach this point, and you’ll want to take a break, while enjoying the views.

turn right on Long Path

Long Path – Nyack Beach State Park

As you near the summit, if you turn around you’ll be greeted with this west-facing view.

Long Path – Nyack Beach State Park

Hook Mountain summit.

Hook Mountain summit

View southeast from Hook Mountain summit.

view southeast from Hook Mountain summit

The Tappan Zee Bridge.

view of Tappan Zee Bridge from Hook Mountain summit

In the foreground, through the trees is Rockland Lake. In the background is the Hudson River. The ridge that runs from left to right between the lake and the river is the long ridge of Hook Mountain.

view northeast from Hook Mountain summit

Looking southwest towards New Jersey.

view southwest from Hook Mountain summit

Nyack end of the Tappan Zee Bridge, Piermont Pier, Piermont Marsh, Tallman Mountain and beyond.

Tappan Zee Bridge, Piermont Pier & marsh, Tallman Mountain

Tappan Zee Bridge with Tarrytown in the background.

Tappan Zee Bridge with Tarrytown in the background

Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse across the river.

When you are done enjoying the views, you can continue north on the Long Path or as we did, you can retrace your steps back down the mountain on the Long Path, turning left on the Upper Nyack Trail to the River Trail and to the parking lot at Nyack Beach State Park, where the hike began.

Long Path – Nyack Beach State Park

turn left on Upper Nyack Trail

Upper Nyack Trail – Nyack Beach State Park

Review:

A great hike via a well constructed and interesting trail. The majestic views over the Hudson River are a nice reward for the rigorous climb. The trails are well marked and maintained. There is a lot of tree cover along the way, which helps on a hot day. A thoroughly enjoyable hike.

Pros:

Hudson River Valley views, newly constructed trail is well done.

Cons:

Some road noise from 9W.

Take a hike!

Hook Mountain Summit via Upper Nyack Trail & Long Path

Sources:

Kennedy Dells County Park

Posted on July 18, 2022

July 16, 2022 – New City, NY

Difficulty: Easy

Length: Approximately 2.4 miles

Max elevation: 269 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 138 ft.

Route type: Circuit

Free Web Map: Kennedy Dells Park Map 2021

Trailhead parking: 19 Zukor Rd, New City, NY 10956

Ample parking is available – Restrooms on site

The park is open year-round, from 8am to sunset.

Park Overview:

Kennedy Dells County Park consists of 179 Acres of flat rolling topography. The extreme westerly portion is heavily wooded consisting of Hemlock, White Pine, Beech, Maple, Black and Red Oak, White Ash, and Black Locust. Along the western boundary of the park is the scenic Crum Creek, paralleled by a trail. An old road leads down to the ruins of a stone dam, stone arches that once supported a bridge over the creek, and a stone pumphouse. The park is owned, operated and managed by the Rockland County Park System.

Kennedy Dells County Park

Amenities include hiking trails, a fitness trail, horse corral, nature studies, soccer, baseball, cross country skiing, picnic tables, pavilion, and farming demonstrations. Restrooms and handicapped facilities are available.

History:

Owned in the early part of the century by the well-known movie producer Adolph Zukor. New City was at one time to be the Hollywood of the east. Rockland County acquired 80 acres in 1969 with an additional purchase of 97 acres in 1975. Remains of the stone bridge across Crum Creek still exist.

Trails Overview:

There are two major trails in the park, the 1.4-mile white-blazed Bridle Path, and the 1.4-mile yellow-blazed Fitness Trail. These trails can be combined to make a 2.4-mile loop hike around the perimeter of the park. Although the Bridle Trail is open to equestrian use, it is primarily frequented by canines (accompanied by the owners and other family members).

Bridle Path – Kennedy Dells County Park

A section of the Bridle Path parallels scenic Crum Creek, the western boundary of the park, and an old road leads down to the remains of a stone dam (now breached), a road bridge over the creek (all that remains are the stone-arch abutments) and a stone pumphouse (with ruins of the machinery still inside). The park features nearly level topography, so the hikes are all easy.

cascade & stone bridge ruins – Kennedy Dells County Park

Pump House ruins – Kennedy Dells County Park

Hike Overview:

I visited Kennedy Dells County Park in 2014 and decided to pay it a return visit. I was looking to do an easy walk on a late Saturday morning and this park was the ideal place. There is plenty of parking and there are restrooms available on site. Since there was a light drizzle during our time there, there weren’t many people on the trails.

This hike loops counterclockwise around the perimeter of the park utilizing the Bridle Path and the Fitness Trail.

Kennedy Dells County Park Loop Hike

As shown in the elevation graph, it’s a mostly level hike.

elevation profile – Kennedy Dells County Park

The Hike:

From the north end of the main parking area, proceed west and continue on a rough paved road, passing soccer fields on both sides. Go around a gate and continue on the road as it bears right and climbs a little.

Kennedy Dells County Park

As the road bends to the left, a white blaze on a tree to the right marks the start of the Bridle Path. Turn right and follow this white-blazed trail, covered with wood chips for part of the way, which heads through a wooded area. Although open to equestrian use, it is more heavily used by walkers with their dogs.

turn right on Bridle Path

Bridle Path – Kennedy Dells County Park

After passing a field to the left, the trail bends left and reaches the Eleanor Burlingham Tree Nursery. Here, it turns right, then heads left and begins to run along a golf course, which borders the park to the north. When a dirt road comes in from the left, bear right and continue to follow the park boundary, with an old stone wall to the left.

Bridle Path – Kennedy Dells County Park

Soon, you’ll reach a cul-de-sac at the end of a residential street. Here, the trail turns left and begins to run along an old paved road, with the back yards of homes to the right. After a short distance, the road turns left and proceeds through a hemlock forest, paralleling Crum Creek, in a ravine below to the right.

Bridle Path – Kennedy Dells County Park

In a few minutes, you’ll reach a fork. The white-blazed Bridle Path bears left, but you should continue to follow the paved road, which bears right and descends towards the creek, where it ends abruptly. Steps on the left lead down to a viewpoint over a stone dam, which has been breached. On the opposite side of the creek, stone arches are all that remain from a bridge that formerly carried the paved road over the creek. To the right, on the east side of the creek, a stone building contains the remnants of old pumping equipment.

veer right to remain on paved road

paved road to Crum Creek

cascade & stone bridge ruins – Kennedy Dells County Park

Crum Creek cascade – Kennedy Dells County Park

stone bridge ruins – Kennedy Dells County Park

Crum Creek – Kennedy Dells County Park

Pump House ruins – Kennedy Dells County Park

Crum Creek cascade – Kennedy Dells County Park

After taking in this scenic and historic site, go back up to the fork and turn sharply right to continue on the white-blazed Bridle Path. The trail continues to parallel the stream, now visible to the right. Two hiking trails, blazed blue and orange, go off to the left, but you should continue ahead on the white-blazed trail.

Bridle Path – Kennedy Dells County Park

Eventually, the trail reaches the level of the creek, with homes clearly visible on the opposite side. A short distance beyond, you’ll reach a T-intersection, where the Bridle Path ends. Turn left onto a gravel road, and in about 150 feet, turn left again onto a stone-lined dirt path. This is the Fitness Trail, and you’ll pass a number of fitness stations along the way.

terminus of Bridle Path – Kennedy Dells County Park

Fitness Trail – Kennedy Dells County Park

Buck on the Fitness Trail – Kennedy Dells County Park

Fitness Trail – Kennedy Dells County Park

The Fitness Trail bends to the right and soon reaches a T-intersection with a dirt road. Turn right, passing a field to the right. At the next four-way intersection, turn left to continue on the stone-lined Fitness Trail, which passes a field to the left and homes to the right. After crossing a stream on a wooden bridge, it bends right, turns left and passes another field. It then turns left and descends on a long switchback. After again running along the park boundary for a short distance, it turns left, goes by a soccer field and ends at the parking area where the hike began.

Fitness Trail – Kennedy Dells County Park

terminus of Fitness Trail – Kennedy Dells County Park

Review:

A really nice park that’s good for a short easy walk with the possibility of seeing different kinds of wildlife. The small waterfall/cascade and stone ruins are worth checking out. Although surrounded by private property, it gives you the feeling that you are more removed from civilization.

Pros:

Easy walk in the woods, cascades on Crum Creek, stone ruins, plenty of parking.

Cons:

Dog park on site and you may see some unleashed dogs on the trails.

Take a Hike!

Kennedy Dells County Park

Sources:

Pine Knob Loop Trail

Posted on July 12, 2022

July 10, 2022 – Sharon, Connecticut

Difficulty: Moderate – Strenuous

Length: Approximately 2.8 miles

Max elevation: 1,158 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 814 ft.

Route type: Circuit

Map: Housatonic Meadows State Park Trail Map

Avenza Map: Housatonic Meadows State Park Avenza Trail Map

Trailhead parking: US-7 – Sharon, CT 06069

No entrance or parking fees – No bathrooms on site

Gravel parking lot for about 20-25 cars

Open from 8am to sunset.

Overview:

The Pine Knob Loop Trail is located in Housatonic Meadows State Park and Housatonic State Forest on the west side of the Housatonic River, north of Cornwall Bridge. A short and challenging trail, it is coaligned with the Appalachian Trail for about 0.7 mile. Hikers will enjoy scenic vistas over the Housatonic River Valley. The trail is accessible from a dedicated lot on US-7 in Sharon, Connecticut and also from the state park’s campground and group camping area via unmarked trails.

Pine Knob Loop Trail

History:

From the mid-eighteenth century until the early twentieth century, the area was home to a thriving iron industry. The foundries and blast furnaces were heated by charcoal to the extreme temperatures required to melt raw iron ore into molten crude, or pig iron. The charcoal was produced by itinerant colliers who chopped wood cut from the forested hills, stacked it into huge mounds, and burned and smoked it over several weeks. Remains of these hearth sites (flat circular areas) can be seen along some of the trails. More than 3,000 acres of original purchases for Housatonic State Forest were from one iron company in 1927.

Trails Overview:

The Pine Knob Loop Trail is part of the Connecticut Blue-Blazed Hiking Trail System, With more than 825 miles marked with blue rectangular blazes. The Connecticut Forest & Park Association (CFPA) established the Blue-Blazed Hiking Trail System in 1929, when the Quinnipiac Trail was created. These trails pass through 88 towns traversing both public and private lands.

Turn right – Pine Knob Loop Trail

The Pine Knob Loop Trail is probably the most popular hike in the area and offers nice views from near the top of Pine Knob of the surrounding hills. If doing the hike counterclockwise as described here, the route is more difficult and at times you’ll have to use both your hands and feet to climb over some of the steeper rocky sections.

Going clockwise, the ascent is not as steep, but the descent will be.

The trail is well marked in most places, but there are certain areas that could use an extra blaze or two.

Please Note: The trail travels over large sections of slanted rock slabs which could be hazardous if wet or icy. A good pair of hiking boots with good gripping soles is recommended for this hike.

Pine Knob Loop Trail

Hike Overview:

This is one of those hikes that I have had on my list for several years. From what I read, the Pine Knob Loop Trail is probably the most popular hike in the area. Since it is about 1-1/2 hours from my home base, it meant getting there early to secure a parking spot and beat the crowds. When we arrived at the trailhead parking lot on a Sunday in July at about 8:30am, there were three cars in the lot. At the conclusion of the hike, the lot was full.

Pine Knob Loop Trailhead at 8:30am on a Sunday in July.

Whenever possible, in an effort to save my knees, I prefer to do steeper uphills and more moderate descents. Several hike reports that I read said that the preferred route is counterclockwise, but on the day of this hike, it seemed that everyone was doing it clockwise. As we passed a couple of hikers and exchanged pleasantries, one of them commented “you went up the hard way.” I answered “I guess so.”

There are several stream crossings and waterfalls that were dry on our visit, but I have seen images posted by others on social media that were impressive.

This hike begins and ends at the Pine Knob Loop trailhead on US-7 in Sharon, Connecticut. As stated previously, this particular hike was done counter clockwise, but you can choose the route that you prefer.

Pine Knob Loop Trail

It’s a steep climb early on, gaining about 630 feet of elevation in under a mile to get to the first viewpoint. Once at the first viewpoint, the bulk of the elevation is done.

elevation profile – Pine Knob Loop Trail

The Hike:

At the northern end of the parking lot there is a light blue blaze painted on a tree. That is the start of the Pine Knob Loop Trail. You will be following the blue blazes for the entire hike. Proceed ahead on a footpath that enters the woods and soon crosses Hatch Brook on large rocks. After passing through a break in a stone wall, the trail comes to the start of the loop. Either way that you go, will bring you back to that spot if you follow the blue blazes.

Pine Knob Loop Trail

dry stream crossing – Pine Knob Loop Trail

Pine Knob Loop Trail

Turn right – Pine Knob Loop Trail

To proceed in the direction of the hike as described here, turn right on the Pine Knob Loop Trail which borders a stone wall at first, then passes through it. The trail slowly gains elevation as it travels through the heavily wooded tract. The trail soon crosses an intermittent stream and begins to climb Pine Knob on switchbacks, gaining elevation quickly.

Pine Knob Loop Trail

If you are lucky, you may see water cascading down this rock.

dry cascade – Pine Knob Loop Trail

The trail levels off briefly, then steepens again. As the trail gains elevation, you may be able to catch glimpses of the surrounding countryside through the trees. More so during leaf-off season. As the Pine Knob Loop Trail becomes even more steep, you may have to use both hands and feet to climb over some large rocks.

Pine Knob Loop Trail

The trail travels over some massive rock slabs and ledges as it winds its way up Pine Knob.

Pine Knob Loop Trail

In just under a mile from the start and after about 630 feet of elevation gain, the trail reaches an east-facing viewpoint over the heavily forested hills of Mine Mountain, Dean Hill and Coltsfoot Mountain, among others.

Pine Knob Loop Trail

The best thing about this view is that you can’t see anything that is man-made anywhere.

Pine Knob Loop Trail

Extreme caution should be exercised here, especially if wet or icy. The trail goes directly across, but you can veer to the left to avoid this slanted rock ledge. There is a steep drop-off here.

Pine Knob Loop Trail

The 1,120-foot-high overlook is filled with rock ledges surrounded by white pines, pitch pines, scrub oak, and fallen needles cover the ground. A nice place to sit and rest from the steep climb, as you gaze out at the Housatonic River Valley.

First viewpoint – Pine Knob Loop Trail

The trail climbs some more then descends steeply into a hollow. The scant blazing in this area makes the trail a little hard to follow. At the base of the descent, bear left slightly and look for the well beaten path.

Pine Knob Loop Trail

A short distance later, the trail reaches a junction with the white-blazed Appalachian Trail, which is straight ahead. Turn left, now following the co-aligned Pine Knob Loop/Appalachian Trail.

Pine Knob Loop Trail

The sign on the other side of the tree. You can’t see it as you approach the junction.

Pine Knob Loop Trail

For the next 3/4-mile, you will be following both the white and blue blazes. Pay more attention to the blue blazes as the two trails will eventually part.

Pine Knob Loop Trail/AT

The trail now begins to climb gradually, with some short steep sections. In about 0.4 mile, from the junction with the AT, the trail reaches another east-facing viewpoint.

Pine Knob Loop Trail/AT

Appalachian Trail viewpoint

This view, although similar, is not as nice as the previous one.

Appalachian Trail viewpoint

From the viewpoint, the joint Pine Knob Loop/AT descends steadily. In about 0.3 mile from the viewpoint, the two trails split. Turn left to remain on the blue-blazed Pine Knob Loop Trail.

Pine Knob Loop Trail/AT

turn left on Pine Knob Loop Trail

Now following only the blue blazes, the trail continues to descend on a wide footpath, paralleling then soon crossing an un-named mountain stream.

Pine Knob Loop Trail

Soon the trail approaches and borders Hatch Brook. As the trail descends through the Hatch Brook ravine, it passes several large boulders and soon runs along the edge of the scenic brook.

Pine Knob Loop Trail

The trail then widens to a narrow woods road, passing more interesting boulders. In about 0.7 mile from the junction with the AT, the trail closes the loop, crosses Hatch Brook and returns to the parking lot, where the hike began.

Pine Knob Loop Trail

Review:

The views are really nice, not the best that I have seen, but really nice. The hike itself was fun and challenging at the same time. It got the blood pumping early and often. It was a good call to do this hike in a counterclockwise direction. The final mile was much easier on the knees. This place can attract crowds so I would suggest getting an early start.

Pros:

Nice views, mostly well marked trails, Appalachian Trail, interesting rock formations, nice water features during wet periods.

Cons:

Some road noise can be heard on certain areas of the trail, mostly dry streams and cascades.

Take a hike!

Pine Knob Loop Trail

Sources:

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Posted on July 5, 2022

July 4, 2022 – Oakland, NJ

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 3.2 miles

Max elevation: 879 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 550 ft.

Route type: Circuit

Buy Map: Northern New Jersey Highlands Trails Map 2021

Free Map: Ramapo Mountain State Forest Map 2021

Avenza Maps: Northern New Jersey Highlands (#150 Ramapos Only) 2021

Trailhead parking: Upper Parking Lot – 265 Skyline Drive, Oakland, NJ 07436

Park Overview:

A rugged 4,269-acre area, Ramapo Mountain State Forest, with elevations ranging from about 200 to 1,100 feet, is a sanctuary for wildlife. Birders are attracted to the forest for its ponds, streams, marshes and one fairly large lake that provide the perfect habitat for bird and other wildlife species. The Ramapo Mountain State Forest, which includes wild lands in the municipalities of Oakland (Bergen County), Pompton Lakes, Ringwood and Wanaque, borders Ringwood State Park and the Ramapo Valley County Reservation, a part of the Bergen County Park System.

Ramapo Mountain State Forest

The 1,417-acre Ramapo Lake Natural Area within the park, offers spectacular views from numerous rock outcroppings and ledges, and rewards those who accept the challenge of the winding hiking trails and rocky terrain that comprise most of the site. A 120-acre clearwater mountain lake provides an excellent spot for fishing and birdwatching. There is no swimming permitted in Ramapo Lake. The area is open every day from 8 am to 8 pm.

Ramapo Lake – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

History:

In 1910 stock broker William Porter built the colossal granite mansion “Foxcroft” on the top of Fox Hill, selected for the commanding views it afforded. In 1911, while traveling back to New York after a weekend at Foxcroft, Porter was killed in an automobile accident. He was survived by his wife Ruth Halliwell Porter, who was returning from a European vacation aboard the Lusitania at the time of the crash.

In 1913, Ruth married Warren Van Slyke and renamed their part-time retreat the Van Slyke Castle. When Warren died in 1925, Ruth moved to the castle permanently and remained there until her death in 1940. On March 1, 1949, the Castle was purchased by Celeste and Robin MacFadden, who subsequently sold to Suzanne S. Christie on July 2, 1951. Between 1951 and 1962, Suzanne S. Christie was to become Suzanne S. O’Sullivan then Suzanne Noyes Brussel. As strange as it may seem, Suzanne (who was the sole owner) abandoned the mansion between husbands, and left it to the mercy of the elements. In 1959, the magnificent structure was reduced to ruins in a fire of undetermined origin.

On August 18, 1978, Suzanne Brussel sold the ruins to Bruce Ademski of the Ademski and Van Saun Home Improvement Company. Ademski then subdivided the 15.9 acre parcel into three 5 acre lots. On February 22, 1980 the State of New Jersey filed a “Declaration of Taking;” which informed Ademski that his lots would soon be seized by the NJDEP at a non-negotiable price. Shortly after the receipt of this document, Ademski’s lots became part of Ramapo Mountain State Forest.

In the early part of the 20th century, Clifford MacEvoy purchased about 2600-acres of what would become Ramapo Mountain State Forest. In 1976 the area became state lands using Green Acres and federal funds. The majority of Park acreage was conveyed by the trustee of the Clifford MacEvoy estate to the State of New Jersey to be included as part of the existing Ramapo State Forest.

Trails Overview:

The state forest built a network of hiking trails with the help of the New Jersey Youth Conservation Corps in 1978, some of which are still in use today. The forest was unfortunately sliced in two by the controversial extension of Route 287 in the early 1990’s by the NJ Department of Transportation. A footbridge was built over the highway along the Cannonball Trail to mitigate this issue.

Ramapo Mountain State Forest includes 18 official trails, totaling more than 29 miles. Trails vary in length from less than 1 mile to 10 miles and many trails continue beyond Ramapo Mountain State Forest into adjacent County and State lands. Many multi-use trails are suitable for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. Please obey all designated uses of the trails posted at trailheads and trail crossings.

As of September 2020, changes were made to the trail system In Ramapo Mountain State Forest. The changes were sparked by a rise in visitation, which has been accompanied by a rise in lost hikers, leading to a persistent need for the services of local search and rescue. The improvements include changing blaze colors and creating new trails. Having an up-to-date trail map is paramount before heading into the woods.

The new Castle Loop Trail (white blazes), uses existing trails to create a loop hike option from the Upper Parking lot on Skyline Drive. The trail was re-blazed with added signage and in some areas rerouted and/or combined with shorter trail segments into larger, coherent loops, to greatly enhance the visitor experience.

Although you are following only one trail color on this hike, careful attention should be paid to where the blazes go. Certain areas could benefit from a simple painted arrow on a tree indicating direction or an extra blaze here or there, as there are numerous instances where the trail is rerouted alongside existing footpaths/woods roads that are well beaten and can lead to confusion. The image below is a perfect example. The lone white blaze (circled) is right at the junction and could benefit from a left turn indicator or a painted arrow pointing left. The next blaze is some distance down the trail and difficult to see. The unmarked trail on the right is a more well-trodden path than the blazed trail.

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

My advice is to utilize the free Avenza Maps app, using an up-to-date trail map to navigate your way around, otherwise you may be left scratching your head throughout the hike.

Hike Overview:

This popular day hike is best done early mornings or weekdays. We arrived about 7:45am on July 4th and there were only two vehicles in the lot. At the conclusion of the hike, the lot was full.

Upper Parking Lot – Skyline Drive – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

I did a similar hike in January of 2020 before the implementation of the trail improvements. I wanted to update the hike on this site and the 4th of July was as good a time as any. To be honest, I don’t remember any navigational issues on our first hike before the “improvements.” Numerous times on this hike we had to stop and survey the area searching out blazes. Some of the re-routes are made more confusing by the placement of the blazes and some junctions could use some directional blazes. Having been here before, I had a good idea of where I was going, but a first time visitor or novice could run into some difficulties. Bottom line is that you have to pay careful attention to the trail blazes and at times stop and seek out the next blaze or turn around and look for blazes going in the other direction.

We did this hike clockwise, but I believe more people do the hike counterclockwise. The signs at the kiosk indicate left to “Ramapo Lake” and going right to “Castle Ruins.” Most of the people we saw, were going in the opposite direction.

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

This clockwise loop begins and ends at the Upper Parking lot on Skyline Drive.

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Although there are several steep sections, the overall elevation is mostly moderate.

elevation profile – Castle Loop Trail

This hike can be combined with the LeGrande Hill Loop or the Ramapo Lake Loop.

The Hike:

In the center of the parking area, you will see three white blazes on a tree alongside a sign and a bench, marking the start and end of the Castle Loop Trail. This trail will be your route for the entire hike. Follow the white blazes a short distance on a foot path to a kiosk where the trail splits. The right fork will be your return route, but for now bear left and follow the Castle Loop Trail towards Ramapo Lake. After passing an interesting rock outcrop on the right, you’ll come to a Y-intersection, where the white-blazed trail bears right and begins to descend.

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Just as we were passing the kiosk, two people going in the opposite direction told us they saw a Black Bear just a few feet down the trail and showed us a picture that they took on their phone. Not wanting to alter our route, we proceeded in the direction of where the bear was spotted, but saw no sight or sound of said bear. We were now on high alert for the entire hike.

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Soon, a gravel road briefly appears on the right, but bear left to stay on the white-blazed trail, which follows a rocky woods road over undulating terrain. The road eventually narrows to a footpath and crosses an intermittent stream. After descending on a winding route and once again briefly approaching the gravel road, the Castle Loop Trail heads down to a woods road – the route of the black-square-on-blue-blazed Ramapo Lake Spur.

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Turn right, now following both white and black-square-on-blue blazes. Soon, the trails bear left and descend a short pitch to Ramapo Lake (the dam of the lake is just to the left; do not cross it). Here, the black-square-on-blue-blazed Ramapo Lake Spur ends.

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

You should continue ahead onto North Shore Drive (marked by a street sign), following the white blazes of the Castle Loop Trail, now joined by the blue-on-white blazes of the Ramapo Lake Loop (which begins here). The joint trails follow a gravel road along the northeast shore of the lake, passing a private home on the right and then crossing a small stream on a stone-arch bridge, with an attractive cascade on the right.

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Ramapo Lake Natural Area

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

A short distance beyond, you’ll come to a rock ledge on the left that overlooks the lake. This is a good place to take a break. Once known as Rotten Pond, and later as Lake LeGrande, Ramapo Lake is the centerpiece of Ramapo Mountain State Forest. It was formerly surrounded by private property, but most of the land around the lake was acquired by the state in the 1970’s.

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Just beyond, the trails reach the northern tip of Ramapo Lake. Here, you should bear right at the fork in the road, now following only white blazes, and pass between two concrete pillars. A short distance ahead, the white-“C”-on-red-blazed Cannonball Trail joins from the left. Just beyond, as the road curves sharply to the right, turn left, leaving the road, and follow the white-blazed Castle Loop Trail as it climbs steadily and rather steeply.

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

As you approach the top of the climb, bear left onto a rock ledge that offers a spectacular view. Directly below you is Ramapo Lake, with the Wanaque Mountains to the right (west). You’ll want to pause here to rest from the steep climb and enjoy the view.

rock ledge – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

view from rock ledge – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

When you’re ready to continue, follow the white-blazed trail uphill. After climbing over a stone wall on a step-stile, There is an unmarked footpath on the left that leads to a similar view as the one before it, with Ramapo Lake visible below. On a clear day, you can see the New York City skyline on the horizon to the left.

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

view from 2nd rock ledge – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Retrace your steps to the Castle Loop Trail and turn left. In a few feet, you’ll reach the ruins of a mansion. Known as Foxcroft, it was built around 1910 by William Porter, a stockbroker. It was renamed Van Slyke Castle in 1913 after his widow married Warren Van Slyke. She occupied it until her death in 1940, and it fell into ruin in the late 1950’s. Use caution if you wish to explore the remains of this once-elegant stone structure.

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Van Slyke Castle ruins – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

The trail continues to the north on a footpath (ignore the two woods roads that leave from the ruins), passing the remains of a concrete swimming pool. Just beyond, the trail bears left and soon reaches an unobstructed west-facing viewpoint over the Wanaque Reservoir and the Wyanokie Mountains.

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Continue on the white-blazed trail, which climbs to a stone tower. Contrary to what one might think at first glance, this was not a lookout tower; rather, it held a cistern that supplied water to the mansion (note the rusted pipes adjacent to the tower). Just beyond, there is another view from an open rock ledge to the left of the trail over the Wanaque Reservoir to the west. The trail now begins to descend.

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

cistern – Castle Loop Trail

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Watch carefully as the Castle Loop briefly turns left onto a woods road, then immediately turns right onto a footpath before reaching the route of a gas pipeline. It turns right again onto a woods road, turns left onto a footpath before reaching a wide gravel road, then turns right and follows the gas pipeline for 350 feet. After turning right and leaving the pipeline, the trail crosses a seasonal stream and climbs, first gradually, then rather steeply through mountain laurel, to a rock ledge with a broad view. From the ledge, you may be able to see the stone tower you passed about half a mile back.

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

A short distance beyond, the Castle Loop Trail reaches a paved road, with Skyline Drive just to the left. Turn right onto the road, also the route of the Cannonball Trail (white-“C”-on-red blazes). The trails follow the road for 200 feet, then turn left onto a footpath through the woods. Soon, you’ll reach a junction where the two trails diverge. Turn left and follow the white-blazed Castle Loop Trail along a footpath roughly parallel to Skyline Drive until you reach the parking area where the hike began.

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

terminus of Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Review:

An enjoyable hike with numerous points of interest. Although you are following a single trail for the entire hike, you have to pay close attention to the blazes. There are numerous reroutes, footpaths and woods roads that intersect or branch off the Castle Loop Trail. The castle ruins are better viewed in leaf-off season when they are less concealed by the foliage. This is a popular place to hike, especially in the vicinity of Ramapo Lake. It is best to either come early or on a weekday when it is less crowded. Nonetheless, a good few hours spent on the trails.

Pros:

Van Slyke Castle ruins, Ramapo Lake, scenic views, stone tower.

Cons:

Better markings at certain junctions would be helpful, popular hiking spot that gets crowded on weekends.

Take a hike!

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Sources:

Bull Hill Short Loop – Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve

Posted on June 28, 2022

June 26, 2022 – Cold Spring, NY

Difficulty: Strenuous

Length: Approximately 4.6 miles

Max elevation: 1,112 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 1,200 ft.

Route type: Circuit

Buy Maps (Paper & Avenza): East Hudson Trails Map #102

Free Web Map: Hudson Highlands North Trail Map 2021

Free Avenza App Map: Hudson Highlands North Trail Map 2019

Trailhead parking: Route 9D – Bear Mountain-Beacon Hwy, Cold Spring, NY

47-space parking lot – Portable bathrooms on site

The park is open year round from sunrise to sunset.

Overview:

Bull Hill, also known as Mount Taurus, is a mountain just north of the Village of Cold Spring on the Hudson River in Putnam County, NY. It is part of the river-straddling mountain range known as the Hudson Highlands. While not as well known as its neighbor to the north Breakneck Ridge or Storm King Mountain across the river, it is part of Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve and has an extensive trail system, offering hikers sweeping views of the river and neighboring peaks from rock outcrops near its wooded 1,420-foot summit, higher than both Breakneck Ridge and Storm King Mountain.

Bull Hill as viewed from Storm King Mountain – September‎ ‎15‎, ‎2018

Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve consists of a series of separate parcels of land stretching from Annsville Creek in Peekskill, north to Dennings Point in Beacon. The mostly undeveloped preserve of over 8,000 acres, has over 70 miles of trails which includes terrain that varies from easy to challenging. The Park Preserve protects a mosaic of special habitats from the estuarine shore of the Hudson River, through young deciduous forest, to the rocky ridges and summits towering above the surrounding area, providing a haven for many plants and animals just 50 miles north of New York City. The Hudson Highlands and Hudson River provide spectacular backdrops for the many outdoor activities that can be enjoyed here, such as hiking, boating, fishing, and birding.

History:

The original name “Bull Hill” came after a bull that used to terrorize the mountain was chased by indignant inhabitants. A hunting party drove the bull over the hill. In an attempt to flee the mountaineers, the bull plunged out into space and fell down. Its broken and shapeless mass on the rocks was memorialized in the name of the mountain the bull used to haunt. Don’t let the name fool you. This is a mountain, not a hill.

On the Washburn Trail, where the Bull Hill Loops begin, you’ll pass by the massive rock formations that were once a quarry owned by the Hudson River Stone Company from 1931-1967. The quarry produced hard gneissic rock for use in construction until mining operations ceased in 1944.

Located along the Cornish Trail, which is also the last leg of the Bull Hill Loops, are the ruins of the Cornish Estate. The estate was named Northgate by its owner, Edward Joel Cornish, who lived there with his wife from 1917-1938. What you’ll see on your hike is all that remains of the estate after a destructive fire in 1958.

mansion ruins – Cornish Estate

Trails Overview:

Please Note: Trail distances denoted below are in relation to this hike only and not the total distance of the trails.

Washburn Trail: (white blazes – 1.4 miles) ~ The main route up Bull Hill from the Washburn Trailhead, it climbs to the mountain’s 1,420 feet summit in almost 2.3 miles. This is the greatest vertical ascent of any trail within the park. This is a very strenuous trail that ascends over 1,000 feet from the river to the junction with the Undercliff Trail.
Undercliff Trail: (yellow blazes – 1.5 miles) ~ This yellow blazed trail travels along the shoulder of Bull Hill and descends to the notch between Breakneck Ridge and Bull Hill. It features some steep climbs and open viewpoints from rock outcrops. It takes its name from the many cliffs whose foot it passes.
Brook Trail: (red blazes – 0.15 mile) ~ This trail runs along the notch between Breakneck Ridge and Bull Hill, from Route 9D to its terminus at the Notch Trail. The trail parallels Breakneck Brook and follows several old roads, making it one of the more moderate trails in the area.
Cornish Trail (blue blazes – 1.45 miles) ~ This blue blazed trail follows a disused road through the ruins of an old estate. Extensive ruins of the mansion and several outbuildings are scattered throughout the area.

The trails used on this hike were easy to follow and well maintained on the the day that we visited.

In 2021, the Taconic Conservation Corps Crew (TCCC) completed the Washburn Trail reroute, which concluded 2 years of work. This project involved substantial trail improvements along a one-third-mile stretch of trail leading up from the old quarry to the Cold Spring overlook. More stone steps were installed leading to a newly built viewing platform above the quarry overlooking the Hudson River Valley. The Washburn Trail looks much different than the last time I hiked it in 2016.

Washburn Trail – Bull Hill

Hike Overview:

Having done the “Bull Hill Full Loop” in 2016, it was time to pay a return visit. I have always wanted to hike the section of the Undercliff Trail that runs along the shoulder of Bull Hill. The area that includes Bull Hill, Little Stony Point and Breakneck Ridge have some of the most heavily used trails in the Hudson Valley and the parking areas are usually filled to capacity. Getting there early is the key to securing a parking spot and avoiding the massive crowds during the summer hiking season.

We got up bright and early on a Sunday morning, arriving at the Washburn Trailhead at about 7:30am. The parking lot is directly across the street from Little Stony Point.

Washburn Trailhead – Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve

When we arrived back at the parking lot around noon, the lot was full, with several cars coming and going.

Washburn Trailhead Parking Lot

The day was hot and hazy with temps around 90°. With the exception of the rock outcrops, almost the entire hike was under a canopy of trees, making the heat tolerable. We saw some groups of people, but not as many as I thought that we would run into. Starting early really pays off.

This counterclockwise loop begins at river level and quickly gains elevation as it climbs Bull Hill on the Washburn Trail. Once on the Undercliff Trail, the bulk of the elevation is done with just some minor ups and downs the rest of the way. Once you reach the Brook Trail, it’s all downhill for the remaining 1.7 miles.

Bull Hill Short Loop

elevation profile – Bull Hill Short Loop

The Hike:

From the northern end of the parking area, proceed north on the white-blazed Washburn Trail. In 100 feet, you’ll reach a junction with the blue-blazed Cornish Trail, which continues straight ahead. The Cornish Trail will be your return route, but for now, bear right and continue to follow the Washburn Trail uphill along an old road, once used to access a quarry.

Washburn Trailhead

Washburn Trail – Bull Hill

In about half a mile, you’ll reach the site of the quarry, opened in 1931 by the Hudson River Stone Corporation and abandoned in 1967. The quarry site is now overgrown with trees, although the scars in the rock are plainly visible on the left. Here, the trail leaves the road, veers sharply right, and follows the rim of the quarry. You’ll notice some rusted pipes and cables along the trail, remnants of former quarrying operations.

Washburn Trail – Bull Hill

The Washburn Trail now ascends a recently rerouted section of the trail that took two years to complete. The trail ascends a series of stone steps to a newly built overlook along the rim of the quarry. Directly below is the quarry and to the northwest, across the river is Storm King Mountain.

Washburn Trail – Bull Hill

Storm King Mountain (center) across the Hudson River with the Bull Hill quarry in the foreground.

Washburn Trail – Bull Hill

The exposed rock summit of Butter Hill (left) and Storm King Mountain (right).

Washburn Trail – Bull Hill

A short distance later as the trail makes a sharp right turn, there is a more wide-ranging view over the quarry, with Storm King Mountain across the river to the right and Crows Nest Mountain to the left. This makes a good spot to take a break.

Washburn Trail – Bull Hill

Bull Hill quarry.

Washburn Trail – Bull Hill

Storm King Mountain across the river to the right.

Washburn Trail – Bull Hill

Crows Nest Mountain across the Hudson River with Butter Hill on the far right.

Washburn Trail – Bull Hill

The Washburn Trail turns right and a short distance later, reaches the Cold Spring Overlook.

Washburn Trail – Bull Hill

Cold Spring is visible directly below with Constitution Island to its south and West Point across the river to the southwest. The southern section of the East Hudson Highlands, including the hills of Fahnestock State Park are visible to the left. You may want to stop here to enjoy the spectacular view.

Cold Spring Overlook – Washburn Trail

Past the viewpoint, the trail continues to ascend more gradually, but soon steepens. After climbing another 400 vertical feet, it comes out on open rocks, with views over the Hudson River to the west and south. Crows Nest Mountain is directly across the river, and the United States Military Academy at West Point is prominent in the distance to the south. After a short level section, the trail resumes a rather steep climb.

Washburn Trail – Bull Hill

Crows Nest Mountain.

Washburn Trail – Bull Hill

About 1.4 miles from the start, the Washburn Trail reaches a junction with the yellow-blazed Undercliff Trail. Turn left and follow the Undercliff Trail which begins an undulating traverse of the western shoulder of Bull Hill, passing several more viewpoints over the Hudson River. Upon reaching the far end of the shoulder, the trail emerges on a rock outcrop with a sweeping view to the north. Breakneck Ridge is the ragged ridge to the north, and Storm King – with its cut for the highway – is directly across the river.

turn left on the Undercliff Trail

Undercliff Trail – Bull Hill

View of the Hudson River as it snakes its way south around Constitution Island (center) and the West Point Military Academy (far center).

Undercliff Trail – Bull Hill

Looking north up the Hudson River. Breakneck Ridge is the ragged ridge on the right, with the northern tip of Storm King, across the river on the left.

Undercliff Trail – Bull Hill

Looking north towards Breakneck Ridge.

Undercliff Trail – Bull Hill

Storm King Mountain across the river.

Undercliff Trail – Bull Hill

Prominent peaks and ridges of the East Hudson Highlands.

Undercliff Trail – Bull Hill

Looking north up the Hudson River past Breakneck Ridge.

Undercliff Trail – Bull Hill

Looking north with Storm King Mountain (left) and Breakneck Ridge (right).

Undercliff Trail – Bull Hill

The Undercliff Trail now turns sharply right and begins to head in a northeast direction. After crossing a stream, it descends on switchbacks to reach the stone foundations of a woods road that was never completed. The trail turns right and proceeds along the road, which soon acquires a dirt-and-gravel surface, crossing a stream on a one-log bridge. After bending to the left, the trail resumes its steady descent, soon beginning to parallel a stream.

Undercliff Trail – Bull Hill

Almost three miles from the start of the hike, the Undercliff Trail crosses a stream and reaches a wide woods road, the route of the red-blazed Brook Trail. The Undercliff Trail turns left, briefly joining the Brook Trail then immediately turns right and crosses a wider stream (Breakneck Brook) on a wooden bridge, but you should bear left and continue on the red-blazed trail along the woods road, paralleling Breakneck Brook.

turn left on Brook/Undercliff Trails

veer left on Brook Trail

Brook Trail – Bull Hill

After passing a small abandoned building to the right, you’ll reach a fork. Bear left here onto the blue-blazed Cornish Trail, which follows an old road through the former estate of Edward G. Cornish, chairman of the board of the National Lead Company.

Brook Trail – Bull Hill

veer left onto the Cornish Trail

Cornish Trail – Bull Hill

The road passes a large cement-and-stone cistern on the right, then curves around two switchbacks and continues with a concrete pavement. Just before reaching the paved section of the road, there is an unmarked footpath that leads down to the stone ruins of the Cornish Estate, which are visible below on the right.

cistern – Cornish Trail

Cornish Trail – Bull Hill

stone structure – Cornish Trail

The Greenhouse: It appears that Edward and Selina Cornish, in part, used the greenhouse for winter storage of palm trees and other exotic plants that were placed in front of the house during the warmer weather. A boiler in the basement provided heat to the building and sprinklers.

greenhouse ruins – Cornish Estate

There are numerous informational signs throughout the area that explain the usage and history of the buildings on the estate.

Northgate – Cornish Estate Ruins

The Mansion: For the design of the mansion, Sigmund Stern hired the architectural firm of Werner and Windolph. The architects paid special attention to the natural setting of the house, maximizing views of Storm King Mountain, Breakneck Ridge and the Hudson River.

mansion ruins – Cornish Estate

The Cornish Estate ruins site is currently undergoing preservation efforts after receiving a grant to help uncover the mystery behind this once prestigious mansion.

mansion ruins – Cornish Estate

The Cornish Estate and subsistence farms were first developed in 1910 by Chicago diamond merchant Sigmund Stern, who utilized the 650 acres of land. Stern was on the board of Surprise Lake Camp, the nation’s longest-running Jewish sleepaway camp.

mansion ruins – Cornish Estate

In 1916, the land was offered for lease after Stern’s wife passed away. New York businessman Edward Cornish and wife Selina took over the property the following year and ran a dairy farm. In the late 1930’s, the Cornish couple passed away within two weeks of each other. The property was given to a nephew who did not maintain the estate, and in 1958 a fire destroyed the majority of the mansion.

mansion ruins – Cornish Estate

Ironically, in the 1930’s Edward Cornish hoped to bequeath his 650-acre property to New York State. NYS decided the mountainous site was no place for a park and turned him down. It didn’t become part of Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve until the late 1960’s.

mansion ruins – Cornish Estate

When you are done exploring these impressive looking ruins, continue through the porte-cochère down the estate driveway. You should see blue and red markers on a tree. Follow the driveway to the next junction and bear right.

porte-cochère – Cornish Estate

Blue/Red Trail – Cornish Estate

bear right on the Cornish Trail

Cornish Trail – Bull Hill

A massive boulder alongside the trail.

Cornish Trail – Bull Hill

To replace the steep and winding Breakneck Valley Road that approached the mansion from the north, a new driveway was laid connecting the mansion to Shore Road (present-day Route 9-D) from the south. This major undertaking required significant engineering and rock blasting. Culverts and spillways directed runoff alongside and under the road.

Cornish Trail – Bull Hill

The paved road descends steadily towards Route 9D, where it ends at a gate. Just before the gate, the Cornish Trail turns left, crosses a wet area on rocks and stumps, and continues along a footpath parallel to Route 9D for about a quarter of a mile to end just before the parking lot where the hike began.

turn left to stay on Cornish Trail

Cornish Trail – Bull Hill

Washburn Trailhead – Bull Hill

Washburn Trailhead Parking Lot

Review:

A thoroughly enjoyable hike. There are so many points of interest on this hike that you’ll want to stop not only to catch your breath, but to take in the exceptional views or explore the extensive ruins. Be forewarned, this is no walk in the park, but enjoyable nonetheless. As with most of the popular trails in the Hudson Valley, you’ll run into plenty of day hikers on any given day. The key is to visit on a weekday or very early mornings before the crowds arrive. The trails are well marked with plenty of signage. I highly recommend this hike to all that are physically able.

Pros:

Views galore, well marked and maintained trails, Cornish Estate ruins.

Cons:

Popular hiking area which attracts crowds.

Take a hike!

Bull Hill Short Loop

Sources:

Rockland Lake Loop

Posted on June 22, 2022

June 19, 2022 – Valley Cottage, NY

Difficulty: Easy

Length: Approximately 3.3 miles

Max elevation: 161 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 66 ft.

Route type: Circuit

Buy Maps (Paper & Avenza): Hudson Palisades Trails Map #111

Free Web Map: Rockland Lake State Park Map 2021

Trailhead parking: Rockland Lake Rd, Valley Cottage, NY 10989

Fee: $10.00 per vehicle Day Use (in season) – Empire Pass Accepted

Ample parking is available – Restrooms on site

The park is open year-round, from daylight to dusk.

Please Note: May 1 to September 30th, dogs not permitted in the Park. October 1 to March 31, dogs permitted in the Park but not on bike path or improved walkways.

Rockland Lake State Park is located in the hamlets of Congers and Valley Cottage in the eastern part of the Town of Clarkstown in Rockland County, NY. It consists of 1,133 acres, including a picturesque 256-acre fresh water lake, circled by a 3.2-mile paved multi-use path. The lake is located on a ridge of Hook Mountain above the west bank of the Hudson River. The Park includes a large public swimming pool, golf courses, tennis courts, picnic benches and charcoal grills. Many picturesque areas can be found surrounding Rockland Lake that provide significant scenic vistas of the lake, flora and surrounding topography.

Rockland Lake

Rockland Lake State Park is very heavily used during the summer season for picnicking, swimming, walking, bicycling, golfing and field activities. On warm summer weekends and holidays, the park is often filled to capacity. It has two 18-hole golf courses, a Championship Golf Course and an Executive Golf Course.

Rockland Lake State Park is a mix of developed and undeveloped lands, including the 256-acre lake and a forested wetland. It has been designated a Bird Conservation Area (BCA) and Birding is a popular activity at the park.

Great Blue Heron – Rockland Lake

Rockland Lake, Hook Mountain, Nyack Beach State Park, and Haverstraw Beach State Park are together nearly 2,000 acres of public land. The four adjacent state parks are linked together by hiking and biking trails and function as one park system.

The park complex is located in the Palisades Region that is jointly administered by the Palisades Interstate Park Commission and NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP).

History:

Rockland Lake, because of its clean spring fed water and proximity to the Hudson River, New York City, and international shipping lanes, became the undisputed leader in the ice harvesting industry, and the Knickerbocker Ice Company was formed in 1831.

Ice harvesting – Rockland Lake

What began as a single warehouse to store the ice blocks neatly cut into 20” x 40” rectangles soon became three massive structures capable of containing over 100,000 tons of ice. As ice was harvested, it was conveyed to Rockland Landing by a sort of “escalator” and loaded onto riverboats. The Knickerbocker Ice Company at one time employed four thousand men. Icehouses measuring more than 350 feet long, 100 feet wide, and 50 feet high, each with up to a 100,000-ton capacity, were situated at the northeast corner of the lake.

Icehouse – Rockland Lake

With the advent of electricity and refrigeration., artificial ice replaced the natural kind, and home freezers meant supply could rise and demand fall. The Knickerbocker Ice Company closed in 1924. In 1926, one of the icehouses caught fire during demolition, and the fire spread and destroyed much of the village of Rockland Lake. The foundation of the ice company remains today, but not much else exists to remind us of this once-flourishing industry.

On July 24, 1958, the Palisades Interstate Park Commission (PIPC) acquired the first property to create Rockland Lake State Park. This consisted of the 256-acre lake and 225 acres of adjacent land. The $735,000 acquisition was generously donated by PIPC Commissioners W. Averell Harriman, George W. Perkins, and Laurence S. Rockefeller. The State of New York (NYS) provided a matching appropriation for this gift. By December 31, 1964, with further Commission gifts totaling $223,000, and Park and Recreation Bond Issue allocations of $1,040,925, a total of 1,035 acres had been purchased. Since that time, an additional 98 acres has been acquired for a total of 1,133 acres.

Trails Overview:

The 10-foot wide, paved pathway stretches 3.2 miles as it fully circles the lake. Accessible to wheelchairs and shared by bicyclists, hikers, rollerbladers and joggers, the trail passes swimming pools, golf courses, ballfields and picnic areas as it follows the lake’s shoreline. Parking areas are spaced around the lake, giving access to restrooms and opportunity to visit the park’s nature center. The paved loop is open to hike year round and offers access to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails in the winter.

Rockland Lake Multi-Use Path

Short trails with a combination of wooden boardwalks and footbridges, can be found at the Nature Center. Located at the northern end of the lake, between Parking Field #6 and Parking Field #1, it certainly merits a visit.

Rockland Lake Nature Center

Hike Overview:

I have visited Rockland Lake State Park many times throughout the years, starting when I was a kid. It’s a beautiful area that has many things to enjoy on any given day. If you are seeking solitude, this is not the place for you. At anytime during the year, you will encounter people walking the paved path or engaged in any other type of outdoor activities. Still, there is enough to do and see that it is worth a visit.

We visited the park on Father’s Day with the temps in the high 50’s/low 60’s and somewhat windy. The northern end of the lake (around Parking Field #1) was much more populated than the other areas.

We parked at Parking Field #6, but you can park your vehicle at any one of the half-dozen parking fields, where you’ll find the opportunity to use a restroom, get in some pre-walk stretching at the picnic tables or follow your walk with a swim (in season), game of tennis or round of golf.

We took a leisurely walk, clockwise around the lake, stopping at the Nature Center to explore their trails. There are plenty of ducks, geese, swans and wading birds to keep things interesting. The track for the Nature Center Trails is not shown below as the image was from a previous visit when the Nature Center was closed.

Rockland Lake Loop

The Walk:

From Parking Field #6, follow the paved path clockwise along the lake. Immediately to the right, there are open views of the lake.

Rockland Lake Multi-Use Path

Rockland Lake

As the path heads around to the northern end of the lake, it crosses a wooden footbridge over the East Branch Hackensack River, the lake’s outlet stream. Shortly after crossing the bridge, the path reaches the Rockland Lake Nature Center. You may want to take a detour and explore the recently installed boardwalks and bridges.

Rockland Lake Multi-Use Path

The Rockland Lake Nature Center, which opened in 1965, provided a wide variety of educational opportunities for patrons. Due to budgetary constraints, park staff removed the animal exhibits and closed the Center in the early 1990’s.

Rockland Lake Nature Center

With renewed funding, the park reopened the area in 2005 with new natural and cultural exhibits about the park’s resources. The nature center is supervised by Trailside Museum and Zoo at Bear Mountain State Park and staffed with Student Conservation Association and AmeriCorps interns.

Rockland Lake Nature Center

In 2016 Rockland Lake State Park received $150,000 in state funding to replace the deteriorated 1,300-foot boardwalk trail at the Rockland Lake Nature Center. The work was completed in 2019.

Rockland Lake Nature Center

It’s a short, but entertaining walk along the recently reconstructed trails.

Swamp Forest Trail – Rockland Lake Nature Center

Several boardwalks, wooden footbridges and nature trails travel through a forested wetland located behind the Nature Center

Swamp Forest Trail – Rockland Lake Nature Center

The lake’s outlet stream flows through the wetland and under three park roads before leaving park property.

Swamp Forest Trail – Rockland Lake Nature Center

The Lakeside Loop Trail goes out to a viewing platform overlooking the lake and returns to the start.

Lakeside Loop Trail – Rockland Lake Nature Center

Rockland Lake Nature Center

An old stone fountain, a reminder of what this area once was. In the 1870’s, the site of the present day nature center, was known as Sylvan Grove, an 11-acre picnic and amusement park, with facilities for picnicking, dining, playing baseball, fishing, boating, swimming, stables, and amusement rides.

fountain – Rockland Lake Nature Center

Rockland Lake Nature Center

Turn right after leaving the nature center to continue the clockwise loop around Rockland Lake. At the next intersection, turn right again, heading alongside the pool area and towards the lake.

Rockland Lake Multi-Use Path

You may be greeted with the sight of a Great Blue Heron as you stroll by the shoreline. Despite their impressive size, Great Blue Herons weigh only 5 to 6 pounds thanks in part to their hollow bones—a feature all birds share.

Great Blue Heron – Rockland Lake

Thanks to specially shaped neck vertebrae, Great Blue Herons can quickly strike prey at a distance.

Great Blue Heron – Rockland Lake

Rockland Lake

Great Blue Herons have specialized feathers on their chest that continually grow and fray. The herons comb this “powder down” with a fringed claw on their middle toes, using the down like a washcloth to remove fish slime and other oils from their feathers as they preen.

Great Blue Heron – Rockland Lake

Rockland Lake

The busiest section of the park seems to be the area around Parking Field #1, which is near the pool and the main facilities.

Rockland Lake Multi-Use Path

Rockland Lake

Rockland Lake Multi-Use Path

Rockland Lake

As the paved path wraps around the northern end of the lake and runs along its eastern shore, there are more shaded areas.

Rockland Lake Multi-Use Path

A tree grows around the stone foundation of one of the old ice houses.

Rockland Lake Multi-Use Path

Rockland Lake

Rockland Lake Multi-Use Path

Rockland Lake

The crumbled stone walls are the last remnants of the ice houses that used to store the ice between harvest and shipment.

Rockland Lake Multi-Use Path

Rockland Lake

Soon, you can see the quarried face of Hook Mountain appear above the tree-line.

Rockland Lake

The paved path passes several other parking fields and picnic areas as it makes its way along the western shore of the lake.

Rockland Lake Multi-Use Path

Rockland Lake

Rockland Lake Multi-Use Path

Rockland Lake

Rockland Lake Multi-Use Path

The walk ends where it began, at Parking Field #6. If you decide to park elsewhere, just remember which parking field you left your vehicle.

Parking Field #6 – Rockland Lake State Park

Some pleasant sights before taking off.

Swan – Rockland Lake

Great Blue Heron – Rockland Lake

Review:

A beautiful park that is well maintained and has many points of interest. Keep in mind that Rockland Lake State Park is one of the most popular state parks in the Hudson Valley and often fills to capacity in the summer months. You have to choose the right time to visit to avoid the congestion or being turned away. Worth a visit with the family/kids, who will enjoy the many things it has to offer.

Pros:

Rockland Lake, lots of bird activity, scenic landscape, many points of interest.

Cons:

Can get crowded during the summer months.

Take a walk!

Rockland Lake Loop

Sources:

Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

Posted on June 20, 2022

An updated version of this hike can be found here: Stissing Fire Tower Loop

June 18, 2022 – Pine Plains, NY

Difficulty: Strenuous

Length: Approximately 2.1 miles

Max elevation: 1460 ft. – total elevation gain approximately 1,001 ft.

Route type: Lollipop Loop

Map: Thompson Pond/Stissing Mt Trail Map

Trailhead parking: 499 Lake Rd, Pine Plains, NY 12567

No toilets on site – No entrance or parking fees

Pull-off parking lot on shoulder for about 10 cars

Overview:

Stissing Mountain is a 1,402-foot-tall mountain in Pine Plains, NY. It is composed of the same Precambian bedrock as the Hudson Highlands but is separated from them or any other Precambian outcrop by many miles. There is an exhibit devoted to the mountain’s geology in the American Museum of Natural History. Near the summit of Stissing Mountain is a fire tower that is almost 80 feet high, about 20 feet taller than the average fire tower. The Stissing Mountain Fire Tower provides vistas east to Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Vermont; Southwest to Pennsylvania and New Jersey; and North to the Empire State Plaza in Albany.

Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

Stissing Mountain is part of the Thompson Pond Nature Preserve, managed by The Nature Conservancy. The steel tower is open to the public, and it is a popular hiking destination. The tower is owned by the Friends of Stissing Landmarks, a citizens group that formed to rescue it from demolition.

Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

History:

While the name Stissing is most certainly of Native American origin, its etymology is not precisely known. Earlier forms of the word are Tishasink, Teesink, and Stissink. In his book, Aboriginal Place Names of New York, William M. Beauchamp says that its possible origin is the Algonkian word tahshin, meaning “he raises himself”. There is a legend that the mountain was named for an Indian chief who lived in the notch between Stissing Mountain and Little Stissing, its neighbor to the immediate north. On an old patent survey map drawn in 1734 by surveyor Richard Edsall, it is called Stissink Mountain. This may be the earliest written record of the name of this mountain.

According to the Forest Fire Lookout Association, the structure on Stissing Mountain is a 79′ 6″ International Derrick E-4898 (circa 1932) tower, provided to the State of New York by the US Forest Service and erected by the Boston Corners – Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Camp in November and December of 1933. This tower was first staffed in 1935 reporting 91 fires and 610 visitors. This tower ceased operation sometime between 1979 and 1982.

Forest Fire Observers – Stissing Mountain

The ranger’s cabin, located approximately 200 feet to the north, burned in 1976.

remains of the former ranger cabin

New York State announced in 1986 that the Tower was no longer needed and would be removed. Concerned citizens formed Friends of Stissing Landmarks (FOSL) in 1986 to take over responsibility for the Tower and keep it open for the public. In 1994, the Tower was turned over to FOSL, which maintains the structure today. Hikers are welcome to access the Tower at their own risk and at no cost. FOSL encourages all users to send donations to assist in the maintenance of the Tower.

Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

Beginning in 1958, The Nature Conservancy acquired 507 acres of Stissing Mountain and Thompson Pond, forming the Thompson Pond Preserve. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has also designated Stissing and Little Stissing Mountains, together with the Wappinger Creek Valley, part of a Significant Biodiversity Area called the Stissing Mountain Wetlands Complex.

Trails Overview:

The Fire Tower can be reached by trails leading from the east side of Stissing Mountain from Lake Road and from State land on the west, from Hicks Hill Road at the Stissing Mountain Multiple Use Area.

From Lake Road, the subject of this hike, the trails are woods roads that climb steeply up the mountain. The trails are marked with rusty can tops and faded orange or blue discs.

rusty can top blaze – Stissing Mountain

faded orange blaze – Stissing Mountain

The trails used to be unmarked, but it seems that someone took the time to add some markers in recent years. There are countless woods roads and/or footpaths that branch off of the main trails. As long as you are seeing orange or blue blazes on the trees, you are on the correct trail.

The Orange Trail is steeper, but makes for a shorter route. The Blue Trail utilizes an old deteriorating access road, which is a more gradual, but longer ascent, making a loop hike possible. At the start of the trail, there is an explanation with faded marker.

Lake Road Trailhead – Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

Hike Overview:

This hike has been on my list for quite some time and I was glad to finally have had the chance to do it. Aside from the 360° views from the top of the tower, the hike itself was a good work out and not many people on the trails. It is cooler and very windy on that tower and proper gear such as a sweater or windbreaker should be packed, even in the warmer months. I made the mistake of leaving my light fleece in the vehicle and regretted it. It was in the mid 50’s and cloudy, but the blustery wind at the top of the tower, made it feel more like it was in the low 40’s. Because of the high winds, we didn’t spend much time at the top of the fire tower.

Please Note: There is no view from the base of the fire tower, so if you don’t climb at least part of the way up, you will not enjoy any of the marvelous views.

This Lollipop Loop was done clockwise, ascending on Orange (steeper) and descending on Blue. I prefer a less steep descent which is gentler on the knees.

Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

It’s a steep climb on the Orange Trail, gaining nearly 1,000 feet of elevation in just under a mile.

elevation profile – Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

The Hike:

From the trailhead parking lot on Lake Road, carefully cross the street and head into the woods on a steep, rocky footpath, following both blue and orange blazes. In about 200 feet, the trail comes to a fork, where the blazes bear left. Then about five minutes later, the Blue/Orange Trail reaches an intersection with an old woods road. Turn left onto the woods road, which soon becomes quite steep and rocky.

Stissing Mountain Fire Tower Trailhead

Blue/Orange Trail – Stissing Mountain

A short distance later, you’ll reach another fork in the trail, with a tree in the middle of the fork and many rocks piled in front of it. This is where the trails split. The right fork, the route of the Blue Trail, will be your return route, but for now, bear left on the Orange Trail and continue to follow the woods road up the mountain. Soon, the grade moderates a little and the trail becomes less rocky, but the steep climb soon resumes. Along the way, there are limited views through the trees to the left of the trail.

veer left on the Orange Trail

Orange Trail – Stissing Mountain

After about 0.4 mile of steep climbing (from the last intersection), you’ll pass stone steps to the right of the trail (the remains of a former ranger cabin) and reach the summit ridge. Just ahead is the fire tower. There are no views from the base of the tower, but you’ll want to climb this almost 80-foot tower to get a spectacular view of the countryside.

remains of the former ranger cabin

Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

The International Derrick Model 1933 Fire Tower was developed through a cooperative effort between the Aermotor Company and the U.S. Forest service. Although it is advertised as a 90-foot tower, it’s actual height is 79′ 6″ with 8 flights and 97 steps.

Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

It is a heavily galvanized free-standing batter-legged hurricane-proof structure with a 7×7-foot metal cab.

Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

The wooden plank steps are showing signs of age, with some dry rot visible. I stayed away from stepping in the center of the steps as I ascended the tower.

Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

Helpful tip: Anytime that I climb any kind of old steps/stairs, I make sure that I place my feet/weight where the supports are. I must say, I have climbed a few steel fire towers, but never on such a windy day. To its credit, this 89 year old tower did not have much shake to it. It held its ground like a champ during the high winds that we encountered.

Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

The Stissing Mountain Fire Tower provides views east to Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Vermont; Southwest to Pennsylvania and New Jersey; and North to the Empire State Plaza in Albany.

Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

View southeast with the true summit of Stissing Mountain in the foreground.

view southeast – Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

View southwest with the true summit of Stissing Mountain in the foreground.

view southwest – Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

View west with the Catskill Mountains visible in the distance. Kaaterskill High Peak near center with the Devils Path Peaks to the left and the Blackhead-area summits to the right.

view west – Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

Similar shot as above but zoomed in.

view west – Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

Thompson Pond directly below to the east. The Nature Conservancy has a trail that is 2.5 miles long that encircles the pond.

view east of Thompson Pond – Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

Looking northeast – Twin Island Lake (upper left), Stissing Pond (center) and part of Thompson Pond (lower right). The Taconic Mountains in the distance, with the states of Vermont and Massachusetts behind them.

view northeast of Twin Island Lake (left) and Stissing Pond

Little Stissing Mountain in the center, with Twin Island Lake and Stissing Pond to the right.

view northeast – Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

After resting from your steep 1,000-foot climb and taking in the panoramic views, descend the tower and at the bottom of the steps, look straight ahead looking for blue blazes on a tree. Follow the blue blazes as they bear right and descend on a narrow footpath, then turn left at the next intersection and descend to a woods road. Turn right onto this rocky road, which descends steeply. After a while, the road bears right, passes rock ledges on the right, and continues to descend more gradually on a less rocky route. You’ll come to a number of forks and intersections; in each case, bear right and stay on the woods road, following the blazes, continuing to descend gradually.

Blue Trail – Stissing Mountain

A massive wall of Taconic volcanic rock to the right of the trail.

Blue Trail – Stissing Mountain

About 0.7 mile from the start of the Blue Trail, near the base of the fire tower, you’ll come to the fork you passed on the climb up the mountain, with the tree in the middle and rocks piled up in front of it. Turn left here, now retracing your steps on the Blue/Orange Trail. At the next fork, bear right and descend the final pitch to Lake Road, where the hike began.

junction with the Orange Trail

Blue/Orange Trail – Stissing Mountain

Stissing Mountain Fire Tower Parking Area – Lake Road

Review:

A very exhilarating hike with the payoff being the marvelous views from the top of the fire tower. Not many people on the trails on the day that we visited. The trails are easy to follow. Just remember that as long as you are seeing blazes on the trees, you are on the right track. I would definitely do this hike again.

Pros:

Stissing Mountain Fire Tower, 360° views from the tower, scenic landscape, quiet area.

Cons:

Better trail map and a freshening up of the blazes would be nice.

Take a hike!

Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

Sources:

Cat Rocks – Pawling, NY

Posted on June 13, 2022

June 12, 2022 – Pawling, NY

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 2.3 miles

Max elevation: 1171 ft. – total elevation gain approximately 683 ft.

Route type: Out-and-back

Map: Appalachian Trail Map – Dutchess County

Free Avenza App Map: Appalachian Trail – Dutchess & Putnam Counties, NY

Trailhead parking: West Dover Road, Pawling, NY 12564

No toilets on site – No entrance or parking fees

Pull-off parking on shoulder for about 10-12 cars

Overview:

Cat Rocks is an eastern facing rock outcrop on West Mountain in Pawling, NY about 1,171 feet above sea level. It provides a birds’ eye view of the Harlem Valley, Litchfield County, Connecticut and beyond.

Cat Rocks – Pawling, NY

The Harlem Valley comprises the towns and hamlets of Pawling, Wingdale, Dover Plains, Wassaic, Millerton, Millbrook, and Beekman. The valley is part of the 2,190-mile-long Appalachian Mountain landscape known as the Wild East. Only an hour train ride from New York City, visitors can explore 16 miles of the A.T. through Dover and Pawling, with hikes ranging in ability from easy rolling terrain to rock scrambles.

Dover and Pawling were designated as an A.T. Community in 2013, known collectively as the Harlem Valley A.T. Community (HVATC).

History:

In 1921, Forester, conservationist and regional planner Benton MacKaye proposed a hiking trail from Georgia to Maine, primarily through the Appalachian and Berkshire mountains, envisioning the Trail as a utopian refuge from urban life. Less than two years later, work began on the great trail, with the first completed section being the stretch from Bear Mountain to its present-day crossing with I-87. It was fully finished in 1937, and though it’s been tweaked in the decades since, it’s essentially the same trek that was envisioned by MacKaye himself.

What began as a vision of Benton MacKaye, was developed by volunteers, and opened as a continuous trail in 1937. It was designated as the first National Scenic Trail by the National Trails System Act of 1968. The Trail is currently protected along more than 99 percent of its course by federal or state ownership of the land or by rights-of-way. Annually, more than 4,000 volunteers contribute more than 185,000 hours of effort on the Appalachian Trail.

Spanning 14 states, from Springer Mountain, Georgia to Mount Katahdin, Maine, the 2,190 mile-plus hiking trail is the longest hiking-only trail in the world. More than three million people hike segments of the trail each year.

Trails Overview:

Throughout its entire length, the AT is marked by white paint blazes that are 2 by 6 inches. Side trails to shelters, viewpoints and parking areas use similarly shaped blue blazes. The Appalachian Trail “AT” Logo is the “A” with the dropdown “T.”

Appalachian Trail – Pawling, NY

The trail is well marked in this section with many fresh white blazes. A brief rock scramble near the beginning can be bypassed via an unmarked footpath to the left, at the base of the steep section.

There is a short section near West Dover Road that is a little overgrown. Near Cat Rocks, where the trail levels off, the underbrush overlaps the narrow footpath. Long pants or some kind of tick repellant is recommended.

Hike Overview:

Cat Rocks in Pawling, the subject of this hike, is not to be confused with Cat Rocks in Warwick, NY. They are both on the Appalachian Trail in NY, but in different towns and counties.

With threats of thunder storms in the forecast, I was looking for a shorter hike than previously planned. The hike to Cat Rocks fit the bill perfectly. There is pull-off parking along the shoulder of West Dover Road (County Route 20), right by the Dover Oak.

Please note: The Appalachian Trail crosses West Dover Road right where the Dover Oak is, but the hike begins on the opposite side of the road from the massive oak tree.

On the day of this hike, we only encountered a handful of people, including two thru-hikers. It was very quiet along the trail with only the sound of birds and the occasional roar of a Harley rolling by on West Dover Road.

This hike is a simple out and back with a stop at the Telephone Pioneers Shelter on the way down.

Dover Oak to Cat Rocks

The majority of the elevation gain is in the first mile on the way to Cat Rocks.

elevation profile – Cat Rocks

The Hike:

The Appalachian Trail crosses the road right at the Dover Oak. This white oak, estimated to be about 300 years old, has a circumference of over 20 feet, and is believed to be the largest blazed tree along the entire AT from Maine to Georgia.

Dover Oak – Pawling, NY

On the other side of the road from the Dover Oak, the trail descends to cross a wet area on rocks and puncheons. A short distance beyond, the trail climbs a jagged rock formation and begins its steady ascent of West Mountain, crossing a stream on a wooden bridge along the way.

Appalachian Trail – Pawling, NY

After climbing for about half a mile, you’ll come to a junction on the left, where a blue-blazed side trail leads to the Telephone Pioneers Shelter. Bear right at the intersection and continue following the white blazes of the AT.

Appalachian Trail – Pawling, NY

turn right on Appalachian Trail

The AT climbs some more, turning left at an interesting looking mass of rock. A short distance later, the trail approaches the grass-covered summit ridge of West Mountain. Just below the summit, a side trail on the right leads a short distance to Cat Rocks – a panoramic east-facing viewpoint from an open rock outcrop. Down below, you can see West Dover Road, with fields beyond.

Appalachian Trail – Pawling, NY

turn right on unmarked footpath

Cat Rocks – Pawling, NY

Please exercise caution on this slanted rock outcrop, especially if the ground is wet. In May 2021 a hiker fell more than 50 feet from this location and had to be rescued by the Pawling Fire Department in what was described as “one of the toughest rescues anyone in our firehouse has ever done.”

Cat Rocks – Pawling, NY

When you are done enjoying the view, retrace your steps back up to the Appalachian Trail and turn left, retracing your steps down West Mountain. When you reach the junction where the side trail leads to the Telephone Pioneers Shelter, bear right and follow the blue-blazed trail, which crosses a stream on rocks and leads in 500 feet to the shelter, constructed by the White Plains Council of the Telephone Pioneers of America in 1988. The picnic table in front of the shelter is a great spot to eat lunch or just take a break.

continue ahead to the Telephone Pioneers Shelter

Telephone Pioneers Shelter – Appalachian Trail

The materials to build this shelter were helicoptered in, via a giant Connecticut Army/Air National Guard Sikorsky S-64 Skycrane. The Pioneers took care of a lot of the advance work, but many local volunteers assisted the Pioneers in this massive 1988 undertaking, including the Pawling Boy Scout troop and Dutchess AT volunteers.

Telephone Pioneers Shelter – Appalachian Trail

The total materials cost for the project (mostly donated) was about $4,000. The wood was not cut in advance, all the notching work was done right on the site.

Telephone Pioneers Shelter – Appalachian Trail

AT Guide: “Built in 1988, with assistance from the White Plains Council of the Telephone Pioneers of America…0.1 mile from A.T. on side trail; accommodates 6; water from stream crossed by side trail to shelter; privy 200 feet from shelter on side trail.”

Telephone Pioneers Shelter – Appalachian Trail

When you’re ready to continue, retrace your steps back to the A.T. and bear right at the junction and continue descending West Mountain on the Appalachian Trail. Just before reaching the rock scramble, turn right on the unmarked bypass trail (unless you want to scramble down) and follow the footpath as it runs parallel to the towering rock formation that you scrambled over earlier.

Appalachian Trail – Pawling, NY

Turn right on the unmarked bypass trail which descends steeply around the base of the rock formation. At the base of the descent, the unmarked footpath climbs to a T-intersection with the Appalachian Trail. Turn right and follow the white blazes back to West Dover Road, where the hike began.

turn right on unmarked bypass trail

unmarked bypass trail

Appalachian Trail – Pawling, NY

Appalachian Trail at West Dover Road – Pawling, NY

Review:

A short but sweet hike on the Appalachian Trail. The far reaching views are outstanding and a great way to spend a few hours outdoors. The initial climb will get your heart pumping, but the reward is worth every step. This is one of those must do hikes in the area. I highly recommend it. The hike could be made longer by continuing on the AT past Cat Rocks or by using a different starting point.

Pros:

Appalachian Trail, well marked and maintained trail, lesser foot traffic than other places with great views, scenic landscape, Dover Oak.

Cons:

Some road noise can be heard.

Take a hike!

Cat Rocks – Pawling, NY

Sources:

Round Hill Loop – Fahnestock State Park

Posted on June 6, 2022

June 5, 2022 – Cold Spring, NY

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 5 miles

Max elevation: 1079 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 776 ft.

Route type: Circuit

Buy Maps (Paper & Avenza): East Hudson Trails Map #103

Free Web Map: Fahnestock State Park Trail Map 2022

Free Avenza App Map: Fahnestock State Park Trail Map 2019

Trailhead parking: Campbell Road, Cold Spring, NY 10516

Ample street parking is available – No bathrooms on site

The park is open year round from sunrise to sunset.

Park Overview:

Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park, also known as Fahnestock State Park, is a 16,171-acre state park located in north central Putnam County with portions in the towns of Carmel, Kent, Philipstown and Putnam Valley. The park is traversed by the Taconic State Parkway, US Route 9, NYS Route 301 and several local roads. Rail stations operated by Metro North Railroad are within ten miles of the park at Garrison, Cold Spring and Beacon. The park does not have a single, formal entrance. The park is managed and maintained by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park

Fahnestock is characterized by parallel ridges and hills that trend in a southwest to northeast direction. Steep slopes are often found on the southeast and northwest aspects of some of these ridges. Elevations range from approximately 400 feet in the lowest area of the park along Clove Creek in the vicinity of U.S. Route 9, to a maximum of over 1300 feet on a ridge west of Canopus Lake. The majority of the park is at elevations greater than 600 feet.

As the peaks of Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park are more hills than mountains, the hiking is generally less strenuous than others in the region. This makes the park a popular destination for casual hikers.

History:

The Fahnestock area was once known for its thriving iron industry that began soon after the American Revolution. The iron ore was smelted locally early in the industry’s development, but later was transported to the West Point Foundry in Cold Spring, which made cannons used in the Civil War. Remnants of the industry and the settlements that grew up around it remain in the stone ruins of former towns, woods roads lined with stone walls, trenches and pits now covered with more than a century’s reforestation, and broken dams that had provided power to operate machinery. After the industry died out, the deforested areas, having served their purpose, were typically sold or left to revert to woodland. Some were converted to agriculture and cleared again resulting in miles of stone walls.

In 1900, Major Clarence Fahnestock (1873-1918), a Manhattan doctor, began purchasing abandoned farms to create a gentleman’s farm and shooting preserve. Fahnestock, an avid hunter, used the land for hunting and fishing purposes and to share the sport with his city friends.

Dr. Fahnestock a Major with the 301st Infantry in the U.S. Army, serving in France, succumbed to pneumonia while treating patients with the disease. At the time of his death, Dr. Fahnestock was the largest real estate holder in Putnam County, owning approximately 6,000 acres, mostly former iron mining properties. This area was known as the “Big Woods.”

In 1929 his brother Dr. Ernest Fahnestock donated 2,400 acres to the state to create a park in honor of his brother. He donated an additional 105 acres for the creation of Canopus Lake. It was stipulated that the park should be named in honor of his late brother. Today, we know this area as the Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park. The Civilian Conservation Corps, (CCC) part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “New Deal,” was responsible for much of the park’s early development in the 1930’s.

Over time, New York State put 6,000 acres off limits to developers and the Open Space Institute has been instrumental in securing additional tracts of land for the park. By purchase or gift, the park has grown substantially over the decades to its current size of over 14,300 acres.

Trails Overview:

With approximately 77 miles of blazed trails, many of them quiet and uncrowded, they can be combined to create loop hikes. The white-blazed Appalachian Trail runs through the park.

This hike incorporates sections of four well marked trails.

School Mountain Road (white- 1.4 miles ) – is a relatively level, multi-use woods road that connects the parking area with several other trails.
Fahnestock Trail (blue – 1.85 miles) – is the main east-west trail north of NY 301. This trail covers a wide variety of terrain, including a very steep climb to the top of Round Hill providing west-facing views.
Round Hill Bypass Trail (green – 0.8 mile) – starts out as a woods road at the junction with the Fahnestock Trail, it narrows to a footpath as it gradually descends, crossing several intermittent streams and stone walls on the way down.
Hubbard Loop Trail (yellow – 0.90 mile) – roughly parallels the School Mountain Road Trail for almost a mile as it climbs gradually on a woods road bordered by stone walls.

Please note: In 2020, as part of the Open Space Institute (OSI) multi-year Fahnestock Improvement Plan, portions of some trails have been rerouted and improved to correct longstanding erosion and water problems. It is advisable that you carry the most up to date trail map that is available.

Trailhead is located on Campbell Road at a brown sign for the “Hubbard Lodge.” Bear left at the fork, continue past a house on the left, and park along the the road.

Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park

Hike Overview:

As the summer hiking season gets underway, it becomes more difficult to find areas to hike that are not overcrowded. Some of the more popular spots can get overwhelmed on the weekends. This hike doesn’t have the most spectacular views or the greatest points of interest, but it has a little bit of many different things that make it enjoyable. The most enjoyable aspect, is that it has sort of a deep woods feel even though you are never that far from two major thoroughfares. Another element is that you won’t run into many people on the trails.

We hiked this lollipop loop counterclockwise, attacking the steep section of Round Hill right at the beginning. After that it was a mostly downhill affair through the extremely quiet woods. The numerous stream crossings are made possible by wooden footbridges built by West Point Cadets.

Round Hill Loop – Fahnestock State Park

As you can see by the elevation profile, it’s a steep climb between the first and second mile, a gain in elevation of about 580 feet.

elevation profile – Round Hill Loop

The Hike:

Walk back along the paved road to a junction with a gravel road on the left. Turn left onto the grassy road at a gate. A triple-white blaze on the gate marks the start of the white-blazed School Mountain Road, and a triple-blue blaze marks the start of the blue-blazed Fahnestock Trail. Continue ahead on the road, which soon crosses two streams on wooden bridges built by civil engineering cadets of the West Point Military Academy.

School Mountain Road – Fahnestock State Park

School Mountain Road Bridge – Fahnestock State Park

In about half a mile, you’ll notice two stone pillars on the left. The road formerly crossed the stream here on a steel-plate bridge, but the bridge was washed out by Hurricane Irene in August 2011. Turn right, descend stone steps, and cross the stream on two steel I-beams.

School Mountain Road – Fahnestock State Park

stone pillars – School Mountain Road

cross the stream on two steel I-beams

Just beyond, the blue-blazed Fahnestock Trail turns sharply right, leaving School Mountain Road. Continue along the blue-blazed trail, which parallels the stream, following an old woods road which has narrowed in places to a footpath. In 0.2 mile, the woods road leaves the stream, and about half a mile from School Mountain Road, the Fahnestock Trail turns left, leaving the woods road, and begins a rather steep climb of Round Hill on switchbacks.

turn right on Fahnestock Trail

Fahnestock Trail – Round Hill

At the top of the steep climb, the trail reaches a limited west-facing viewpoint amid red cedars, with Bull Hill (Mt. Taurus) in the distance. The trail continues up the cedar-studded ridge of Round Hill, climbing gradually.

west-facing viewpoint – Round Hill

Fahnestock Trail – Round Hill

After following the ridge for about half a mile, the trail bears right, descends slightly into a shallow ravine, then climbs more steeply on a winding path. It levels off and soon reaches a southwest-facing viewpoint from a rock ledge to the right of the trail, just below the summit of Round Hill. This is a good spot for a break.

Fahnestock Trail – Round Hill

southwest-facing viewpoint – Round Hill

The Mount Beacon Fire Tower can be seen off in the distance.

Mount Beacon Fire Tower as viewed from Round Hill

After climbing a little more to reach a limited east-facing viewpoint over the hills of Fahnestock State Park, with a communications tower on the right, the trail descends rather steeply to a woods road in a valley.

Fahnestock Trail – Round Hill

limited east-facing viewpoint – Round Hill

Fahnestock Trail – Round Hill

Turn left onto the woods road, the route of the green-blazed Round Hill Bypass Trail. Follow this trail as it narrows to a footpath and continues a gradual descent, crossing several intermittent streams and stone walls on the way down.

Round Hill Bypass Trail – Fahnestock State Park

In three-quarters of a mile, the trail reaches the base of the descent. The trail now bears right, climbs a little, and parallels a scenic stream on the left. Soon, the Round Hill Bypass Trail ends at a junction with the white-blazed School Mountain Road.

Round Hill Bypass Trail – Fahnestock State Park

terminus of Round Hill Bypass Trail

Turn left onto School Mountain Road, which immediately crosses the stream on a wooden footbridge. Continue along School Mountain Road for about a quarter mile, passing through a pleasant valley and paralleling a stone wall and a wide stream.

turn left on School Mountain Road

School Mountain Road Trail Bridge – Fahnestock State Park

School Mountain Road – Fahnestock State Park

After crossing a wooden arch bridge over a tributary stream, you’ll reach a junction where the yellow-blazed Hubbard Loop Trail begins on the right. Bear right and continue on the Hubbard Loop Trail, which climbs gradually on a woods road bordered on the left by a stone wall, passing abandoned farm settlements along the way.

School Mountain Road Trail Bridge – Fahnestock State Park

turn right on Hubbard Loop Trail

Hubbard Loop Trail – Fahnestock State Park

Just beyond the crest of the rise, the trail bears left, leaving the woods road, then rejoins the road just ahead. The road is now bordered by stone walls on both sides.

Hubbard Loop Trail – Fahnestock State Park

After curving to the left, the Hubbard Loop Trail passes between two stone pillars and ends at School Mountain Road, opposite the steel I-beams that you used to cross the stream earlier in the hike. Turn right onto the white-blazed School Mountain Road (also the route of the blue-blazed Fahnestock Trail), retracing your steps back to the starting point of the hike.

terminus of Hubbard Loop Trail

School Mountain Road – Fahnestock State Park

Review:

A really nice hike to get away from the masses. We only encountered a handful of people and they were all going in the opposite direction. Almost the entire route was heavily shaded, which is a plus on a warm day. The trails and junctions are well marked and maintained. If you enjoy a little solitude on the trails, then this is the hike for you.

Pros:

Well marked trails, attractive streams with well designed wooden footbridges, scenic views, lightly trafficked trails, shaded trails.

Cons:

None.

Take a hike!

Round Hill Loop – Fahnestock State Park

Sources:

Stahahe High Peak & Island Pond – Harriman State Park

Posted on May 31, 2022

May 30, 2022 – Southfields, NY

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 4.9 miles

Max elevation: 1,148 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 520 ft.

Route type: Out and back

Buy Maps (Paper & Avenza): Harriman-Bear Mountain Trails Map #119

Free Web Map: Harriman State Park Trail Map 2017

Free Avenza App Map: Harriman State Park Trail Map 2017

Trailhead parking: 1369 Kanawauke Rd, Southfields, NY, 10975

Gravel parking lot – no bathrooms on site

Park Overview:

At 47,527 acres, Harriman State Park, located in Rockland and Orange counties, is the second-largest park in the NYS parks system. It has 31 lakes and reservoirs, over 200 miles of hiking trails, two beaches, two public camping areas, a network of group camps, miles of streams and scenic roads, and scores of wildlife species, vistas and vantage points. Harriman State Park’s major facilities include Lakes Welch, Tiorati and Silvermine, the Anthony Wayne Recreation Area, Sebago Cabins and Beaver Pond Campgrounds.

Harriman State Park

Stahahe High Peak at an elevation of about 1,148 feet above sea level, is located in the western section of Harriman State Park. It is the height of land east of Lake Stahahe. The Mohegan name “STAHAHE” was adopted as early as 1913. It means “stones in the water.” It can be reached by an unmarked trail that goes up from Island Pond Road, starting at about 0.55 mile from County Route 106 (Kanawauke Road). A rock outcrop just past the summit, affords views over Lake Stahahe below, the hills of Sterling Forest to the west and the Harriman hills to the south.

Stahahe High Peak – Harriman State Park

Island Pond is a natural body of water, situated in a large glacially-made pothole, that drains both north and south. To the west is a ridge known as Green Pond Mountain and to the northeast is Island Pond Mountain. Island Pond, with its rocky shore on the north, an island off its east shore which gives the pond its name, and swamps at its south end, is unsurpassed in its scenic beauty.

Island Pond – Harriman State Park

History:

Island Pond and the surrounding hills were part of the estate of iron maker Peter Parrott, acquired in 1885 by Edward H. Harriman. When Edward Harriman’s widow Mary Averell Harriman gave 10,000 acres to the Palisades Interstate Park Commission in 1910, Island Pond was not part of the gift. The family retained the pond for their own use. In 1927, in an exchange of land, Roland Harriman gave Island Pond to the Park.

At the south end of the pond, on a point of land, the Park built a stone cabin for the Park ranger. Major Welch entertained visitors there. The cabin at the south end of Island Pond was burned by vandals on January 1, 1962. The stone ruins are all that remain of the cabin that was built by the Park in 1927.

Ranger Cabin – Island Pond – 1927

The original Island Pond Road was built around 1905. The road came up by switchbacks from the meadows on Harriman’s farm and turned south towards Island Pond.

Trails Overview:

This hike is done using unmarked woods roads and/or trails. Those who are not confident of their route-finding ability might wish to choose another hike.

Island Pond Road although not marked, is easy to follow. It is a wide road that is well defined and intersected by several marked and unmarked trails on the way to Island Pond.

The footpath to Stahahe High Peak is unmarked and the start of the trail is not that easy to find. Although you may encounter some faded blue blazes along the way, it is still difficult to follow in some places. We lost the trail a couple of times, but were helped by using the Avenza maps app, which promptly put us back on the right course.

Hike Overview:

We did a hike to Boston Mine and Island Pond in 2017, but could not find the unmarked trail to Stahahe High Peak. The area around Island Pond is picturesque and tranquil, but on a hot day it can become crowded. There is no swimming here and the park rangers practice enforcement of their “No Swimming” policies. Nevertheless, it makes for a worthwhile destination anytime of the year.

In the warmer months, the forest canopy provides relief from the hot sun. Along with the modest elevation gain, makes this an ideal warm weather hike. The gravel parking lot on CR 106 (Kanawauke Road), at the base of Car Pond Mountain, has room for quite a few vehicles. When we arrived just prior to 8am, there was only about 6 cars in the lot, which also serves as the trailhead for the White Bar Trail, which passes through the lot. At the conclusion of the hike, at about 11:20am, the lot was filled to capacity. I suggest backing in to a parking spot to make it easier to exit upon your return.

We did this hike on Monday Memorial Day 2022.

Stahahe High Peak & Island Pond – Harriman State Park

The elevation profile of this hike is pictured below.

elevation profile – Stahahe High Peak & Island Pond

The Hike:

From the northern end of the parking lot, cross the road and bear left onto the White Bar Trail, blazed with white horizontal rectangles. The trail parallels the road for about 500 feet, then turns right, joining Island Pond Road which comes in from the left, crosses a stream on a metal culvert, and continues on a woods road.

CR 106 designated parking lot – White Bar Trailhead

White Bar Trail – Harriman State Park

The White Bar Trail was first marked in 1922 by the Boy Scouts.

White Bar Trail – Harriman State Park

Island Pond Road/White Bar Trail – Harriman State Park

A short distance beyond, the woods road comes to a Y-intersection where the two trails split. Bear left at the fork to continue ahead on Island Pond Road which begins a gradual ascent.

bear left on Island Pond Road

After the Park acquired Island Pond in 1927, they widened the road to 20 feet. In 1966, the road from Route 210 (now CR 106) to Island Pond was covered with gravel.

Island Pond Road – Harriman State Park

In about 0.70 mile from the start of the hike, the unmarked trail to Stahahe High Peak begins on the left. The start of the trail may be hard to pick up and this is where the Avenza Maps app comes in handy.

unmarked trail – Stahahe High Peak

The trail is a little overgrown in some areas and at times, as it snakes its way uphill, can get a little difficult to follow. I know that we were the first ones on the trail this day as I cleared a lot of spider webs with my face. I strongly suggest using the Avenza Maps app (free version works just fine) and downloading the free NYS park map or purchasing the NY-NJ Trail Conference map (more detailed).

unmarked trail – Stahahe High Peak

Stahahe High Peak – Harriman State Park

At the summit of Stahahe High Peak, there are some views, but you want to continue just a bit farther as the trail descends a little to a flat grassy area just below the summit.

Stahahe High Peak – Harriman State Park

A rock outcrop just past the summit, provides views over Lake Stahahe below, the hills of Sterling Forest to the west and the Harriman hills to the south. You have now hiked about 1.3 miles. This makes a good spot to take a break.

Stahahe High Peak – Harriman State Park

Lake Stahahe was called Car Pond on old maps, but there is no record of the origin of this name. It is a natural lake that was originally 17 acres. The lake was enlarged in 1914 by the construction of three small dams (still visible below the surface). In 1918, a larger dam was completed, bringing the lake to its present size of 88 acres.

Stahahe High Peak – Harriman State Park

When you are ready to continue, retrace your steps on the unmarked trail back to Island Pond Road and turn left.

unmarked trail – Stahahe High Peak

Stahahe High Peak – Harriman State Park

unmarked trail – Stahahe High Peak

As you continue north on Island Pond Road, in about 0.17 mile, the white-blazed Nurian Trail joins from the right and in 200 feet, departs to the left as the yellow-blazed Dunning Trail joins from the left and departs to the right in about 175 yards. Stay on the wide woods road that you have been following.

Island Pond Road – Harriman State Park

In about another 500 yards, the Arden-Surebridge Trail (A-SB Trail) comes in from the right, joins Island Pond Road and almost immediately turns left. When the joint A-SB Trail/Island Pond Road turn left, continue straight ahead onto another unmarked woods road.

Continue straight on the woods road

Follow this woods road for about 0.4 mile to the southern end of Island Pond where you’ll find the stone ruins of an old ranger cabin.

woods road to Island Pond

These stone ruins are all that remain of the cabin built by the Park in 1927 for the use of Park rangers.

stone cabin ruins at Island Pond

A footpath to the right of the cabin ruins, leads to a point of land with an expansive view of Island Pond. This makes a great place for a break to enjoy this idyllic setting in nature.

Island Pond – Harriman State Park

When you are done soaking in all this beauty, retrace your steps on the woods road and continue straight when it meets Island Pond Road. Follow Island Pond Road south for about 1.5 miles. Island Pond Road ends where it meets County Route 106 at a gate. Here, the White Bar Trail turns left, parallels CR 106 for about 500 feet, crosses the road and reaches the parking area, where the hike began.

unmarked woods road from Island Pond

Island Pond Road – Harriman State Park

Review:

A great hike to do on a warm day. The trails are almost entirely shaded on this route and the minimal elevation gain makes for a scenic and tranquil hike. The sound of motorcycles can be heard the closer you get to CR 106, but all in all a great day in the woods. We didn’t encounter any other hikers during our time there even though the parking lot was filled to capacity when we returned.

Pros:

View from Stahahe High Peak, Island Pond Road, Island Pond, lightly trafficked at times.

Cons:

Some road noise from CR 106 can be heard.

Take a hike!

Stahahe High Peak & Island Pond – Harriman State Park

Sources:

Harriman State Park
Myles, William J.; Chazin, Daniel. Harriman Trails: A Guide and History . New York – New Jersey Trail Conference. Kindle Edition.

Oscawana Ridge Trail – Fahnestock State Park

Posted on May 22, 2022

May 21, 2022 – Putnam Valley, NY

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 4.2 miles

Max elevation: 918 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 756 ft.

Route type: Out and back

Buy Maps (Paper & Avenza): East Hudson Trails Map 2023

Free Web Map: Fahnestock State Park Trail Map 2022

Free Avenza App Map: Fahnestock State Park Trail Map 2019

Trailhead parking: 4 Summit Ave, Putnam Valley, NY 10579

Limited street parking is available. No street parking from from November 15 to April 15

No bathrooms on site

Overview:

Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park

The Oscawana Ridge Trail is located on the southern section of Candlewood Hill in Putnam Valley. Candlewood Hill is a long ridge with its summit at an approximate elevation of 986 feet above sea level. It is located at the southeast end of Fahnestock State Park and is one of the park’s most prominent peaks. The southern portion of Candlewood Hill rises out of the western banks of Oscawana Lake.

History:

In 2015, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation completed the purchase of 35 acres in Putnam Valley, protecting a ridge above Oscawana Lake from the impacts of residential development. The property will allow for the establishment of a public trailhead to facilitate development of trails in the southernmost section of Fahnestock Park, as designated in the park’s 2010 master plan.

The acreage was identified by the Hudson Highlands Land Trust as a Legacy Landscape conservation priority. The land was acquired for $414,000 from the Environmental Protection Fund.

In August 2021, a NY/NJ Trail Conference volunteer crew completed the new 2-mile-long Oscawana Ridge Trail on Candlewood Hill in the southern part of Fahnestock State Park near Oscawana Lake. The NY/NJ Trail Conference is now working with park staff to lay out a future loop trail down to the shore of Lake Oscawana. If you’d like to help build this trail when it’s approved, you can learn more about volunteering here.

Trails Overview:

The Oscawana Ridge Trail is marked with New York State Parks yellow plastic discs. It is about 2 miles long and mostly runs along old woods roads up on the ridge of Candlewood Hill. It is criss-crossed by numerous footpaths and/or woods roads that are not on the trail map.

Oscawana Ridge Trail – Fahnestock State Park

The trail has several different points of entry. On this hike, the trail is accessed at the intersection of Lake View Drive and Summit Avenue in Putnam Valley. There is limited street parking available, but not during the winter. According to the Town of Putnam Valley website: “No vehicle shall be parked on any highway, street or road in the Town of Putnam Valley from November 15 to April 15 of the subsequent year, unless otherwise posted.”

Oscawana Ridge Trailhead – Fahnestock State Park

The trail is well blazed and relatively easy to follow. For most of its length, the Oscawana Ridge Trail travels on different woods roads, but at times departs the woods roads for footpaths along more interesting areas. Most of the intersections are well marked, but you have to keep your eyes open for the yellow blazes.

Hike Overview:

I hiked the Candlewood Hill Trail in June of 2021 and came back a week later to explore the southern section. That was about two months before they blazed the Oscawana Ridge Trail. The southern section has countless footpaths and/or woods roads that one can explore. Once I heard about the new trail, I made a return trip, but accessed the trail via its southernmost entry point.

The day of this hike, it was very foggy and there were no views to be had. I incorporated images that I captured in June 2021 from the same viewpoints traversed on this hike. I also walked right by a coiled up Copperhead that was right on the trail. My friend pointed it out after I walked right past it about three feet away.

This hike is an out and back, but could be combined with unmarked woods roads/trails to complete a loop.

We hiked the trail from end to end.

Oscawana Ridge Trail – Fahnestock State Park

The trail gains elevation gradually. It felt like an easy walk up to the ridge.

elevation profile – Oscawana Ridge Trail

With the exception of the open rock slabs along the upper slopes, the trail is mostly well shaded by the forest canopy and offers some protection from the hot sun.

The Hike:

The hike begins at the intersection of Lake View Drive and Summit Avenue, right near the DEAD END sign. This is the southernmost point of entry to the Oscawana Ridge Trail. The trail starts out as a footpath, but soon turns left and widens to a woods road as it heads north.

Oscawana Ridge Trailhead – Fahnestock State Park

Oscawana Ridge Trail – Fahnestock State Park

The trail passes many junctions with unmarked roads and footpaths so it is imperative to keep your eyes open for the yellow blazes. At the three-way junction below, the trail turns left and immediately turns right, leaving the woods road and climbs the hill on a footpath.

Oscawana Ridge Trail – Fahnestock State Park

The trail soon widens again and gradually climbs the ridge, passing through stone walls that once served as boundary markers along property lines or as fences to keep animals in (or sometimes out). Farmers needed to clear rocks from their fields for plowing, so the walls served a dual purpose.

Oscawana Ridge Trail – Fahnestock State Park

One particular wall along the trail is much wider than the others and stretches quite a distance to the west.

Oscawana Ridge Trail – Fahnestock State Park

Most of the junctions are very well marked, but if you are not paying attention, you can easily miss your turn.

Oscawana Ridge Trail – Fahnestock State Park

The trail continues north over undulating terrain.

Oscawana Ridge Trail – Fahnestock State Park

I walked right by this Copperhead which was well camouflaged in the leaves. Even when I went to photograph it, it was hard to find with my lens.

Copperhead – Oscawana Ridge Trail

Soon the trail climbs to the height of land, around 918 ft. above sea level. The actual summit of Candlewood Hill (986 ft.) is farther north and not reached on this hike.

Oscawana Ridge Trail – Fahnestock State Park

The trail comes to an open area with expansive west-facing views over Bell Hollow and beyond from rock outcrops. You can leave the trail and walk along the the cliff’s edge for the multiple viewpoints in this area.

Please note: Due to fog on the day of this hike, the images below of the views were captured on June 27, 2021. All the images below accurately represent the views on the Oscawana Ridge Trail on a clear day.

Oscawana Ridge Trail June 2021 – Fahnestock State Park

The far reaching views are the hills of Fahnestock in the foreground with the higher hills in the distance being the Hudson Highlands.

Oscawana Ridge Trail June 2021 – Fahnestock State Park

In the image below, a sliver of the Hudson River is visible on the far left.

Oscawana Ridge Trail June 2021 – Fahnestock State Park

There is a rock outcrop on the opposite side, right on the trail with an east-facing view over Oscawana Lake and the surrounding hills. The view is probably much better during leaf-off season.

Oscawana Ridge Trail June 2021 – Fahnestock State Park

This makes for a good turn around spot if you only came here for the views. It’s about 0.35 mile to the end of the Oscawana Ridge Trail and a drop in elevation of about 160 ft. which you will have to make up on your way back. If you want to do the entire Oscawana Ridge Trail, continue following the yellow blazes north.

Oscawana Ridge Trail – Fahnestock State Park

From the east-facing viewpoint, the trail begins a steady descent until it reaches its terminus at a junction with the Candlewood Hill Trail.

Oscawana Ridge Trail – Fahnestock State Park

If you want to explore the Candlewood Hill Trail, turn right and climb towards the summit. The section of trail that heads downhill, ends at Bell Hollow Road in about 0.3 mile. Otherwise, this is the turn around spot and the halfway point of the hike. You will now be retracing your steps back the way you came.

Oscawana Ridge Trail – Fahnestock State Park

Follow the Oscawana Ridge Trail back up to the ridge, past the scenic viewpoints, descending the ridge and follow the woods road back to Lake View Drive, where the hike began.

Oscawana Ridge Trail – Fahnestock State Park

On our way back, the Copperhead was in the same exact spot.

Copperhead – Oscawana Ridge Trail

Oscawana Ridge Trail – Fahnestock State Park

Review:

A really nice hike with some decent views. The highlight of this hike is that we didn’t see a single soul during our time on the trail. Since parking is limited on Lake View Drive, this hike can be done starting at the north end of Bell Hollow Road where it enters the park. Follow the red-blazed Candlewood Hill Trail for about 0.3 miles until it turns left off a steep uphill woods road. The yellow-blazed Oscawana Ridge Trail continues on the road and climbs the ridge. Overall this was a a good day spent in the woods and well worth the effort.

Pros:

Scenic landscape, nice views, lightly trafficked trail, a myriad of woods roads and footpaths for one to explore.

Cons:

Parking is limited.

Take a hike!

Oscawana Ridge Trail – Fahnestock State Park

Sources:

Southford Falls State Park

Posted on May 15, 2022

May 14, 2022 – Southbury, Connecticut

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 2.5 miles

Max elevation: 663 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 452 ft.

Route type: Circuit

Map: Southford Falls State Park Trail Map

Avenza Map: Southford Falls State Park Avenza Trail Map

Trailhead parking: 175 Quaker Farms Rd, Southbury, CT 06488

No entrance or parking fees – Bathrooms, Grills, Picnic Tables

Gravel parking lot for about 35 cars

The park is open from 8am to sunset.

Park Overview:

Southford Falls State Park is a public recreation area encompassing 169 acres in the towns of Oxford and Southbury, Connecticut. The state park offers fishing, hiking, a waterfall and a covered bridge over Eightmile Brook. Southford Falls was established as a state park in 1932 and is managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

Southford Falls State Park

Southford Falls

Burr Arch Covered Bridge – Southford Falls State Park

The State Park has hiking trails, picnicking facilities including charcoal grills, skiing and ice-skating in winter, field sports, and fishing. It is a designated Trout Park, stocked weekly with trout from the state’s fish hatcheries.

History:

The sound of the water pouring over the rocks below the dam continues non-stop. It speaks of a time when the plunging waters were the power for Oxford’s early industrial history.

Oxford’s industry boomed with the introduction of Merino sheep here by David Humphreys. The fine wool from the sheep was ideal for making woolen cloth. In 1805 Enos Candee built a fulling mill at the top of the falls. Here Candee provided the cleaning of the raw wool in preparation for the local farmers to spin and weave their wool.

The waterpower was steady because this area is a major drop in elevation from the water’s source at Lake Quassapaug. The force of the water at that point could be used to harness 275 horsepower of rushing water for the mill.

Before long others started building mills in the area. Daniel Abbot first set up a flour mill there. By 1849, he took over Candee’s old fulling mill. There he made paper, drying it outdoors in the sun. Later he built a large building with a loft for drying the paper.

During the Civil War era, the falls were the center of half a dozen industries. R.B. Limburner and Brothers had a paper mill above the falls. Hurd and Bartlett operated another paper mill below the falls. In addition, the area supported an axe factory, a cutlery shop, a gristmill for grinding grain, and a sawmill.

The Limburner mill was sold to White-Wells Company for $15,000. Just five years later in 1875, it was sold to F.A. Keeney for $24,000. The mill burned in 1881.

A new company, the Southford Paper Co., was formed. The owners built a new brick building at a cost of $200,000, supplied with state-of-the-art machinery. The company could not meet its expenses and went bankrupt. White-Wells regained ownership of the facility.

In 1901, the Diamond Match Company purchased the mill to manufacture paperboard, used in its matchboxes and matchbooks. A workforce of 85 to 100 people operated the plant until 1923.

Six months later, production was stopped after a fire destroyed the facility. Three large buildings were destroyed. Though the water rushed through continually, no more mills were built.

Southford Falls was established as a state park in 1932 and encompasses 169 acres. Southford’s name is a blending of Southbury and Oxford, the two towns that the park is located in. The first parcels of land were acquired by the State of Connecticut in 1926. Then in 1932, the Whittemore Company donated the upper portion of Papermill Pond and Eightmile Brook to the State of Connecticut. By 1948, all land acquisitions had been completed.

Little if any traces of the former mills remain today except for the foundation ruins of the Diamond Match Company.

In 1934, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) helped reclaim the land, clearing the wreckage from the gutted factory that lay strewn about.

Today, the park is used for passive recreation. It contains a reproduction of a bridge built by Theodore Burr. This Torrington native patented the laminated arch bridge in 1804. Dozens of them were built in the Northeast, and he got a royalty for each one. One of his first arched bridges crossed the Hudson River at Waterford, N.Y. It stood in use for more than a century.

The reproduction was built in 1972, with artist Eric Sloane as design consultant and retired DEP carpenter Ed Palmer as builder.

Trails Overview:

Southford Falls State Park features a small network (about 2 miles) of both marked and unmarked trails alongside Papermill Pond and Eightmile Brook. The trails’ highlights include a covered bridge, an observation tower and a waterfall. The Red Trail begins near the park entrance and loops around the southern section of the park, back to papermill Pond, with a .1 mile out and back to the observation tower mid-way.

Observation Tower – Southford Falls State Park

The main trail in the park is the Red Trail as depicted on the park’s trail map. The problem is that there are red blazes everywhere, which makes it difficult to figure out what trail you are actually on. Some of the blazes are extremely faded which may signify that the trail has been rerouted and/or no longer in use, but who knows.

There are more trails that are not represented on the trail map (dated April 25, 2011), most of which are marked with red blazes or not marked at all. As you get farther away from the main section of the park, the trails become harder to follow and show signs of neglect.

The trail that leads to the observation tower is not blazed red as shown on the map. It is marked with blue blazes.

My advice is to utilize the free Avenza Maps app, utilizing the official, but dated trail map to navigate your way around, otherwise you may be left scratching your head throughout the hike.

Hike Overview:

Having done a short hike to Nonnewaug Falls early morning, we decided to drive 12.5 miles, about 20 minutes, to Southford Falls State Park to do another short hike. I have visited the park a couple of times in the past, but just to view the falls while enjoying a picnic. This time we hiked the trail to the observation tower. For a relatively small park, it has enough points of interest to keep one engaged while there.

We lost the trail several times near the beginning as we followed faded red blazes that led nowhere. Several times as the trail came to a fork, both forks were marked with red blazes, making it really confusing. The Avenza Maps app came in really handy at this point and helped us get on the correct trail. It’s a free app that works with the official park maps. I highly recommend this app for beginners and more experienced hikers as well.

The closer you are to the main section of the park, the easier the trails are. Some sections of the park are surprisingly rugged and good hiking boots are recommended. We began the hike at the parking lot and checked the waterfall first, crossed the covered bridge, then did the loop clockwise.

Southford Falls State Park

This hike is on the lower side of moderate, but it still has several short, steep ascents.

elevation profile – Southford Falls State Park

The Hike:

With your back to Quaker Farms Road, turn right onto a gravel path that parallels Papermill Pond. You may want to stroll over to the pond and enjoy the scenic setting.

Southford Falls State Park

Papermill Pond – Southford Falls State Park

When you are ready to proceed, follow the gravel path to the kiosk. The Red Trail begins at the Kiosk, going to the left and crossing the footbridge just above the falls, and also straight along the western side of Southford Falls. So technically, either way that you decide to go will bring you back to this spot if you follow the red blazes.

Southford Falls State Park

millstone – Southford Falls State Park

We wanted to check out Southford Falls first so we followed the trail downhill from the top of the falls to the covered bridge, stopping to enjoy the scenery.

Southford Falls

Burr Arch Covered Bridge – Southford Falls State Park

Eightmile Brook – Southford Falls State Park

After crossing the covered bridge, the Red Trail splits and we turned left on the gravel road, marked with red blazes. The trail now heads upstream along the eastern side of the brook and falls.

Red Trail – Southford Falls State Park

Southford Falls

The sign at the east end of the footbridge over Papermill Pond.

Red Trail – Southford Falls State Park

We followed the gravel road past the picnic pavilion, not seeing any more red blazes.

Red Trail – Southford Falls State Park

picnic pavilion along the Red Trail

View across Papermill Pond from the picnic pavilion.

view of Papermill Pond from picnic pavilion

View northwest towards the parking lot from the picnic pavilion.

view of Papermill Pond from picnic pavilion

I am pretty sure that the official Red Trail runs along the eastern shore of Papermill Pond and ducks into the woods at the clearing that is visible between the grill and table. Two people are visible walking towards the left arrow just over the right side of the table.

picnic table and grill near picnic pavilion

We instead walked through a bigger clearing and made our way into the woods.

picnic table and grill near picnic pavilion

Red Trail – Southford Falls State Park

Seeing red, although faded blazes, I figured we were on the right track. After following the red blazes to several dead ends, I took out my phone and turned on the Avenza Maps app. We then took an unmarked trail (not on the trail map) downhill until we met up with the official Red Trail, and turned right.

Red Trail – Southford Falls State Park

The trail then becomes easier to follow as the blazes are not as faded and are more abundant. The trail climbs steadily on a moderate grade with several dips in elevation.

Red Trail – Southford Falls State Park

As we approached this area, I could see this large burl through the leaves, and for a moment thought that it was a bear.

Red Trail – Southford Falls State Park

About 0.4 mile before the junction with the blue-blazed Tower Trail, the Red Trail splits. The left fork continues straight and the right fork climbs the hill. We took the right fork thinking that it was the Tower Trail (the trail map shows it as red), but after climbing, the trail descends and joins the official Red Trail again. Turn right at the correct Tower Trail which is now blazed blue.

Tower Trail – Southford Falls State Park

You may see a blue “T” along the way, signifying the “Tower Trail.”

Tower Trail – Southford Falls State Park

Follow the blue blazes for about 175 yards (0.1 mile), until its terminus near the base of the observation tower.

Tower Trail – Southford Falls State Park

The 25-foot metal and wood tower once provided nice views of the area, but the trees have since grown up around it and there isn’t much of a view anymore.

Observation Tower – Southford Falls State Park

The only semblance of a view is to the southwest.

view from tower – Southford Falls State Park

When you are done admiring the “view,” carefully climb down the tower and retrace your steps on the Tower Trail to the junction with the Red Trail.

Observation Tower – Southford Falls State Park

Tower Trail – Southford Falls State Park

terminus of Tower Trail – Southford Falls State Park

Turn right on the Red Trail as it begins a steady descent, reaching the boardwalk along Eightmile Brook in about 0.35 mile.

Red Trail – Southford Falls State Park

From here, the trail is relatively flat and quite scenic. The 212-foot long wooden boardwalk runs along the eastern bank of the picturesque Eightmile Brook.

boardwalk along Eightmile Brook

Red Trail – Southford Falls State Park

Eightmile Brook – Southford Falls State Park

The Red Trail then follows the gravel road for about another 270 yards before reaching the covered bridge.

Red Trail – Southford Falls State Park

Burr Arch Covered Bridge – Southford Falls State Park

After crossing the covered bridge, follow the trail uphill past Southford Falls and Papermill Pond, returning to the parking lot, where the hike began.

Red Trail – Southford Falls State Park

Southford Falls

Papermill Pond – Southford Falls State Park

Southford Falls State Park

Review:

A really nice park to visit anytime of the year. Obviously, if your main objective is to view the waterfall, then during the Spring thaw or after heavy rains is a more ideal time to visit. If your main goal is to hike or check out the view from the observation tower, there are much better places with better trails and views. But if you are looking for an all around enjoyable day outdoors with multiple points of interest, then Southford Falls State Park is definitely the place.

Pros:

Southford Falls, Burr Arch Covered Bridge, observation tower, boardwalk, Eightmile Brook.

Cons:

Trails are difficult to follow, needs an updated trail map.

Take a hike!

Southford Falls State Park

Sources:

Nonnewaug Falls

Posted on May 9, 2022

May 8 & 14, 2022 – Bethlehem, Connecticut

Difficulty: Easy

Length: Approximately 1.3 miles

Max elevation: 637 ft. – total elevation gain approximately 241 ft.

Route type: Lollipop Loop

Maps: Nonnewaug Falls Trail Map

Trailhead parking: Falls Rd, Bethlehem, CT 06751

No toilets on site – No entrance or parking fees

Dirt and gravel parking lot for about 10-12 cars

Overview:

Nonnewaug Falls, sometimes called Leever Falls, is located in the Nonnewaug Falls Open Space Preserve. The falls itself are in the Town of Woodbury, but the trailhead parking is located in Bethlehem, Connecticut. The East Nonnewaug River bends through sections of farmland in the northeast corner of Woodbury, flowing through a shadowy hemlock forest, where it drops over bedrock into an idyllic, moss-filled gorge.

Nonnewaug Falls

The main falls is 18-20 feet high, cascading dramatically into the mouth of the gorge. Two smaller cascades, close to one another, are located several hundred feet downstream where the ravine narrows considerably. The upper of the two lower cascades is 4 feet high, followed by a 6 foot cascade. However, views of these lower cascades are currently extremely limited.

Please Note: Swimming is strictly prohibited here. Exploration of the falls is limited to the side of the river you arrived at as the other side is private property. Although water is likely to flow over the falls year round, high water showcases them best.

History:

Nonnewaug Falls was formed by glacial melt streaming over bedrock, carving a path into the landscape during the Last Glacial Period (LGP aka last ice age). So named for Chief Nonnewaug, the final leader of the territory’s long-vanished aboriginal inhabitants, Nonnewaug Falls has been a familiar and locally-celebrated landmark for nearly two centuries. Woodcuts published in the 1800’s portray Nonnewaug Falls with much the same rugged and secluded character that it possesses today.

On the opposite bank near the top of the falls, is a bronze tablet mounted on the face of a rock outcrop. It was placed there in 1916 by members of the Nonnewaug tribe of Seymour to memorialize the chief. It reads: “To the memory of Nonnewaug last chief of his tribe, friend of his white neighbors, who sleeps with his fathers near these falls which bear his name.” Nonnewaug is Mohican for “dry land.”

Nonnewaug Falls

The legend is that the old Sachem Nonnewaug, distraught at the sale of his ancestral lands to the English by the young men of the tribe, jumped off the rocks at the top of the falls, was killed, and buried at the scene.

In 2002, Dr. Harold Leever (1914–2001) willed 50 acres of land at the falls to the Town of Woodbury and 12 acres of land to the Bethlehem Land Trust to ensure the waterfall’s preservation for perpetuity.

Trails Overview:

The trail map is not very helpful, but I used the Gaia GPS app with the “Outdoors” map layer. It shows the trails and will lead you in the right direction.

Nonnewaug Falls is reached by a fairly easy and pleasant walk on wide woods roads, through the forest and past open fields. There are several ways to get to the falls, but none are clearly marked.

One guide book reads: “There is a kiosk at the parking area that will show you a trail map. In addition, red posts have been put in place along the route to help guide you to the falls on the proper trails.” Neither is accurate. There is no longer a kiosk at the trailhead, at least I did not see one, and I looked for it. As for the red posts, I saw two and a couple of red blazes on trees, but nothing that will clearly lead you to Nonnewaug Falls.

Hike Overview:

Having done a short hike at Orenaug Park, we decided to check out Nonnewaug Falls as well. It is a short 12 minute drive (6.7 miles) from Orenaug Park to the Nonnewaug Falls trailhead. These two short hikes are ideal to be done in conjunction with one another.

We visited Nonnewaug Falls twice, just a week apart. The first time I couldn’t find the bronze plaque, but I didn’t really look for it. The second time, I was able to locate it. We took a different route each time. On the first visit, we took a steeper route which was a loop. The second time we did an out-and-back, a much easier route. Both routes were about the same distance. The only difference was the loop had about 100 more feet of elevation gain.

Nonnewaug Falls Loop

If you are looking for just an easy stroll to see the waterfall, then the route below is the one for you.

Nonnewaug Falls out-and-back

The Hike:

The hike begins at the parking area at the end of Falls Road. From the parking area, proceed past the metal gate and follow the unpaved road east, crossing a bridge that spans the Nonnewaug River. In about 500 feet, the unpaved road comes to a fork. Take the left fork and follow the rocky road steeply uphill.

Nonnewaug Falls Open Space Preserve

bear left at the fork for the loop

Nonnewaug Falls Open Space Preserve

At the top of the rise as the old road approaches the powerlines, bear right at another fork and follow the road as it heads into the woods. In about another 400 yards (from the powerlines), the road reaches a T-intersection with another woods road. Turn left on the woods road, passing two massive old Oak trees.

Nonnewaug Falls Open Space Preserve

In a short distance, the road reaches an open field. Turn right, crossing the field and enter the forest once again. The woods road splits once it ducks into the forest. Take the left fork (there is a red post at this junction) and continue downhill to the site of the falls.

Nonnewaug Falls Open Space Preserve

The best view of Nonnewaug Falls is from the base of it. This entails descending a steep slope where the soil is wet and the ground may be unstable. Hiking poles work really well here.

Nonnewaug Falls Open Space Preserve

Nonnewaug Falls

Looking downstream from the base of the falls.

Nonnewaug Falls

William Cothren wrote in his “History of Ancient Woodbury,” published in 1854: “Viewed as a whole, it is as wild and romantic a place as can anywhere be found in our country.”

Nonnewaug Falls

The red circle denotes where the bronze plaque is located.

Nonnewaug Falls

Climbing out of the gorge is easier than going down.

Nonnewaug Falls

Looking upstream from near the top of the falls.

East Nonnewaug River

When you have had your fill of nature’s beauty, retrace your steps past the old Oak trees then continue straight on the woods road, passing the junction that you came from earlier.

Nonnewaug Falls Open Space Preserve

When you arrive at a Y-intersection, take the left fork as it runs along the top of the field, close to the tree line with broad views over the surrounding countryside. Soon the trail ducks back into the woods, passing the junction from earlier in the hike. Bear left and follow the woods road back to the parking area, where the hike began.

Nonnewaug Falls Open Space Preserve

Review:

A really pleasant hike with the payoff being the gorgeous waterfall. On both occasions that we visited this spot, we’ve seen few people, mostly when we were on our way out. We were there about 11am the first time and 8:30am the second time. Since this is a short hike, it could be combined with another hike in the area.

Pros:

Gorgeous waterfall, scenic landscape, historical features, somewhat of a hidden gem.

Cons:

No signage or trail blazes.

Take a hike!

Nonnewaug Falls

Sources:

Orenaug Park

Posted on May 8, 2022

May 8, 2022 – Woodbury, Connecticut

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 2.5 miles

Max elevation: 587 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 553 ft.

Route type: Circuit

Maps: Orenaug Park Trail Map

Trailhead parking: Across the street from 30 Park Road, Woodbury, CT 06798

No toilets on site – No entrance or parking fees

Roadside parking for about 10 cars

Park Overview:

Orenaug Park is a striking cluster of trap rock cliffs, with blazed trails and a steel observation tower, from which six surrounding towns can be seen. On the east side of the Park is a natural stone amphitheater, known as Bethel Rock, where, according to tradition, the first religious services were held.

The 78.45-acre town park is located on a basalt (trap rock) ridge overlooking the Pomperaug River Valley in Woodbury, Connecticut that is used for passive recreation. The tract is comprised of rock walls that rise 140 feet into the air, flanked by stately old pines and ravines with sloping hillsides that are carpeted with ferns and mosses.

Orenaug Park is owned and managed by the Town of Woodbury and is open year-round from dawn to dusk.

Orenaug Park

The centerpiece of the park, a 67′ 4″ steel observation tower, at an elevation of 520 feet above sea level, offers 360° views of Woodbury and the Pomperaug River Valley.

Orenaug Park Observation Tower

At the Park Road entrance, the two pillars are constructed of colorful stones from all 50 states. The 127-year-old stone pillars, received a major restoration in 2020. Longtime Woodbury resident Chris Swainbank began the volunteer project back in August of 2020 and spent more than 60 hours fixing up the pillars and the 180-foot stone wall that runs along Park Road.

Orenaug Park

History:

In 1892, Susan B. Shove conveyed land to the Town of Woodbury, to be used as a park. Orenaug Park has been owned and maintained by the Town for the benefit and use by the public since that time.

Orenaug Park started as a combination of several pieces of land put together over the course of several years by Susan Shove, with the help of William Cothren. What began as 11 acres, grew to an area of over 60 acres when the land was officially presented by Mrs. Shove to the Town of Woodbury for use as a park in 1892. It has since grown to almost 80 acres.

The name Orenaug comes from the Pootatuck, the Native American tribe which resided in this area before being settled by colonists from Stratford, CT in the 1670’s, meaning “sunny place.”

This is the original wooden observation tower built by William Cothren on his land in what is now Orenaug Park. This Tower, which was built before 1859, collapsed in a heavy windstorm in 1901, as the current tower was being constructed.

Orenaug Tower 1898

Built in 1901, the 67-foot 4-inch Orenaug Tower looms over Orenaug Park’s hilly landscape. The tower was commissioned by Susan B. Shove as an observation tower so residents could view the town landscape, which was much more visible in the 1900’s when the town was significantly deforested.

This is a postcard of the Orenaug Park Observation Tower. This tower was built in 1901 to replace the wooden tower built by William Cothren. This tower still stands today, and provides 360° views of Woodbury and several surrounding towns.

Orenaug Park Observation Tower

The tower began to show signs of rust and wear, and in 2018 the town refurbished the Orenaug Park Observation Tower and gave it a fresh coat of paint.

Orenaug Park Observation Tower

Today several hiking trails wind through the hilly park as well as a rock-climbing area for experienced climbers. The park can be accessed from three locations, all leading to the hiking trails, Bethel Rock and an observation tower from which up to six surrounding towns can be seen.

Side Note: I reached out to the Woodbury Historical Society for more information, but they did not know any of the history of the park. I also reached out by phone and email to the Recreation Department and the local library. They both promised to call me back, but neither did.

Trails Overview:

Orenaug Park has three access points/trailheads. The main entrance is on Park Road, flanked by two stone columns with stones that have been cultivated from all 50 states. The red-blazed Fire Trail begins there. The second access point is from the back of the Woodbury Senior Community Center, which utlizes the orange-blazed Tower Trail. The third is on Park Lane, which is the trailhead for the yellow-blazed Bethel Rock Trail.

There are almost 2 miles of well marked trails in Orenaug Park as well as some unmarked footpaths that travel through the rugged trap rock hills.

There are substantial blowdowns throughout the park that have to be navigated around/under. In some cases the trail has been rerouted around the larger blowdowns, when possible.

Fire Trail (red blazes – 0.55-mile) ~ is the main entrance and begins on Park Road between the two stone pillars. It follows an old woods road north up to the steel observation tower, where it ends.

Tower Trail (orange blazes – 0.40-mile) ~ begins behind the Woodbury Senior Community Center and connects to the Fire Trail, just below the tower. We did not hike this trail so I don’t have any insight on it.

Loop Trail (blue blazes – 0.43-mile) ~ begins and ends at the Yellow Trail. It descends into the valley, surrounded by high rock walls. A beautiful area to hike and should not be skipped. We spotted a Black Bear on a cliff above watching us, as we stood in the ravine.

Bethel Rock Trail (yellow blazes – 0.50-mile) ~ begins near the observation tower at a junction with the Fire Trail (red blazes) and winds its way through the forest with some minor ups and downs. It passes by the historic Bethel Rock and concludes at Park Lane (a gravel road).

There are plans for additional trails to be cut and marked.

Hike Overview:

Being a fan of observation towers, hiking Orenaug Park is a no brainer. Although the tower was the attraction, the rest of the park is worth exploring as well. The high rock walls that loom over the small valleys in the park, dominate the landscape and give the area a prehistoric feeling. Hiking through this boulder strewn territory is like being transported back in time.

Loop Trail – Orenaug Park

The hike was done clockwise beginning and ending at the pond.

Orenaug Park

The elevation profile of the hike is below.

elevation profile – Orenaug Park

We didn’t encounter any other hikers during our time spent on the trails, but did spot a Black Bear eye-balling us from a cliff while on the Loop Trail. It ran off when I pointed it out to my friend.

Since this is a short hike, it could be done in conjunction with Nonnewaug Falls. It is a short 12 minute drive (6.7 miles) from Orenaug Park to the Nonnewaug Falls trailhead.

The Hike:

We parked alongside Crystal Lake (aka Silver Lake, Webb’s Pond) which has roadside parking for about 10 cars if everyone parks correctly. This is an official parking area for Orenaug Park and is just about 150 feet west from the the main entrance on Park Road. The small lake is public property even though it appears to be part of a residence.

Crystal Lake near the entrance to Orenaug Park

The hike starts on the red-blazed Fire Trail, which begins at the two stone pillars. The two stone pillars at the fire trail entrance are made of 50 stones, each one being from a different state. This gateway was donated and built by Susan B. Shove in 1895.

Park Road entrance – Orenaug Park

The Fire Trail begins heading uphill on a woods road, past a kiosk with a trail map on it. At first the trail climbs gradually, steepens then moderates again. In about 300 feet, the Fire Trail passes an unmarked trail on the left that leads to a rock outcrop with west-facing views of Woodbury and the surrounding area.

Fire Trail – Orenaug Park

The Fire Trail continues heading north, uphill on the woods road, passing another side trail with similar views as the first and then about a 1/2-mile from the start of the hike, the Fire Trail reaches a junction with the orange-blazed Tower Trail, which begins on the left.

Fire Trail – Orenaug Park

bear right to remain on Fire Trail

Bear right to remain on the red-blazed Fire Trail and in about 260 yards, you’ll pass a junction with the yellow-blazed Bethel Rock Trail which begins on the right. In another 200 feet, the Fire Trail ends at the Orenaug Park Observation Tower.

Fire Trail – Orenaug Park

Orenaug Park Observation Tower

In 2018 the Orenaug Park Observation Tower got a fresh coat of paint. Previously, the tower had a metallic look, but now is a light green color. The $26,000 project to paint and repair the structure was completed in the summer of 2018 by Jim Casale of JNC Contracting Associates of Bethel. The contractor used scaffolding to paint and repair the hardest to reach areas.

Orenaug Park Observation Tower

You may want to ascend the observation tower’s 70 steps on the open grid stairway, protected by sturdy wire mesh, to the enclosed deck for 360° views of the Pomperaug River Valley. There is no view from the base of the tower.

Orenaug Park Observation Tower

Unlike some of the other old fire towers that I have climbed, this one did not have any shake to it, but the floor of the cab does ripple underfoot.

Orenaug Park Observation Tower

view northeast from Orenaug Park Observation Tower

view southwest from Orenaug Park Observation Tower

view west from Orenaug Park Observation Tower

When you are done enjoying the views, carefully descend the steps back to flat ground and retrace your steps for about 200 feet along the red-blazed Fire Trail to the junction with the yellow-blazed Bethel Rock Trail, which you passed on the way up.

Orenaug Park Observation Tower

Turn left on the Bethel Rock Trail and follow the yellow blazes as they descend slightly and turn left, soon passing through an interesting looking area lined with rock walls. The trail passes below the the base of the tower, turns right then climbs the hillside.

Bethel Rock Trail – Orenaug Park

Soon the trail levels off somewhat and in about 350 yards, comes to a junction with the blue-blazed Loop Trail.

Bethel Rock Trail – Orenaug Park

turn left on Loop Trail

Turn left on the blue blazed trail and follow it as it descends into the valley with high rock walls on the left. At the base of the descent, the trail turns sharp right. It was in this area that I looked up to the top of the cliffs and saw a Black Bear watching me. When I pointed the bear out to my hiking partner, it ran off. It then stopped, turned around and looked at me again. When I pointed to it again, it ran off once again. As luck would have it the trail took us right by where the bear was standing watching us. We were on high alert after that, but we did not see the bear again. My estimation is that the bear was 1-2 years old and about 150 pounds.

Loop Trail – Orenaug Park

After a short, but steep climb, the trail soon comes to a junction with the yellow-blazed Bethel Rock Trail. Turn left and follow the yellow blazes as they head southwest, gradually downhill.

Loop Trail – Orenaug Park

Bethel Rock Trail – Orenaug Park

In about 500 feet, the Bethel Rock Trail reaches Bethel Rock. You may want to take a little time to explore this area.

Bethel Rock – Orenaug Park

Originally, we were going to retrace our steps, but due to the bear sighting, we decided to make a loop out of it using two residential streets. The Bethel Rock Trail continues in a southerly direction until its terminus on Park Lane, an unpaved road.

Bethel Rock Trail – Orenaug Park

Turn right on Park Lane and follow it for about 1100 feet, to its terminus at Park Road. Turn right on Park Road and follow it for about 315 yards, passing an animal farm and returning to the parking area, where the hike began.

Park Lane – Woodbury

Alpaca along Park Road.

Park Road – Woodbury

Alpaca along Park Road.

Park Road – Woodbury

Side Note:

Woodbury which means “dwelling place in the woods,” is a beautiful town that is full of history and worth checking out. There are many historic buildings, some dating back to the 1700’s. Woodbury is often referred to as Connecticut’s “Antique Capital,” with over 30 dealers offering virtually all categories, periods and styles of antiques, related accessories, gifts and bench made reproductions from every corner of the world.

A picturesque, New England setting, with a “tree lined” Main Street, it is worth taking a stroll around if you have the time. We stopped at the Soldiers’ Monument, just down the road from where we parked.

An 1871 obelisk and two cannons on Woodbury’s South Green honor the sacrifice of local residents killed in the Civil War.

Soldiers’ Monument – Woodbury

The town’s contribution to the Civil War was 264, of whom 56 did not survive the war. In grateful memory, the Soldier’s Monument was dedicated September 26, 1871.

Soldiers’ Monument – Woodbury

Review:

A great hike in a small tract of land. The observation tower is worth the trip on its own. The blue-blazed Loop Trail should not be missed as it is very scenic with its unusual rock formations. Bethel Rock is also worth checking out. The bear sighting was cool although it made us change our route. We didn’t see any other hikers during our time there. Worth a visit if you are in the area or even to make a special trip there. We drove 70 minutes (65 miles) to do this hike. Worth every mile and minute.

Pros:

Orenaug Park Observation Tower, Bethel Rock, well marked trails, interesting rock formations, Black Bear sighting, hidden gem.

Cons:

No loops unless you use public roads.

Take a hike!

Orenaug Park

Sources:

Judges Cave Loop from from Amrhyn Field – West Rock Ridge State Park

Posted on May 5, 2022

May 1, 2022 – New Haven, Connecticut

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 3.6 miles

Max elevation: 443 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 545 ft.

Route type: Circuit

Maps: West Rock Ridge State Park Trail Map – West Rock Ridge State Park Avenza Map

Trailhead parking: Parking for West Rock State Park – 445 Blake St, New Haven, CT 06515

No toilets on site – No entrance or parking fees

Plenty of parking in paved lot

Park Overview:

Rising up to 627 feet above mean sea level, West Rock Ridge is one of the most prominent features of the New Haven region. West Rock affords visitors a spectacular view. It is estimated that one can see approximately 200 square miles from various locations on the ridge with excellent views of New Haven Harbor and Long Island Sound.

West Rock Ridge

West Rock Ridge State Park is located in parts of New Haven, Hamden, and Woodbridge, Connecticut. The state park is named for the 400 to 700 ft. trap rock West Rock Ridge, which is part of the Metacomet Ridge extending from Long Island Sound to the Vermont border. The park’s 7 miles of open west-facing cliffs offer vistas encompassing Metropolitan New Haven and suburban towns to the west. The park includes Judges Cave, a colonial era historic site; Lake Wintergreen; and the nearly 7-mile long Regicides Trail, part of the Connecticut Forest and Park Association’s Blue Trail system. The park is part of a larger area of protected open space including state, municipal, and non-profit owned land.

West Rock Ridge State Park

At the South Overlook, enjoy a panoramic view of south central Connecticut including the Sleeping Giant, East Rock Park, New Haven Harbor and the shimmering expanse of Long Island Sound. From some vantage points at South Overlook, the vistas from West Rock are said to encompass 200 square miles.

South Overlook – West Rock Ridge State Park

The park is open for walk-in access from 8 am to sunset.

The drive to the summit is open for vehicles on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day weekend until the last weekend in October from 8 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

West Rock Ridge State Park is a carry-in, carry-out park with no trash facilities, so users are asked to take out any items they bring with them.

History:

In the 17th century, West Rock served as the hideout for Edward Whalley and his son-in-law, Gen. William Goffe, two of the three “Regicide Judges” whom New Haven honors by streets bearing their surnames. They had fled England, anticipating prosecution under King Charles II for signing the death warrant of his father Charles I. The rock shelter hideout used by the two is now called Judges Cave. Goffe and Whalley hid at Judges Cave in 1661 and again in 1664. The Regicides Trail is also named with this history in mind.

The Judges Cave, New Haven

Regicide is the killing of a king (or queen). The word derives from the Latin regis, meaning “king,” and the ancient French cide, meaning “killer.” Today, the word regicide can also be applied to politicians who topple a president or prime minister.

In 1962, the State of Connecticut endorsed the need for open spaces preservation. In 1975, the State legislature unanimously created West Rock Ridge State Park and established the boundaries of the larger Conservation Area.

New Haven’s city park, which had grown to more than 600 acres, was transferred to the State in 1982, and the State continued to acquire parcels within the West Rock Ridge Conservation Area over the years, for a total now of over 1700 acres.

Amrhyn Field is named for Gustave Xavier Amrhyn, New Haven’s first Superintendent of Parks. He was hired in 1900 and remained Park Superintendent until his death on December 5, 1929.

Trails Overview:

There are more than 25 miles of marked trails in and near West Rock Ridge State Park, all of which are marked with painted blazes. If two blazes are stacked to resemble an equal sign, then this symbol indicates the end of the trail. There is no special marker to indicate the start of a trail.

Westville Feeder Trail

The Green, Red, Red-White, Yellow and White blazed trails are designated as multi-use. Riding horses and mountain bikes on these trails is encouraged. All other trails are footpaths for hiking activity only.

Trails used on this hike:

Teal/White Trail (TW) is a short connector trail (0.18 mile) that connects to the Teal Trail. It begins to the right, immediately after crossing the footbridge over the West River. Look for the painted markers on trees along the edge of the field. It enters the woods by the third base dugout and a short distance later, ends at a T-intersection with the Teal Trail.

Teal/White Trail – Amrhyn Field

The Teal Trail (0.20 mile) runs mostly north-south along the eastern side of the park and connects to the Red Trail. The portion of the Teal Trail used on this hike, rises gradually through the woods.

Teal Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

The Red Trail (0.25 mile) in the section used on this hike is very steep and rocky. It climbs the ridge using stone steps in several places along with several switchbacks. This is the most physically demanding part of the hike, but it is short lived.

Red Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

Located entirely within West Rock Ridge State Park, the blue-blazed Regicides Trail extends 6.8 miles northerly from the South Overlook of West Rock to its terminus at the Quinnipiac Trail on the west slope of York Mountain. Along the way, the Regicides Trail intersects with a series of different colored trails that climb the ridge. With these numerous trail options, hikers can easily customize the length of their hike.

Regicides Trail – South Overlook

The Regicides Trail starts by a stone wall and pavilion at the South Overlook in New Haven, passes historic Judges Cave, and follows the ridgeline through Hamden, ending at the Quinnipiac Trail in Bethany. From 375 feet above sea level at the South Overlook, the traprock ridge rises to more than 600 feet where the two trails join on the west slope of York Mountain. The trail is named in honor of William Goffe and Edward Whalley, two of the Regicides of King Charles I of England. Seeking to avoid capture by agents of King Charles II, Goffe and Whalley hid at Judges Cave in 1661 and again in 1664.

Regicides Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

The Westville Feeder Trail (0.7-mile) connects the Westville section of New Haven to the Regicides Trail at the top of the ridge near Judges Cave. The Westville Feeder is a wide rocky path that steadily climbs up the side of the ridge. The trail starts at the pedestrian bridge over the West River near the ballfield off Valley and Blake streets in the Westville section of New Haven.

Westville Feeder Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

Hike Overview:

Having been to West Rock Ridge State Park the previous week, I decided to make a return trip to explore a different area. With the park roads closed off to vehicular traffic, you won’t find many people up on the ridge. Anyone that you run into at the South Overlook or Judges Cave, had to put in the effort by hoofing it up there. The lack of foot traffic near the ridge, is what makes hiking in West Rock Ridge State Park so enjoyable.

We parked in the lot behind The Well For Women: Massage Therapy and Elm City Montessori School, which share the same parking lot. That is an authorized parking area for West Rock Ridge State Park. A footbridge over the West River connects the parking lot with Amrhyn Field. Parking is also available in the adjacent Amrhyn Field lot.

We did the hike as a sort of “figure 8” loop and stayed up on the ridge once we got there. We turned around just before the Green Trail starts to descend.

Judges Cave Loop from from Amrhyn Field – West Rock Ridge State Park

The elevation profile of the hike below.

elevation profile – Judges Cave Loop

The Hike:

We parked close to the footbridge that connects to Amrhyn Field. On the railing of the footbridge is a blue-over-yellow painted blaze. That is the Westville Feeder Trail that goes left after crossing the bridge.

footbridge over the West River to Amrhyn Field

West River – New Haven

After crossing the footbridge, there are two offset blue-over-yellow blazes that indicate that the Westville Feeder Trail turns left. That will be your return route, but for now, turn right and follow the teal-over-white blazes that begin on the right.

Westville Feeder Trail – Amrhyn Field

Teal/White Trail – Amrhyn Field

Across the field is West Rock Ridge, your destination on this hike. If you look closely, you can see part of the stone wall that surrounds the South Overlook.

West Rock Ridge State Park

Follow the teal-over-white blazes as they run along the edge of the field. You can also just cut across the field and head towards the third base dugout, where this short connector trail enters the woods.

Teal/White Trail – Amrhyn Field

Follow the teal-over-white blazes behind the third base dugout where it turns right, enters the woods, and begins to climb. A short distance later, the teal-over-white blazed Connector Trail ends at a T-intersection with the Teal Trail that comes in from the left. Once on the Teal Trail, you are officially in West Rock Ridge State Park.

Teal/White Trail – Amrhyn Field

junction of Teal/White and Teal Trails

Turn right and follow the Teal Trail as it heads northeast along private property.

Teal Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

A short unmarked trail to the left leads to this kiosk near the rock climbing area. The Ragged Mountain Foundation installed it in September 2021.

Rock Climber’s Area – West Rock Ridge State Park

Follow the Teal Trail for about 800 feet until you see a trail that begins on the left with a red arrow painted on a tree.

Teal Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

Turn left on this trail and follow it a short distance, where it connects to the Red Trail, that comes in from the right. When you get to the Red Trail, bear left as it climbs the ridge.

turn left on unmarked trail

unmarked trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

Red Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

The Red Trail soon climbs rather steeply, at times coming close to the edge of the cliffs. There are several short trails that lead to the edge, offering some views of New Haven below. If you decide to get close to the edge, watch your footing and try not to dislodge or kick any stones off the ridge. There may be rock climbers just below on the cliff face.

Red Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

The Red Trail continues its steep ascent, soon climbing over uneven and eroded stone steps. As the trail climbs, a rock outcrop on the right, provides east-facing views of Sleeping Giant and East Rock.

Red Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

Soon the Red Trail climbs more stone steps and a short distance later, ends at the South Overlook.

Red Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

terminus of Red Trail

The southernmost peak of West Rock Ridge State Park is known as the South Overlook. It includes a large circular parking area and a stone pavilion.

South Overlook – West Rock Ridge State Park

The South Overlook offers superb views to the west, south and east, including Sleeping Giant State Park with its distinctive profile, East Rock Park with its striking red cliffs topped by the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, the city of New Haven, including the harbor, Long Island Sound, and Long Island.

South Overlook – West Rock Ridge State Park

The outer area alongside the wall of the South Overlook.

South Overlook – West Rock Ridge State Park

When the interior roads of the park are open, this parking lot will be filled on a nice day.

South Overlook – West Rock Ridge State Park

When you are done taking in the views, look for a blue blaze at the break in the wall and head towards the back of the stone pavilion. The blue-blazed Regicides Trail begins here.

South Overlook – West Rock Ridge State Park

The Regicides Trail traces roughly, the route Edward Whalley and his son-in-law William Goffe traveled while attempting to evade arrest by order of King Charles II.

Regicides Trail – South Overlook

The Regicides Trail runs along the western edge of the traprock ridge, providing far reaching views from rock outcrops.

Regicides Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

The beginning section of the Regicides Trail is mostly level with a railing or chain link fence in some sections, protecting hikers from the steep drop-off along the ridge. On the east side of the trail, a stone wall for Regicide Drive, the paved road that connects the main entrance to the South Overlook and Judges Cave, is visible at times.

Regicides Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

The Regicides Trail provides frequent glimpses of westerly views through the trees.

Regicides Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

The Regicides Trail travels through an opening in a wall and connects with Regicides Drive, a paved park road. We left the trail just shortly before and walked along the paved road, passing the opening in the wall where the trail joins the road.

Regicides Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

Regicides Drive – West Rock Ridge State Park

A short distance later, The Regicides Trail which is now co-aligned the paved Regicides Drive, comes to a circle where Judges Cave is located. There is a picnic table in the center of the circle, which makes a good spot to take a break.

Regicides Drive – West Rock Ridge State Park

Judges Cave, more of a massive fractured boulder than an actual cave, stands at the circle on Regicides Drive. A cluster of fragmented rocks form a cave-like hideout

Judges Cave – West Rock Ridge State Park

In the 17th century, West Rock served as the hideout for Edward Whalley and his son-in-law, Gen. William Goffe, two of the three “Regicide Judges” seeking to avoid capture by agents of King Charles II. With active help from local Puritans, they hid there
in May 1661, and briefly again in October 1664 before seeking refuge in Hadley, Massachusetts.

Judges Cave – West Rock Ridge State Park

Both the blue-blazed Regicides Trail and the Green Trail, begin just north of the Judges Cave, just feet apart from each other. The Regicides Trail stays within sight distance of the western edge of the ridge, while the Green Trail is closer to the center line of the ridge. You can proceed ahead on either of the two trails. We chose the Green Trail, then returned on the Blue.

Regicides Trail and Green Trail near Judges Cave

The Green Trail heads north on a footpath, which is soon joined briefly by the Regicides Trail which then departs to the left. We followed the Green Trail for about 0.4 mile, just before it began to descend. We then bushwacked a very short distance to the west and jumped on the Regicides Trail (Blue Trail) and began heading south.

Green Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

Regicides Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

The Regicides Trail travels through a rocky area and soon approaches the edge of the cliff. There are views through the trees of New Haven and beyond. A short distance later, the Regicides Trail joins the green Trail again briefly then reaches Regicides Drive.

Regicides Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

Follow the blue blazes along Regicides Drive until you see the break in the stone wall. The blue blazes leave the road and begin travelling on a footpath, paralleling the park road.

Regicides Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

Soon the Regicides Trail begins to descend on a wide rocky path. In just under 600 yards, the blue-blazed Regicides Trail, departs to the left as the blue-over-yellow-blazed Westville Feeder Trail begins on the right.

Regicides Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

bear right on Westville Feeder Trail

Bear right and follow the Westville Feeder Trail downhill on a wide rocky footpath.

Westville Feeder Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

As the trail nears the level of the West River, an unmarked trail comes in from the right. A short distance later, the Teal Trail begins on the left. Continue to follow the blue-over-yellow-blazed Westville Feeder Trail.

Westville Feeder Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

At the base of the descent, follow the Westville Feeder Trail along the edge of the ballfield, then turn right, crossing the footbridge, and return to the parking area, where the hike began.

Westville Feeder Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

Review:

A great hike in a beautiful park. The trails are well marked and litter free. The best part is that we only saw several people up on the ridge in that area. It was like we had the park to ourselves. I recommend visiting when the main gate is closed and there is walk-in access only. Worth a visit and I plan on going back to explore other areas of the park.

Pros:

Well maintained trails, free of litter (let’s keep it that way), not much foot traffic, scenic landscape.

Cons:

Could hear road noise on the Regicides Trail. A lot of sirens wailing from emergency vehicles on a Sunday.

Take a hike!

Judges Cave Loop from from Amrhyn Field – West Rock Ridge State Park

Sources:

Konold’s Pond Overlook from Lake Wintergreen – West Rock Ridge State Park

Posted on April 27, 2022

April 24, 2022 – Hamden, Connecticut

Difficulty: Easy – Moderate

Length: Approximately 3.8 miles

Max elevation: 441 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 408 ft.

Route type: Circuit

Maps: West Rock Ridge State Park Trail Map – West Rock Ridge State Park Avenza Map

Trailhead parking: Lake Wintergreen Parking Area

Composting toilets on site – No entrance or parking fees

Approximately 30 parking spaces at the Lake Wintergreen trailhead.

Park Overview:

Rising up to 627 feet above mean sea level, West Rock Ridge is one of the most prominent features of the New Haven region. West Rock affords visitors a spectacular view; it is estimated that one can see approximately 200 square miles from various locations on the ridge with excellent views of New Haven Harbor and Long Island Sound.

West Rock Ridge

West Rock Ridge State Park is located in parts of New Haven, Hamden, and Woodbridge, Connecticut. The state park is named for the 400 to 700 ft. trap rock West Rock Ridge, which is part of the Metacomet Ridge extending from Long Island Sound to the Vermont border. The park’s 7 miles of open west-facing cliffs offer vistas encompassing Metropolitan New Haven and suburban towns to the west. The park includes Judges Cave, a colonial era historic site; Lake Wintergreen; and the 7-mile long Regicides Trail, part of the Connecticut Forest and Park Association’s Blue Trail system. The park is part of a larger area of protected open space including state, municipal, and non-profit owned land.

Lake Wintergreen – West Rock Ridge State Park

The park is open for walk-in access from 8 am to sunset.

The drive to the summit is open for vehicles on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day weekend until the last weekend in October from 8 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

There is a composting toilet by the Lake Wintergreen parking lot, which is the only restroom facility available in the park.

History:

The park began as a city park in 1826, when Elijah Thompson donated 50 acres to the City of New Haven. In 1927, Governor Simeon Baldwin donated over $100,000 to the New Haven Park Commission, leading to acquisition of a large portion of the ridge and construction of Baldwin Drive in the 1930’s. Baldwin Drive (once known as Baldwin Parkway) was built along the ridge by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in the 1930’s.

New Haven’s city park, which had grown to more than 600 acres, was transferred to the State in 1982, and the State has continued to acquire parcels within the West Rock Ridge Conservation Area over the years, for a total now of over 1700 acres.

Between 1863 and 1978 Lake Wintergreen provided water for the City of New Haven. The lake was created when an earthen dam was built by Fair Haven Water Co. to flood the bedrock basin. After they had used the water supply for 13 years, the Fair Haven Water Co. was bought out by the New Haven Water Company, which soon bought additional land in the watershed. In 1978 the lake was taken out of the water supply system because strict new Federal standards would have required construction of a filtration plant.

Red Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

Trails Overview:

Red/White Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

Trails used on this hike:

The Red Trail (6.75 miles) runs roughly parallel to the Regicides Trail (Blue Trail) with several connecting trails cutting between the two. This allows hikers to make a variety of loops within the park. The trail has some rolling ups and downs in the middle and a steep downhill (or uphill) at the southern end and a similar climb or descent on the north end where the trail climbs up to meet the Regicides Trail (Blue Trail) at the ridgeline.

The blue-blazed Regicides Trail extends 6.8 miles northerly from the South Overlook of West Rock to its terminus at the Quinnipiac Trail on the west slope of York Mountain. Along the way, the Regicides Trail intersects with a series of different colored trails that climb the ridge. With these numerous trail options, hikers can easily customize the length of their hike. The Regicides Trail also crosses Baldwin Drive six times.

The Regicides Trail is considered one of Connecticut’s most spectacular cliff walks. Along the western side of the ridge, hikers are rewarded with extended views of reservoirs and forests in Woodbridge and Bethany. On the eastern side, the trail has a dramatic perspective down the length of West Rock Ridge, including Farm Brook Reservoir and the forested slopes of the state park.

The Red-White Trail is a short connector trail along the eastern shore of Lake Wintergreen, near the southern end of the lake by the Lake Wintergreen spillway. It is rocky and has a lot of exposed roots.

The Orange Trail is 0.3 mile long and starts at the southern end of Lake Wintergreen, near the intersection of the Red and White Trails, and ends at the junction of the Regicides Trail and Baldwin Drive. The trail is a steady climb from the lake up to the ridge, gaining about 200 feet of elevation. It is mostly rocky with a few wet areas.

A combination of park roads and an unmarked trails were also used.

Hike Overview:

This hike was a last minute change of plans which meant not that much research was done on the area. I did not know that the park roads were closed to motor vehicles until Memorial Day weekend. That meant that we had to park at the Lake Wintergreen parking lot. Although there are numerous approved parking areas near connecting trails just outside the park, I was unaware of some of their locations. Some of the parking locations along Wintergreen Avenue seemed a little desolate and quite frankly gave the impression of not being a safe spot to leave a vehicle unattended.

The hike that I had mapped out got scrapped and I made one up on the fly. Several points of interest from the original plan were not included, but it still turned out to be a good hike.

Using a combination of blazed and unmarked trails, along with park roads, we made our way along the lake and up to the ridge to enjoy some views. We ran into a few people, but mostly near the lake. Lake Wintergreen, the South Overlook, and Judges Cave, are the three most heavily-used areas at West Rock.

The hike begins at the northern end of Lake Wintergreen, heads south then climbs the Orange Trail up to the ridge for some west-facing views. Then south on the Regicides Trail past a ventilator shaft over the Heroes Tunnel and returns on the Red Trail.

Konolds Pond Overlook from Lake Wintergreen

This hike is rated easy-moderate with only one steep ascent on the Orange Trail. The rest of the hike is relatively easy.

elevation profile – Konolds Pond Overlook from Lake Wintergreen

The Hike

We walked towards the sign and turned left on the wide gravel road. That is the Red Trail. Almost immediately we turned right on an unmarked footpath and headed towards Lake Wintergreen. We walked on a wide footpath, which follows the contour of the scenic lake. In about 1/2-mile, the unmarked trail meets up with the Red Trail, where we turned right.

Lake Wintergreen – West Rock Ridge State Park

Red Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

Lake Wintergreen – West Rock Ridge State Park

unmarked trail along Lake Wintergreen

Lake Wintergreen – West Rock Ridge State Park

unmarked trail along Lake Wintergreen

Red Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

In a short distance, the Red Trail veers left at a junction with the Red/White Trail which runs across the top of the earthen dam. From this area you can get some of the finer views of Lake Wintergreen. The Red Trail will be your return route, for now continue straight on the Red/White Trail.

Red Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

Lake Wintergreen is a 44-acre artificially impounded body of water. It has a shoreline of approximately 1.6 miles and sits at an elevation of about 239 feet above sea level.

Lake Wintergreen – West Rock Ridge State Park

The Red/White Trail continues south on the earthen dam and soon crosses a footbridge over the Lake Wintergreen Dam Spillway.

Red/White Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

After crossing the footbridge, the Red/White Trail travels along a a natural rock ridge with steep drop-offs on each side. This section of the trail is covered with roots and is quite rocky. Exercise caution in this area, especially when the trail comes close to the edge. Please note: this section can be bypassed by veering left on the Red Trail by the earthen dam.

Red/White Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

View of Lake Wintergreen from the southern end of the Red/White Trail.

Lake Wintergreen – West Rock Ridge State Park

In about 0.4 mile, the Red/White Trail ends at a junction with the Red Trail which comes in from the left. Turn right briefly joining the Red Trail. When the Red Trail turns left, continue ahead on the White Trail which begins at the southern end of the lake.

terminus of Red/White Trail

White Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

In about 200 feet, turn left on the Orange Trail. The Orange Trail climbs steeply on several switchbacks, gaining about 200 feet of elevation in less than 0.3 mile.

Orange Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

At the top of the rise, the Orange Trail is joined by the blue-blazed Regicides Trail, which comes in from the left. Both trails cross Baldwin Drive.

Orange Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

The Orange Trail ends where the Regicides Trail turns sharply right and continues north. Walk a few feet past the tree to Konold’s Pond Overlook, a west-facing view of the West River Valley and Konold’s Pond.

terminus of Orange Trail

The ridge was quarried here, so the cliffs are steep and uneven with about a 300-foot drop. Be mindful of your footing at the overlook, staying a respectful distance from the edge and enjoy the views.

Konolds Pond Overlook – West Rock Ridge State Park

Looking southwest.

Konolds Pond Overlook – West Rock Ridge State Park

In 1911, the Pond Lily Company purchased twenty-six acres of land from William J. Konold. At the southern border of this parcel, they built an earthen berm and a cement spillway, creating Konold’s Pond. This project was done as a backup water source for their dyeing operation.

Konolds Pond Overlook – West Rock Ridge State Park

Looking northwest.

Konolds Pond Overlook – West Rock Ridge State Park

When you are ready to continue, retrace your steps to Baldwin Drive and turn right. Baldwin Drive is a paved park road currently closed to motor vehicles, except for maintenance. It was named for New Haven native Simeon E. Baldwin, governor of Connecticut from 1911 to 1915.

Baldwin Drive – West Rock Ridge State Park

There is an unmarked trail between Baldwin Drive and the edge of the cliffs that provides more views from various rock outcrops.

rock outcrop near Baldwin Drive

unmarked trail along Baldwin Drive

rock outcrop near Baldwin Drive

Baldwin Drive continues south, not far from the edge of the cliffs. As Baldwin Drive makes a sharp left, continue ahead on a gravel road that connects Baldwin Drive to a tall antenna on the ridge. Soon you’ll pass an old airway beacon.

Baldwin Drive – West Rock Ridge State Park

Airway beacons in the US were constructed by the Post Office and the Department of Commerce between 1923 and 1933. Approximately 1,500 airway beacons were constructed to guide pilots from city to city, covering 18,000 miles. Today, most of the beacons have been removed.

Airway Beacon – West Rock Ridge State Park

A short distance later after reaching a fenced off building, we turned right into the woods and jumped back on the blue-blazed Regicides Trail which descends steeply.

Regicides Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

As the trail descends, the ventilation shaft for the Heroes Tunnel (formerly West Rock Tunnel) is visible through the trees on the left.

Regicides Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

The large stone building covers a concrete ventilation shaft marking the 1,200-ft. tunnel’s midpoint. There is a control room at the base of the shaft. The fans in the shaft would draw exhaust fumes from the tunnels below and blow it up into the shaft and out of one of the four ducts. The sounds of cars can be heard whispering below. If you have ever driven on the Wilbur Cross Parkway (Connecticut Route 15) between Exits 59 and 60, then you have literally driven under the park.

ventilator shaft – West Rock Ridge State Park

Shut the door on the way out.

ventilator shaft – West Rock Ridge State Park

A short footpath leads downhill from the ventilator shaft to Baldwin Drive. Turn left and follow Baldwin Drive down to the hairpin turn and proceed past the guard rail at the turn, joining the Red Trail that comes in from the right.

ventilator shaft – West Rock Ridge State Park

Baldwin Drive – West Rock Ridge State Park

Follow the red blazes north as the trail climbs slightly, levels off then descends along a narrow section of trail under tall evergreen trees. The trail soon widens to a woods road as it nears Lake Wintergreen.

Red Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

At the junction where the White Trail turns left and the Red/White Trail begins straight ahead, turn right to stay on the Red Trail as it descends around a curve. At the base of the descent, the trail passes the stone ruins of an old pump house dating from when Lake Wintergreen was water company property.

Red Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

After crossing the Lake Wintergreen Dam Spillway, the trail climbs alongside the earthen dam and soon levels off at the junction with the Red/White Trail. The Red Trail is now a flat, wide woods road with a solid gravel surface. Follow the Red Trail a short distance north, back to the Lake Wintergreen parking area, where the hike began.

Red Trail – West Rock Ridge State Park

Lake Wintergreen parking area

Review:

A very nice hike with lots to see. The views of the lake are quite nice as well as from Konold’s Pond Overlook. The trails are well marked and easy to follow. Download the Avenza Maps app along with a park map and you won’t go astray. If you visit the park when the park roads are closed, the farther away you get from Lake Wintergreen, the less people you will run into. All in all a nice place to spend some time outdoors. I look forward to a return visit.

Pros:

Beautifully maintained park and trails, not much foot traffic.

Cons:

Some road noise can be heard near and around the tunnel.

Take a hike!

Konolds Pond Overlook from Lake Wintergreen – West Rock Ridge State Park

Sources:

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

Posted on April 23, 2022

April 10, 2022 – North Haven, Connecticut

Difficulty: Easy

Length: Approximately 3.1 miles

Max elevation: 30 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 70 ft.

Route type: Out and Back

Map: Tidal Marsh Trail Map

Trailhead parking: 200 Universal Drive, North Haven, CT 06473 (Behind Target)

No bathrooms on site – No entrance or parking fees

Plenty of parking at the trailhead.

Please Note: This hike is no longer possible due to the property being fenced off.

North Haven Trail Association: We regret to inform you that, until further notice, the Tidal Marsh Trail, behind Target on Universal Drive, is no longer open to the public. The property’s owners have advised us that, due to contaminated wetlands on the property, they no longer can allow the public to use the Tidal Marsh Trail until such time as they have cleaned up the property. We will share more information as we receive it.

Overview:

Tucked behind the Target Department Store on Universal Drive in North Haven, the Tidal Marsh Trail offers visitors a rewarding experience. A leisurely stroll on a trail along the Quinnipiac River. Starting on a small bluff above the river, with stunning views of Sleeping Giant, lower Hamden, and the river’s marshes. The trail meanders south through stands of different species of trees between the river and abandoned train tracks. The trail is maintained by the North Haven Trail Association.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

The Tidal Marsh Trail offers wonderful opportunities to bird watch. You may spot Bald Eagles, Hawks, Ospreys, ducks, geese, and other migratory birds in or near the water, or riding the thermals high in the sky.

Ospreys – Tidal Marsh Trail

If you follow the sporadic blazes Just beyond, into the abandoned Cedar Hill Rail Yard, You will come across a 14-ft. tall Polar Bear sculpture made from wood, sheet metal and other items reclaimed from the dilapidated building that it rests in. The sculpture was created by Connecticut artist Michael DeAngelo.

Polar Bear sculpture – Cedar Hill Rail Yard

History:

The North Haven Trail Association began developing the Tidal Marsh Trail in 2012 with the help of private and public funds to secure easements along the Quinnipiac River to provide North Haven residents access to the River for recreational purposes and to ensure protection of the River and its surrounding watershed.

The Quinnipiac River is a 45.5-mile long river located entirely in the state of Connecticut. The river rises in West Central Connecticut from Dead Wood Swamp near the city of New Britain. It flows roughly southward to Plainville, Southington, and Cheshire, west of the city of Meriden, through Wallingford and Yalesville, North Haven, and flows into New Haven Harbor, an inlet of Long Island Sound, east of downtown New Haven. The name “Quinnipiac” comes from an Algonquian phrase meaning “long water land.”

According to the 1928 issue of Railway Age magazine, there were once 14 yards at Cedar Hill with a capacity of 15,000 rail cars. The yard covered 880 acres and extended more than seven miles from New Haven into North Haven. It was 1.5 miles wide at its widest point.

The Cedar Hill Rail Yard was built by the New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad (known simply as The New Haven) and first opened for service in December 1894, with a capacity of approximately 400 railroad cars in and around New Haven’s Cedar Hill neighborhood, which gave the yard its name. At its peak during World War II, Cedar Hill Yard handled more than 5,000 railroad cars per day. Following the end of the war, the yard’s importance began to decline as freight traffic across New England shifted to road transport, and heavy industry left the region. Much of the yard began to fall into decay following the New Haven Railroad’s bankruptcy in 1961.

In 1969, the bankrupt New Haven Railroad was merged into newly-formed Penn Central Transportation Company, which inherited the yard. Just one year after acquiring Cedar Hill Yard with the rest of the New Haven, Penn Central declared bankruptcy. The company was merged into Conrail in 1976, along with many other bankrupt or troubled railroads in the Northeast, making Conrail the yard’s new owner. Conrail began efforts to bring portions of Cedar Hill into a state of good repair, spending over $3 million (equivalent to $14,300,000 in 2021) on track resurfacing and tie replacement in 1976 alone between Cedar Hill and Hartford Yard. In 1978, two years into Conrail’s tenure, Cedar Hill was processing roughly 300 cars a day, significantly less than it had in the New Haven days. At this point the yard employed 200 workers, down from its peak of 1,000.

In 1999, Conrail’s lines in New England were purchased by CSX Transportation. As of 2021, CSX remains the owner and main operator at Cedar Hill Yard. Presently much of the yard now lies abandoned and is an attraction for urban explorers, despite the dangers of the old buildings and facilities which contain lead paint and asbestos.

Trail Overview:

Although the trail map (2016) shows the trail as blazed orange, it is marked with white blazes. The map indicates that the trail is about a 1/2 mile long (1 mile round trip), but it is approximately 1.5 miles to the Polar Bear sculpture. The intermittent white blazes are an indication that the trail was extended since the map was published.

Please note: I contacted the North Haven Trail Association and the reply that I received was “The trail is about 1 mile long. There is no “Polar Bear” sculpture on this trail.” Apparently the “Polar Bear” sculpture is on the abandoned Cedar Hill Rail Yard property and not part of the Tidal Marsh Trail. Since the entire route is blazed white, for the purpose of this guide, the entire trail will be referred to as the “Tidal Marsh Trail.”

There are a lot of leaning/fallen trees along the trail that you will have to step over or duck under.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

The well trodden trail is relatively easy to follow although most of the blazes are faded or the trees that they are painted on, have fallen.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

Hike Overview:

There is plenty of parking at the trailhead which is behind Target.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

Although this is an easy hike, from what I have read on Facebook, many people never find the Polar Bear sculpture, which is one of the highlights of the hike. When I was reading the comments on someone’s post, what stuck with me was “If you think you went too far for the bear… keep going farther. You’ll eventually come across the old rail building with the bear inside.” That comment was helpful in not turning back too soon.

The map below shows the route that we took. The trail is mostly flat with minimal elevation gain.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

This hike, from what I read, is better done during leaf off season. According to those that have visited, the trail gets overgrown, making the trail harder to follow. There are also a lot of bugs and ticks during the warmer months. Also, since it is located in an industrial area, it is probably better not to hike alone. We did not encounter any of these issues on our visit.

The Hike:

The hike begins in the parking lot behind the Target Department Store. The trailhead is clearly marked with a large sign and there are informational signs detailing the history of the Quinnipiac River. There is a bench for relaxing right at the trailhead.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

Proceed ahead on the white-blazed trail which heads in a southwesterly direction along a bluff above the Quinnipiac River. As you walk along the trail, look for an Osprey stand on the edge of the marsh. We saw an Osprey fly overhead and land, joining the one that was already there.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

Ospreys – Tidal Marsh Trail

You will probably have to do some ducking along the way as there are numerous trees laying across the trail. In August 2020, the area was hit by a tornado that barreled through Hamden, North Haven, and Bethany.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

Next to the trail are lines of rusted tracks with large trees growing between the rails.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

A rusty ladder on a steel pole stretch high into the canopy.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

There are wide gaps in the trees that afford open westerly views across the river into Hamden.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

To the north, Sleeping Giant is visible in the distance.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

I believe that this marks the end of the Tidal Marsh Trail, which is about a 1/2 mile from the start. To continue on to the Cedar Hill Rail Yard and the Polar Bear sculpture, follow the trail to the left of the concrete culvert. Do not walk through the tunnel.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

Once above the culvert, turn right and follow the train tracks. You may see some fallen Birch trees laying across the tracks. Proceed ahead and you will pick up the trail a short distance later.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

There are no visible blazes in this area, but continue southwest along the well beaten path. When the trail splits, taking the left fork will take you directly to the Polar Bear sculpture. We did not know that at the time so we stayed right which led us to a paved area of the rail yard that was interesting to check out.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

An old abandoned switch tower, that once guided trains into the Cedar Hill Rail Yard.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

The old light towers now serve as nests for raptors.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

A roofless switch tower.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

Classification Yard.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

Heavy machinery for rail maintenance.

Cedar Hill Rail Yard

The 110-foot tall Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument high above New Haven, is visible for miles on a clear day. The monument, at the summit of East Rock Park, was dedicated in 1887 to honor soldiers and sailors who fought in the American Revolution, the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War and the Civil War.

Soldiers and Sailors Monument – East Rock Park

We took this unmarked path a short distance east until we hooked back up with the White Trail, where we turned right.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

The trail is obvious although it is sparsely blazed, but as you proceed southwest, white blazes start to appear.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

When you come to a metal, roofless building that is where the Polar Bear sculpture resides. This building is approximately 1.5 miles from the start of the hike.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

If you enter from the south, you will see the back of the Polar Bear first. Continue past the white sheet metal until you are face to face with the work of art that is hidden in the ruins of an old rail yard.

Polar Bear sculpture – Cedar Hill Rail Yard

The bear is the work of New Haven-based artist M.J. DeAngelo. “This guy is made from reclaimed wood and metal falling off of the decaying building he sits in, 14 feet tall, smashed, nailed together, sprayed with a fire extinguisher, and spray painted deep in the woods.”

Polar Bear sculpture – Cedar Hill Rail Yard

Cedar Hill Rail Yard

Polar Bear sculpture – Cedar Hill Rail Yard

A very cool Instagram video from May 2020 of the sculpture being created.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Michael DeAngelo (@refractualism)

Cedar Hill Rail Yard

This was our turnaround point and we began retracing our steps. At times we wandered around a bit exploring the numerous railyard remnants scattered throughout the woods.

Cedar Hill Rail Yard

We turned left at the concrete culvert, descended back to the “official” section of the Tidal Marsh Trail and continued northeast along the Quinnipiac River, back to the parking area, where the hike began.

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

Review:

A really good walk through the woods with lots to see. The Polar Bear sculpture is a worthy destination on its own. We got there early enough that we didn’t encounter anyone on the way in. As we were making our way back (about 1/2 mile from the trailhead), we did pass several small groups going in the opposite direction. All in all a nice hike with many points of interest to see and photograph.

Pros:

Scenic area, Polar Bear sculpture, First 1/2 mile of the trail is well marked, a lot of bird activity, plenty of parking.

Cons:

A lot of leaning trees which means a lot of ducking.

Take a hike!

Tidal Marsh Trail – North Haven

Sources:

Tarrywile Park

Posted on April 3, 2022

April 2, 2022 – Danbury, Connecticut

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 4 miles

Max elevation: 710 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 587 ft.

Route type: Figure-8 Loop

Maps: Tarrywile Park Trail Map

Trailhead parking: 70 Southern Blvd, Danbury, CT 06810

Portable toilets on site – No entrance or parking fees

Parking in paved lot

Park Overview:

Tarrywile Park is the largest municipally owned town Park in the State of Connecticut. The park consists of 722 acres of woodlands, fields, dense forests and steep hillsides punctuated by dramatic outcrops of granite, and glistening streams and ponds.

Within the boundaries of Tarrywile Park stand both the Tarrywile Mansion and Hearthstone Castle. These structures are listed on the National Register for Historic Preservation.

The park has a variety of trails, and is open for hiking, picnicking, and other outdoor activities. The mansion can be toured by appointment, and is rentable for private functions.

History:

Located approximately one mile from downtown Danbury, Tarrywile Park was once an active dairy farm and fruit orchard. The City purchased the parcel from the Charles D. Parks Estate in 1985. The family had offered the land to the City and was turned down several times. When the family looked to sell the acreage for a condo development, neighbors took action and through a grass roots effort forced the purchase question to a referendum. The citizens of Danbury voted to approve the purchase of 535 acres of meadows, forests, mountains, lakes and ponds as well as 19 buildings and all at a cost of 4.7 million dollars.

The voters of Danbury, in November 1999, continued to support the Park and the conservation of open-space lands with the approval of the purchase of 100 acres of land adjacent to Tarrywile Lake. In August 2000 an additional 18 acres located near the beacon was purchased, bringing the total to 653 acres. Additional acres were added to the Park over the nest several years bringing the total acerage to 722 acres.

Hearthstone Castle was a three-story, sixteen room stone castle with associated outbuildings built between 1895 and 1899. It is located in a wooded setting at the crest of a hill to the east of Brushy Hill Road.

Trails Overview:

There are twenty-one miles of marked hiking trails along with numerous other unmarked footpaths that are not on the trail map. The trail map, produced in 2010, doesn’t accurately represent the current layout of the marked trails. For instance, the Red Trail near Back Pond is shown as a spur trail that ends at a lookout. It actually descends steeply from the lookout and and runs along the eastern shore of Back Pond. A stream crossing connects the Red Trail to the Blue Trail at the southern end of Back Pond.

That is one example, but to be honest following the trail map is quite confusing and at times a little frustrating. We felt like we were wandering around trying to figure out what trail went where more than just enjoying the hike. For the average day hiker with little or no experience, it would be helpful to have an up to date trail map.

Hike Overview:

Having visited the park several times just to visit Hearthstone Castle, we never ventured much farther than the area around it. We decided to explore the trails on this visit. The areas closest to the mansion are well maintained more suited for the casual walker/hiker. The southwestern section of the park is more remote and rugged, with steep slopes that require more effort and sturdy footwear.

Tarrywile Park

elevation profile – Tarrywile Park

I don’t want to discourage anyone from visiting this park. Hearthstone Castle is worth checking out and the more maintained sections of the park are quite scenic as well.

The Hike:

Rather than try to describe the route that we took and risk getting you lost. I will point out the highlights and lowlights of the sections of trails that we hiked.

Hearthstone Castle

Please Note: Hearthstone Castle is currently lying in ruins and may be unstable. Visitors are not allowed inside the fenced-in area for their own safety. Trespassing is not allowed.

From the main parking lot, walk out to the road and turn right. Follow the road down to Brushy Hill Road. Carefully cross the road and proceed up the driveway past the gate. Walk up the hill about 245 yards to the site of Hearthstone Castle.

Tarrywile Park to Hearthstone Castle

entrance at Brushy Hill Road

entrance to castle at Brushy Hill Road

First known as “Sanford Castle,” Hearthstone was designed and constructed as a summer estate between 1895 and 1899 by architect Ernest G.W. Dietrich for Elias Starr Sanford, and his wife Emma.

Hearthstone Castle

In 1895, at the height of his success, Sanford purchased eighteen acres of woodland at “Mountain End,” a rocky promontory that overlooks the southern part of Danbury. Two acres were cleared but the property was left ungraded except in the immediate vicinity of the building. Construction of the castle commenced in the fall of 1895 and was completed in June 1899.

Hearthstone Castle

The castle was intended to be a honeymoon “cottage” for Sanford’s wife. Sanford and his family owned the castle for only five years before selling it to Victor Buck, a retired New York industrialist. Mrs. Sanford is reported to have disliked the castle.

Hearthstone Castle

When the Buck family moved in, they renamed the castle “Buck’s Castle.” The Bucks used it as a summer residence until 1918.

Hearthstone Castle

In 1910, Charles Darling Parks bought the neighboring Tarrywile Mansion from Dr. William C. Wiles. Later, in 1918, C.D. Parks then bought “Buck’s Castle” for his oldest daughter, Irene Parks, as a wedding gift. During this time the castle was renamed “Hearthstone Castle.” The name was possibly changed due to the eight fireplaces, which were all made out of stone, as was the rest of the castle.

Hearthstone Castle

All of the rock that was used to build the castle was quarried on-site and transported the short distance across the property on a small railroad which was built solely for this purpose. All of the woodwork throughout the building of the castle was brought in from Italy.

Hearthstone Castle

Hearthstone Castle was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.

Hearthstone Castle

Water Tower & Pump-House

Just before reaching the castle, there is a kiosk on the right. Follow the footpath beside the kiosk up the hill to the site of an old water tower and a pumphouse nearby. You may notice orange blazes on the trees. This little section of trail is not on the trail map, but it connects to the Orange Trail that is shown on the map.

kiosk near Hearthstone Castle

Orange Trail – Tarrywile Park

Water Tower – Hearthstone Castle

Water Tower & Pump-House – Hearthstone Castle

Black Vulture on the Water Tower

Parks Pond

Parks Pond offers a place for quiet reflection with benches and picnic tables scattered around for those who just want to enjoy nature. It is home to multiple species of fish as well as Snapping Turtles and the occasional Swan or Blue Heron. Fishing is allowed during fishing season with a fishing permit.

Parks Pond – Tarrywile Park

The White Trail (also the route of the Ives Trail), is a lovely stretch of trail that runs along the eastern shore of the pond. I didn’t hike the opposite side of the pond, but it would make for a nice scenic loop.

Parks Pond – Tarrywile Park

White Trail – Parks Pond

Back Pond

The area around Back Pond is more remote and wild. The Blue Trail leads from Parks Pond to Back Pond, descending steeply down the eroded hillside to the northern end of the pond. The section of Red Trail (not on the trail map) which runs along the eastern banks of Back Pond, at times feels more like a bushwack rather than an actual trail. It is extremely rocky and looks like it doesn’t get much foot traffic. There is a stream crossing at the southern end of Back Pond between the Blue and Red Trails which can be challenging in times of high water and the area near the stream is a little swampy.

Blue Trail to Back Pond

Back Pond – Tarrywile Park

Red Trail – Back Pond – Tarrywile Park

Miscellaneous Trails:

Blue Trail ~ At the southern end of Parks Pond, the Blue Trail climbs the hillside on a woods road. At times it is coaligned with the Ives Trail.

Blue Trail – Tarrywile Park

Green Trail ~ This is a short connector trail that allows hikers to bypass the steeper section of the Blue Trail that connects with the Yellow Trail at the southwest end of the park.

Green Trail – Tarrywile Park

In Conclusion:

While doing this write-up, I started thinking about visiting the park again. Since we never made it to any of the viewpoints, that would be my objective. I do not want to discourage anyone from visiting this lovely park, but enlighten them to what awaits them if they venture to certain areas of the park. If you want solitude, then the farther away you get from the mansion, the more alone you will be. We passed several people in the area of Back Pond, but were alone for most of the time. The park merits a visit just for the castle ruins alone, but explore other parts of the park. You can make it a lovely stroll or an adventure, it’s up to you.

Take a hike!

Tarrywile Park

Sources:

Eastern Pinnacles & Cat Rocks from Route 17A

Posted on March 21, 2022

March 20, 2022 – Warwick, NY

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 4 miles

Max elevation: 1,278 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 584 ft.

Route type: Out and Back

Map: Sterling Forest Trails Map – Avenza – Sterling Forest State Park (FREE)

Trailhead parking: 385 NY-17A, Warwick, NY 10990

No bathrooms on site – No entrance or parking fees

Ample Parking in two parking lots on North side of 17A and two parking lots across the road

Overview:

This moderate out-and-back hike travels along the Appalachian Trail, the most famous marked footpath in the world. It climbs to two fascinating puddingstone rock outcrops, with panoramic views north and east over the hills of Sterling Forest.

Eastern Pinnacles – Appalachian Trail

History:

The Appalachian Trail is a 2,180+ mile long public footpath that traverses the scenic, wooded, pastoral and wild lands of the Appalachian Mountains, from Georgia to Maine. When Congress passed the National Trails System Act in 1968, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail was federally established as a unit of the National Park System that was to be “administered primarily as a footpath.”

Approximately 40 miles of that famous foot trail are in Orange County, NY and include some of the most beautiful, wild and challenging hiking in all of the Northeast. In fact, the Appalachian Trail, the most famous foot trail in the Western Hemisphere, was conceived, planned and born right in Orange County.

It began back in 1921, when forester, planner and conservationist Benton MacKaye, living in Arden Valley at the time, began promoting an idea for a trail that would wind along the mountaintops of the Appalachians. Shortly thereafter, the newly formed Palisades Interstate Park Trail Conference adopted the plan and just two years later, on Oct. 7, 1923, the first official section of the Appalachian Trail opened between Bear Mountain and Arden Valley.

The Town of Warwick, NY, in Orange County, was designated an official Appalachian Trail Community by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy in 2012. Appalachian Trail Communities are noted for promoting and protecting the Appalachian Trail, in addition to being good neighbors to those who hike the AT.

Trails Overview:

Although this hike is almost entirely on the Appalachian Trail (AT), there are short stints on blue-blazed trails. A Blue Blaze is a spur, bypass or connector trail branching off of the Appalachian Trail that can be used as an alternate route of the AT that rejoins it further down the path.

The trails on this hike are well marked and easy to follow. The only challenging sections are where the AT climbs over the Eastern Pinnacles and Cat Rocks. In both instances there is a blue-blazed trail that lets you bypass the rock scramble. By bypassing the scramble over the two rock formations, you would also be bypassing the views as well.

Hike Overview:

This hike begins at the parking lot that is adjacent to the Bellvale Farms Creamery. This is the parking area for the Mount Peter Hawk Watch. I chose beginning the hike from here to avoid having to cross Route 17A. There are additional gravel parking lots on the opposite side of Route 17A, directly across from the Creamery.

From the parking lot on the same side as the Bellvale Farms Creamery, there are stone steps that lead up to the viewing platform for the Mount Peter Hawk Watch. A blue-blazed connector trail begins just to the right of the platform that connects to the AT in about 1,000 feet.

stone steps – Mount Peter Hawk Watch

The AT travels along the ridge of Bellvale Mountain in the Town of Warwick. Along the way it climbs and crosses over the Eastern Pinnacles, a puddingstone rock formation with dramatic views to the north and east.

The trail descends, then climbs to Cat Rocks, another fascinating puddingstone rock formation that protrudes out of the forest like a tower. Cat Rocks is the turn around spot for this hike. From there it’s just retracing your steps along the AT, using the Blue Bypass Trails if you don’t feel like reclimbing the rock formations.

Eastern Pinnacles & Cat Rocks from Route 17A

The Hike:

From the gravel parking area, climb the stone steps about 150 feet to the start of the Blue Connector Trail. To the left is the Mount Peter Hawk Watch viewing platform. Take a moment here if you like to check out the west-facing views.

stone steps – Mount Peter Hawk Watch

Mount Peter Hawk Watch is one of several famous hawk watches in the northeast and is the third oldest in the country. This scenic overlook provides an expansive view of the Warwick Valley through which record numbers of migrating raptors pass during fall migration.

Mount Peter Hawk Watch

When you are ready to continue, look for three blue blazes on a tree and proceed ahead on the Blue Trail. The Blue Trail descends towards Route 17A then turns left paralleling the road. In about a 1,000 feet there are three blue blazes on a rock signaling the end of the Blue Trail. Just ahead is the Appalachian Trail (AT), which comes in from the right. Continue straight (Do not turn right. If you cross the road you are going the wrong way.), now following the white blazes of the AT.

Blue Connector Trail

terminus of Blue Connector Trail

At first, the trail parallels the noisy Route 17A, but the road soon bends to the right, away from the trail, and the sounds of traffic disappear. The A.T. proceeds gently uphill, crosses a gas pipeline, and continues through an area with dense hemlock and mountain laurel. It then begins a gradual descent.

Appalachian Trail – Bellvale Mountain

About 1.4 miles from the start, you’ll notice the start of a blue-blazed side trail. You’re now just below a spectacular outcrop of puddingstone rock known as the Eastern Pinnacles, and the side trail is provided so that A.T. thru-hikers won’t have to climb up the rock outcrop in bad weather (the rocks can be very slippery when wet). Hopefully, you’ve picked a day with good weather for your hike, and you’ll want to follow the white blazes ahead and scramble up the rock outcrop, which offers magnificent views to the north and east over the hills of Sterling Forest.

junction of AT and Blue Bypass Trail

Eastern Pinnacles – Bellvale Mountain

As you begin the climb of the Eastern Pinnacles, there is a shorter bypass trail on the left (also marked blue) that lets hikers skip the first steep climb.

Eastern Pinnacles – Bellvale Mountain

The A.T. continues along the exposed rocks, with more views. You’ll have to use both your hands and your feet to negotiate this trail section.

Eastern Pinnacles – Bellvale Mountain

Eastern Pinnacles – Appalachian Trail

Eastern Pinnacles – Bellvale Mountain

That rock tower that protrudes out of the forest to the north, is Cat Rocks.

view of Cat Rocks and beyond from Eastern Pinnacles

A zoomed in view shows two hikers sitting at the top of Cat Rocks enjoying a break.

Cat Rocks as viewed from Eastern Pinnacles

At the end of the Eastern Pinnacles, the trail comes to the northern junction of the Blue Bypass Trail.

Eastern Pinnacles – Appalachian Trail

Eastern Pinnacles – Bellvale Mountain

junction of AT and Blue Bypass Trail

The white-blazed A.T. now heads gently downhill. It goes through dense mountain laurel thickets and traverses a wet area, crossing several streams as it levels off.

Appalachian Trail – Bellvale Mountain

Soon the trail begins to climb moderately then levels off somewhat.

Appalachian Trail – Bellvale Mountain

The AT passes a skull-like rock formation along the way.

Appalachian Trail – Bellvale Mountain

The AT then climbs to Cat Rocks, another dramatic rock formation. Again, there is a blue-blazed trail that bypasses this feature, but you’ll want to follow the white blazes to the top of these fascinating puddingstone rocks. The east-facing view from Cat Rocks has largely grown in, but this outcrop is even more spectacular than the Eastern Pinnacles because of the sheer drop from the top of the outcrop and the deep crevice on the left at the north end.

Appalachian Trail – Bellvale Mountain

Cat Rocks – Bellvale Mountain

At the top of Cat Rocks, the AT levels off (this is the same spot where we saw hikers sitting in the zoomed in view). Soon the trail begins to descend steeply to a junction with the other end of the Blue Bypass Trail.

Cat Rocks – Bellvale Mountain

Looking back at the route from which we just descended.

Cat Rocks – Bellvale Mountain

This is the turn around spot for this hike. Turn right on the Blue Bypass Trail and follow it to its terminus at a junction with the AT and turn left.

Blue Bypass Trail – Cat Rocks

Now you’ll be heading in a southerly direction on the AT, retracing your steps.

Appalachian Trail – Bellvale Mountain

When you reach the Eastern Pinnacles, veer right onto the Blue Bypass Trail (unless of course you want to do the rock scramble again) and follow the blue blazes as they lead uphill with the Eastern Pinnacles visible through the trees on the left.

AT & Blue Bypass Trail junction

Blue Bypass Trail – Eastern Pinnacles

At the end of the Blue Bypass Trail, turn right, rejoining the AT. In about another mile, The AT turns left to cross Route 17A at a junction with the Blue Connector Trail. Continue straight, now following the blue blazes until its terminus near the Mount Peter Hawk Watch. Turn left and descend the stone steps that you climbed at the beginning of the hike, returning to the gravel parking lot, where the hike began.

Blue Bypass Trail – Eastern Pinnacles

AT & Blue Connector Trail junction

Blue Connector Trail – Mount Peter Hawk Watch

You may want to stop at the Bellvale Farms Creamery which is adjacent to the parking lot. They have some of the best ice cream around. They are open from April 1st to October. Unfortunately for us, it wasn’t yet open for the season when we did this hike.

Bellvale Farms Creamery

Review:

This hike was very enjoyable and a lot of fun. Although we crossed paths with quite a few hikers, it didn’t feel crowded. In most cases they were going in the opposite direction. The AT is well marked and maintained. The Blue Bypass Trails make it easy for anyone that doesn’t want to do the rock scrambles to skip those sections. The views from the Eastern Pinnacles are some of the best around. A must do hike in the Hudson Valley.

Pros:

Eastern Pinnacles, Cat Rocks, Appalachian Trail, outstanding views.

Cons:

Some road noise at the beginning and end of the hike near Route 17A.

Take a hike!

Eastern Pinnacles & Cat Rocks from Route 17A

Sources:

Spiderweed Preserve

Posted on March 12, 2022

March 5, 2022 – Middletown, Connecticut

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 3.2 miles

Max elevation: 596 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 700 ft.

Route type: Lollipop Loop

Map: Spiderweed Preserve Trail Map

Trailhead parking: 1-147 Dripps Rd, Middletown, CT 06457

No bathrooms on site – No entrance or parking fees

Parking for approximately 5 vehicles alongside road at the trailhead.

Overview:

Spiderweed Preserve offers a three-mile hike through dry oak woods, along massive rock outcrops to a rock bluff with a view toward the south of the Connecticut River Valley. Along the way the stone ruins of Helen Lohman’s rustic country retreat are there for hikers to explore.

Spiderweed ruins

This 157-acre property is owned and managed by The Nature Conservancy and the Middlesex Land Trust.

History:

Spiderweed Preserve was created by a donation from Helen Lohman of Middletown in 1975; she named the area after the sad state in which she found her gardens every spring.

Located in Maromas (the original Indian name Regowset), a district in the Town of Middletown. Maromas is situated in the southeastern section of Middletown on the western bank of the Connecticut River. Maromas is an area of hills, valleys and ridges. The highest point is Bear Hill (650 ft.), which is sometimes spelled “Bare” because of its steep slopes and numerous areas of exposed bedrock.

Spiderweed, historically known as the “Soloman Hubbard Farm,” was originally built as the homestead of Soloman Hubbard in the mid 18th century. His father, also named Soloman Hubbard had also farmed in the “Great tier of Lotts,” and his house stood nearby. The younger Soloman Hubbard, builder of this house, accumulated land from his father’s estate and from his neighbors. In 1817 Soloman Hubbard deeded the house and land to the Town of Middletown for the payment of debts, reserving life tenancy for himself and his wife. Hubbard is said to have been prevented from operating the farm due to an injury suffered in the Revolutionary War.

After Hubbard’s death, the Town of Middletown sold the 2-1/2 story, 27 ft. x 31 ft. Center-Chimney Colonial to the Bailey family. It was then sold to the Dripps family in 1866. The house primarily remained in the hands of the Dripps and Meader families (related by marriage) until purchased by Miss Helen Lohman in 1936. Miss Lohman kept intact the acreage which had been acquired through the years of the home’s use as a farm. Renaming it Spiderweed, Miss Lohman used the property as a rustic country retreat. The home never had modern heat or plumbing.

Helen Lohman demonstrated her concern for the house and land by deeding it to the Connecticut Chapter of The Nature Conservancy in 1975. Today the property reflects the continued use of the land for over 200 years, both as farm and as a country retreat. It is now mostly heavily wooded with overgrown fields. The Nature Conservancy maintains the 157-acre property as a nature preserve.

The Nature Conservancy

Trails Overview:

Spiderweed Preserve has one official trail that is blazed white and runs through the property using a combination of old farm roads and footpaths. There are three short spur trails, one leading to the stone ruins of Helen Lohman’s rustic retreat, and the other two leading to viewpoints over the Connecticut River Valley.

An unmarked trail (not shown on map), leaves the preserve and heads towards the summit of Bear Hill and the Mattabesett Trail (New England National Scenic Trail) which allows hikers to form longer loop hikes.

Spiderweed Trail Map

Hike Overview:

This hike is entirely in the Spiderweed Preserve utilizing the White Trail and the short spurs that branch off of it. We arrived at the trailhead on a Saturday morning shortly before 9am. The temperature was in the low to mid 20’s and there were no other vehicles when we arrived. We only saw two other hikers the entire time we were there, as we were nearing the end of the hike. It was a quiet and peaceful day in the woods, not even the birds were chirping.

This is a moderate hike with several short, steep ascents. Although it’s technically a “Lollipop Loop,” the loop is small and the “stick” is long, making it more of an out and back.

Spiderweed Preserve

elevation profile – Spiderweed Preserve

There were plenty of maps in the kiosk at the trailhead, but it is a good idea to print one beforehand just in case.

kiosk – Spiderweed Preserve

The Hike:

This hike begins at the trailhead on Dripps Road. Proceed past the gate onto the woods road as it leads uphill on a moderate grade. This is the White Trail, which you will be following for the entire hike. The White Trail follows what was once the entrance road or driveway to the Helen Lohman house.

Trailhead – Spiderweed Preserve

White Trail – Spiderweed Preserve

In about 0.5 mile from the start, there is a short spur trail (a wide woods road) on the left that leads to the Spiderweed Ruins. You may want to take some time to explore this interesting historical feature. Please use caution as the walls can be unstable.

Spiderweed stone ruins

The front wall has collapsed and now lays on the ground of what once was a 2-1/2 story, 27 ft. x 31 ft. Center-Chimney Colonial farmhouse.

Spiderweed stone ruins

When you are ready to continue, return to the White Trail and turn left. A short distance later, you will see three white blazes on a tree. Turn right on this spur trail (also blazed white) and walk about 200 feet to a rock outcrop with southeast-facing views over the Connecticut River Valley.

turn right on spur trail to viewpoint

The view is not the greatest, but it is better during leaf-off season.

first viewpoint – Spiderweed Preserve

When you are done admiring the view, retrace your steps, rejoining the main artery of the White Trail and turn right. Now heading northeast, the White Trail snakes through the woods with some magnificent rock formations that loom high overhead to the left of the trail.

turn right on White Trail

White Trail – Spiderweed Preserve

About 0.8 mile from the start, the White Trail turns right. The unmarked trail that is straight ahead, leads to Bear Hill and the Mattabesett Trail, leaving the Spiderweed Preserve. Turn right to remain on the White Trail which soon descends steeply.

turn right to remain on White Trail

White Trail – Spiderweed Preserve

Near the base of the descent, the trail levels off briefly, travels through a wet area and soon continues to descend, now more gradually. The White Trail then crosses a small stream.

White Trail – Spiderweed Preserve

A short distance after crossing the stream, the White Trail turns left and follows an old farm lane bordered by a Colonial era stone wall.

White Trail – Spiderweed Preserve

In about 1.5 miles from the start of the hike, the White Trail comes to the loop section. Going in either direction will bring you back to this spot. We opted to go left and soon the trail begins to climb. The ascent is somewhat steep, but it is short lived. At the top of the rise, the trail turns right and reaches a rock bluff that overlooks the countryside.

start of loop section – Spiderweed Preserve

White Trail – Spiderweed Preserve

2nd viewpoint – Spiderweed Preserve

The trail then descends steeply alongside that same rock formation. As you descend you can see the mammoth proportions of the rock formation that you were just standing on.

White Trail – Spiderweed Preserve

massive rock formation – Spiderweed Preserve

At the base of the rock formation there is an overhang that qualifies as a rock shelter.

massive rock formation – Spiderweed Preserve

The trail continues to descend, but now more gently. To the right of the trail, up on the hillside is another rock shelter that is worth checking out. During the warmer months, it may be obscured by foliage to some degree and thus harder to see.

White Trail – Spiderweed Preserve

rock shelter – Spiderweed Preserve

The White Trail continues its descent, soon skirting private property. As the trail levels off, it crosses a small stream, passes through an area with some boulders scattered about then closes the loop.

White Trail – Spiderweed Preserve

After closing the loop, you are now retracing your steps along the stone wall, crossing another stream and turning left at the junction with the unmarked trail.

White Trail – Spiderweed Preserve

turn left to remain on White Trail

You may want to pay a return visit to the first viewpoint and if the leaves are down, you can venture slightly off trail for a different angle of the Spiderweed Ruins.

first viewpoint – Spiderweed Preserve

Spiderweed ruins

Spiderweed stone ruins

Continuing on the White Trail in a westerly fashion, it descends on the woods road soon returning to the trailhead where the hike began.

White Trail – Spiderweed Preserve

Review:

A great hike through a very scenic area. The views are nothing to speak of, but the stone ruins, massive rock formations, including the rock shelters, make this a worthwhile hike. This is a hike better done when the leaves are down. The views are more expansive and the rock formations that border the trail are more clearly visible. Some of the more narrow sections of the trail can become overgrown during the warmer months. On colder days, you are less likely to see many people. The trails are well marked, but there are some soggy sections. Appropriate footwear is advisable. I highly recommend the Spiderweed Preserve to anyone that is looking for an interesting moderate hike.

Pros:

Spiderweed Ruins, massive rock formations, rock shelters, well marked trail, not much foot traffic.

Cons:

Views are uninspiring.

Take a hike!

Spiderweed Preserve

Highbridge Water Tower

Posted on December 13, 2021

December 12, 2021 – New York, NY

Brochure & Map: Highbridge Park: A Visitors Guide

Street parking available near Highbridge Recreation Center – 2301 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10033

Please note: There are multiple access points to reach the tower. The address above will leave you closest to the tower.

Bathrooms on site – No entrance fees

History:

The tower in Highbridge Park near the west end of High Bridge was built in 1872 as part of the Croton Water System that brought fresh water to Manhattan. It was the first water tower to be built in Manhattan as part of this system and the only tower that survives. The octagonal structure is made of rough-cut stone and is almost 400 feet above the high water level of the nearby Harlem River. The Highbridge Water Tower stopped being used for the water supply system in 1949. The tower became a New York City Landmark in 1967 and was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. The tower was renovated in 1989 to 1990 and was closed again for renovations around 2011, but reopened for scheduled tours beginning in November 2021.

Highbridge Water Tower – 1872

Highbridge Tower – December 2021

The High Bridge Tower is at the Manhattan end of the famed High Bridge, originally named the Aqueduct Bridge. It opened as part of the Croton Aqueduct in 1848 and reopened as a pedestrian walkway in 2015 after being closed for over 45 years. High Bridge is New York City’s oldest standing bridge and connects Manhattan and the Bronx, spanning the Harlem River. The High Bridge connects the neighborhoods of Washington Heights in Manhattan and Highbridge in the Bronx, and is accessible from both boroughs.

High Bridge during construction

The walkway was completed in 1864, making it a popular spot to promenade on a nice day. After construction of the Major Deegan Expressway in 1956 and Harlem River Drive in 1964, public use of the waterfront faded. The river became polluted, paths were blocked, and the pull of the parks on the water’s edge vanished. In the 1970’s, public access to the bridge was discontinued.

High Bridge

Local pressure to reopen the bridge began soon after, and eventually, groups such as The High Bridge Coalition were able to coalesce that support into a citizen-led campaign to restore the High Bridge and its neighboring parks. In 2012, NYC began rehabilitating the bridge, and it was reopened in June 2015, but the tower remained off limits.

High Bridge & Tower – 2015

The 200-foot tall octagonal Tower was built to bring fresh drinking water to the highest points in northern Manhattan. Water from the Croton Aqueduct started flowing in the lower and middle sections of the island in 1842 and the High Bridge was completed in 1848, as a permanent means to carry the aqueduct across the Harlem River.

Upper Manhattan was not served by the aqueduct that passed through it due to the area’s hilly terrain. The system provided water pressure by means of gravity and therefore locations higher than the Central Park Reservoir were left high and dry.

To remedy this, New York City built the High Service Water Works near the High Bridge, consisting of several facilities. The Highbridge Tower, completed in the summer of 1872, is all that remains. Other components that are now long gone and mostly forgotten, included a reservoir, opened in 1870 and replaced by the Highbridge Park pool in the mid 1930’s, plus pumping stations, a coal dock, and a coal shed.

High Bridge, High Service Water Works and Reservoir – 1871

The octagonal tower once held a 47-thousand gallon water tank. A steam powered pumping station near the base of the tower pumped water into the tank from an adjacent reservoir, now a public swimming pool. As the water flowed back down from the tower down into city pipes, gravity created water pressure.

The Tower operated until December 15, 1949, when it was rendered unnecessary by a new electric powered pumping station on Amsterdam Avenue. The Department of Water Supply, Gas, and Electricity wanted to raze the Tower, but it was preserved thanks to, of all people, Robert Moses in his capacity as Parks Commissioner. Along with the High Bridge, also mothballed in 1949, it was transferred to Parks jurisdiction in 1955.

Since then, it has hosted an electric carillon, been designated a New York City Landmark, and was damaged by a 1984 fire and Hurricane Sandy in 2012.

Present Day:

Standing on a bluff 200 feet above the Harlem River, the recently restored High Bridge Water Tower is an iconic, yet enigmatic landmark for many New Yorkers. Built to bring Croton water to the highest points in northern Manhattan, the 200-foot tall structure is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2022.

Highbridge Tower – 2015

Described in 1967 by the Landmarks Preservation Commission as “one of Manhattan’s most picturesque architectural monuments,” the Highbridge Water Tower reopened in October 2021 following a 5 million dollars restoration project. While it no longer is part of the city’s water system, the 200-foot landmark is the only one of its kind that remains today.

Starting November 2021, the NYC Urban Park Rangers will lead free public tours inside the Highbridge Water Tower, which will remain closed to the public at all other times. The tour takes participants inside the iconic tower while learning about the history of the city’s water supply from 200 feet above the Harlem River. Registration is required.

Tour Overview:

Public tours of the inside of the newly renovated Highbridge Tower began on November 21, 2021. We registered and attended a tour that was given on December 12, 2021. It was a blustery Saturday with temps in the high 30’s and having arrived early, we decided to walk around a little to stay warm.

Highbridge Tower – December 2021

We waited patiently for the NYC Urban Park Rangers to arrive, and unlock the door so we could tour the inside of this historic structure.

Highbridge Tower – December 2021

What is now the Tower’s observation level originally housed a 47,000-gallon tank at an elevation of 336 feet. It is a light-filled space, with two large arch-shaped windows on each of the tower’s eight walls, facilitating tank inspections and repairs in an era before electric lighting. Today they offer expansive vistas.

Highbridge Tower – December 2021

The recent renovation project included restoration of cracked granite, repointing, restoration of the iron staircase and iron railings, new 15-Foot-high windows, repairs to the roof and weathervane, and several safety measures.

Highbridge Tower – December 2021

A view of High Bridge from the base of the tower.

High Bridge – December 2021

View south of the Harlem River, with the Bronx on the left and Manhattan on the right.

looking south from the base of Highbridge Tower

The Tour:

In the center of the tower are the pipes that once transported water up and down the tower. We climbed the 174 steps to the top of the Highbridge Water Tower to enjoy 360° views of NYC and parts of NJ.

Highbridge Tower Tour – December 2021

All the views are through glass, so bringing glass cleaning wipes is a good idea.

Highbridge Tower Tour – December 2021

Looking north up the Harlem River to the Alexander Hamilton Bridge with the Washington Bridge just beyond.

Highbridge Tower Tour – December 2021

Looking southwest over the Highbridge Park Pools and Washington Heights. A sliver of the Hudson River can be seen in the upper left.

Highbridge Tower Tour – December 2021

Looking west at the George Washington Bridge.

Highbridge Tower Tour – December 2021

A smaller spiral staircase, off limits to the public, was originally a public lookout in the Tower’s narrow cupola, but the current use of the old tank room provides a more spacious vantage point.

Highbridge Tower Tour – December 2021

The chapel style windows near the top offer views of the George Washington Bridge, the swimming pool, and the Manhattan skyline.

Highbridge Tower Tour – December 2021

If you would like to attend a free tour, led by the Urban Park Rangers, visit NYC Parks for more information.

John T. Brush Stairway:

If you get a chance to visit the Highbridge Water Tower, you may want to check out the John T. Brush Stairway. It’s just under a mile walk through one of the park’s trails. You can also walk down Edgecombe Avenue as well.

Near the southern end of Highbridge Park is a promontory near the western shore of the Harlem River named Coogan’s Bluff. A deep escarpment descends 175 feet from Edgecombe Avenue to the river, creating a sheltered area between the bluff and river known as Coogan’s Hollow. For 73 years, the hollow was home to the Polo Grounds stadium.

Fans on Coogan’s Bluff watch a game between the Giants and Cubs at the Polo Grounds, September 23, 1908

From 1890 until 1963, the bluff overlooked the Polo Grounds, a professional sports venue that served as home field for Major League Baseball’s New York Giants from 1891 until the franchise’s move to San Francisco at the end of the 1957 season. Sportswriters commonly used Coogan’s Bluff as a nickname for the Polo Grounds, as Chavez Ravine now refers to Dodger Stadium, although the ballpark was actually situated in Coogan’s Hollow, the bottomland between the bluff and the river.

Coogan’s Bluff had long been a sort of Tightwad Hill for local fans, a place where those unwilling or unable to pay the stadium’s entrance fee had a clear, if distant, view of the proceedings at no charge.

For nearly a half-century, the stairway played a different role, carrying tenants to a high-rise housing project that replaced the Polo Grounds, and until recently they had crumbled into a dim reminder of a once-proud, bygone era.

John T. Brush Stairway

The original steel lettering remained intact for the past century, although corners of the landing had broken away. During restoration, the landing was returned to its original look.

John T. Brush Stairway

In 2011, the New York City Parks and Recreation Department launched a $950,000 restoration project and the stairway reopened in 2013. Major League Baseball gave $50,000 to the project, along with other old Polo Grounds tenants, the San Francisco Giants; the Yankees, who played there from 1913-23; the Mets; the New York Jets (nee Titans), who played their first four AFL seasons there, and the New York football Giants, who played there from 1925-55.

John T. Brush Stairway – High Bridge Park

About halfway up the stairway there is a landing, before the steps turn left to the top of Coogan’s Bluff (Edgecombe Avenue). Steel letters in the concrete landing read: “The John T. Brush Stairway. Presented by the New York Giants.”

John T. Brush Stairway – High Bridge Park

Sources:

Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Posted on October 9, 2021

October 9, 2021 – Oakland, New Jersey

Difficulty: Easy

Length: Approximately 4 miles

Max elevation: 590 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 317 ft.

Route type: Lollipop Loop

Buy Map: Northern New Jersey Highlands Trails Map 2021

Free Map: Ramapo Mountain State Forest Map 2021

Avenza Maps: Northern New Jersey Highlands (#150 Ramapos Only) 2021

Trailhead parking: Ramapo Lake Trailhead – 67 Skyline Drive, Oakland, NJ 07436

No entrance or parking fees – parking lot often fills up early on weekends

Overview:

Ramapo Mountain State Forest located in Bergen and Passaic Counties in New Jersey, is a rugged 4,269-acre area, with elevations ranging from about 200 to 1,100 feet, offering hikers nearly 30 miles of trails for their enjoyment. From meandering old roads, to historic trails, to more challenging rock scrambles, the area offers something for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels.

The central feature of the area is the scenic 120-acre Ramapo Lake, which has spectacular views from numerous rock outcroppings and ledges, and offers excellent opportunities for fishermen. The ponds, streams and marshes found within the forest provide the perfect habitat for birds and other wildlife species.

Ramapo Lake – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

The Ramapo Mountain State Forest, which includes wild lands in the municipalities of Oakland (Bergen County), Pompton Lakes, Ringwood and Wanaque, borders Ringwood State Park and the Ramapo Valley County Reservation, a part of the Bergen County Park System. The park is operated and maintained by the New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry.

Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Trails Overview:

The Ramapo Lake Loop Trail (2.6 miles), which encircles the man-made lake, is a popular hike, accessed from the lower parking lot on Skyline Drive via the Ramapo Lake Spur (0.6 mile). The trail around the lake is a mostly level woods road with a few minor ups and downs. Ramapo Lake is the hub of the trail system in the 1,400-acre Ramapo Lake Natural Area within the forest.

The Ramapo Lake Spur Trail is an uphill walk from the parking lot on an eroded and rocky woods road, gaining about 190 feet of elevation in about 0.6 mile.

Hike Overview:

Dealing with some health issues, I was looking for a relaxing walk where I could just soak in some nature on a mild October day. This hike was perfect and it really fit the bill. Knowing that the parking lot fills up early on weekends, we arrived shortly before 9am on a Saturday morning. The lot was already nearly full, but we managed to find a spot to park. We did the loop clockwise stopping often to take photographs and take in the scenery.

Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Besides the initial uphill, the rest of the hike was an easy stroll around the lake. The elevation graph below illustrates the gentle ups and downs for most of the hike.

elevation profile – Ramapo Lake Loop

This hike can be combined with the LeGrande Hill Loop or the Van Slyke Castle Loop.

The Hike:

At the southern end of the parking area, a triple black-square-on-blue blaze marks the start of the Ramapo Lake Spur. Follow the trail into the woods, passing stone ruins. After going up a steep pitch, the trail continues to climb on a wide, rocky path, paralleling a cascading brook (particularly attractive after heavy rains).

Ramapo Lake Spur – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

As you approach the crest of the rise, you’ll cross a stream on rocks. A short distance beyond, the white-blazed Castle Loop joins from the right. Just ahead, the trails bear left at a fork and descend to a trail junction at Ramapo Lake, where the Ramapo Lake Spur ends (there are street signs at the junction for South Shore Drive, North Shore Drive and Rye Cliff Road). Here, you should turn left, crossing the dam of Ramapo Lake.

Ramapo Lake Spur – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

terminus of Ramapo Lake Spur

turn left on Ramapo Lake Loop

Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

On the other side of the dam, a triple blue-on-white blaze marks the start of the Ramapo Lake Loop. You will be following this trail in a clockwise direction around the lake. Just ahead, the red-on-white-blazed LeGrande Hill Loop begins on the left, and for the next 500 feet, the route is co-blazed with red-on-white markers. Continue to follow the blue-on-white blazes along the wide gravel road, which runs close to the lakeshore, with views across the lake. To the north, atop a hill with several pines, you can see the ruins of Foxcroft, a mansion built in 1910 which fell into disrepair in the 1950’s. (The Castle Loop, which leads to the ruins of this mansion, is another great hike in this area.)

Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

The road proceeds through dense vegetation, crosses a causeway over an arm of the lake, and passes a swamp on the left and several interesting rock outcrops. It then moves away from the lakeshore but continues to parallel it, with views over the lake through the trees.

Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Just past the southern end of the lake, about a mile from the dam, the road reaches a T-intersection. Here, the red/blue LeGrande-Lake Connector begins on the left, but you should turn right to continue on the Ramapo Lake Loop. Then, in another 300 feet, bear right at a Y-intersection where the Cannonball Trail, marked by white-“C”-on-red blazes, joins from the left.

Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

You’re now heading north through dense vegetation, paralleling the western shore of Ramapo Lake. At first, the road runs some distance from the water, but after a while, the lake can be seen through the trees. In half a mile, you’ll pass a building on the hillside to the left (formerly used as a ranger station) and, a short distance beyond, a rock ledge to the right of the trail offers a pleasant view of the lake.

Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Soon, another gravel road joins from the left. Follow the road ahead, crossing a stone causeway that isolates a quiet pond on the left from the main body of the lake. Next, you’ll reach another Y-intersection. Here, the Cannonball Trail turns left onto an intersecting gravel road, but you should bear right and continue to follow the blue-on-white blazes. A short distance ahead, you’ll notice a triple-blue blaze on the right. Follow this blue-blazed side trail for 500 feet to a rock outcrop overlooking the lake. After taking in the view, return to the Ramapo Lake Loop and turn right.

Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

After passing a small, abandoned stone building on the right, there are open views of Ramapo Lake from the shoreline.

Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

A short distance later, you’ll come to another intersection. Here, you should bear right, once more joining the white-blazed Castle Loop. Follow the white and blue-on-white-blazed gravel road that runs close to the shore along the northern end of the lake, passing a viewpoint over the lake from a rock ledge on the right.

Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Soon, you’ll pass a private residence on a ledge to the left. At the end of the lake, a triple blue-on-white blaze marks the end of the Ramapo Lake Loop. Continue ahead to a T-intersection with street signs, proceed through a gap in the guardrail at a sign for the Castle Loop Trail and the Ramapo Lake Spur Trail, and continue along the black-square-on-blue-blazed Ramapo Lake Spur, retracing your steps back to the parking area where the hike began.

Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Review:

A beautiful area to spend a few hours. More like a stroll than a hike, but worth a visit nonetheless. Especially scenic in Autumn when the leaves change. Although there was quite a few people here on a Saturday, it didn’t feel crowded. Many viewpoints over the lake to relax and enjoy a snack.

Pros:

Extremely scenic landscape, well marked trails.

Cons:

Can get crowded on weekends, no overflow parking.

Take a hike!

Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Sources:

LeGrande Hill Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Posted on September 19, 2021

September 19, 2021 – Oakland, New Jersey

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 4 miles

Max elevation: 716 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 564 ft.

Route type: Lollipop Loop

Buy Map: Northern New Jersey Highlands Trails Map 2021

Free Map: Ramapo Mountain State Forest Map 2021

Avenza Maps: Northern New Jersey Highlands (#150 Ramapos Only) 2021

Trailhead parking: Ramapo Lake Trailhead – 67 Skyline Drive, Oakland, NJ 07436

No entrance or parking fees – parking lot often fills up early on weekends

Overview:

Ramapo Lake – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Trails Overview:

A system of marked hiking and multi-use trails are available for the public to explore. The nearly 30 miles of trails offer visitors opportunities to hike interior woodlands and rocky vistas. Sweeping views of the New York City Skyline and the surrounding hillsides await outdoor enthusiasts.

The Ramapo Lake Spur Trail is an uphill walk from the parking lot on an eroded and rocky woods road, gaining about 190 feet of elevation in about 0.6 mile.

Ramapo Lake Spur – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

The LeGrande Hill Loop Trail (1.9 mi) is a short loop trail southeast of Ramapo Lake. The trail follows a creek then winds through hillsides above the Ramapo River.

LeGrande Hill Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Hike Overview:

This is a good moderate loop hike through a picturesque area. Views of the lake and from the viewpoints make this hike worth the minimal effort. The trails are well marked and easy to follow. This Lollipop-Loop was done in a clockwise manner, with the “stick” being the Ramapo Lake Spur.

LeGrande Hill Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

There are a couple of steep sections, but mostly just gradual ups and downs.

elevation profile – LeGrande Hill Loop

The Hike:

Ramapo Lake Spur – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

terminus of Ramapo Lake Spur

Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Ramapo Lake Dam – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Ramapo Lake – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

On the other side of the dam, a triple blue-on-white blaze marks the start of the Ramapo Lake Loop. Just ahead, a sign marks the start of the red-on-white-blazed LeGrande Hill Loop. Turn left, leaving the lakeshore road, and follow the red-on-white trail, which rises briefly, then dips down to parallel a stream (the other side of the stream that you followed on the way up to the lake). Soon, it turns away from the stream and begins a steady climb for about a quarter of a mile. At the crest of the rise, the trail levels off, descends slightly and soon turns sharply right.

Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

LeGrande Hill Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

At the spot where the trail turns sharp right, there is a faint footpath straight ahead which offers some nice views south of Bergen County and beyond.

south-facing viewpoint just off the LeGrande Hill Loop Trail

Return to the trail and bear left. Just beyond the sharp right turn, you’ll notice a rock outcrop on the left. Turn left and climb this outcrop, which offers a panoramic southwest-facing view. Pompton Lake is visible on the left, and the ridge of Pyramid Mountain may be seen on the right. We missed this view.

LeGrande Hill Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Return to the trail and turn left. The red-on-white trail continues at about the same elevation, with several short but steep ups and downs, for two-thirds of a mile. Along the way, a side trail on the left (reached after a short climb) leads to another rock ledge with a limited east-facing view.

LeGrande Hill Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

limited east-facing view – LeGrande Hill Loop

Then, after passing a cliff on the right and climbing around to the top of the cliff, you’ll reach a junction with the red/blue-blazed LeGrande-Lake Connector amidst pine trees. Turn left at this junction and follow the red/blue trail. A few steps ahead along this trail is a rock outcrop, with pitch pines. At the base of the outcrop, a short trail leads to a west-facing viewpoint. The Wyanokies stand out in sharp contrast against the horizon.

LeGrande Hill Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

turn left red/blue-blazed LeGrande-Lake Connector Trail

west-facing viewpoint – LeGrande-Lake Connector Trail

Return to the junction and bear left on the red-on-white-blazed LeGrande Hill Loop. Soon, you’ll reach a rock ledge with a broader view over the Wyanokies in the distance.

LeGrande Hill Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

view over the Wyanokies – LeGrande Hill Loop

Then, after crossing a seasonal stream, the trail climbs to pass a vernal pool, below on the right. After climbing some more, you’ll reach a rock outcrop with an expansive view over the Wyanokies and Ramapo Lake below. You’ll want to pause here to enjoy the view.

LeGrande Hill Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

The prominent peak behind Ramapo Lake is Windbeam Mountain.

view over the Wyanokies and Ramapo Lake – LeGrande Hill Loop

From the viewpoint, the trail descends steadily, passing another vernal pool on the right, and soon ends at the gravel road that runs along the shore of the lake.

LeGrande Hill Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Ramapo Lake – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Turn right onto the gravel road. The LeGrande Hill Loop is now co-aligned with the blue-on-white-blazed Ramapo Lake Loop Trail. In about 500 feet, the LeGrande Hill Loop Trail ends, closing the loop. Proceed ahead on the blue-on-white-blazed Ramapo Lake Loop Trail, crossing the dam.

LeGrande Hill Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Ramapo Lake Dam – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Ramapo Lake – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

When you reach the north end of the dam, turn right at a sign for the Castle Loop Trail and the Ramapo Lake Spur Trail, proceed through a gap in the guardrail, and continue along the black-square-on-blue-blazed Ramapo Lake Spur, retracing your steps back to the parking area where the hike began.

turn right on Ramapo Lake Spur Trail

Ramapo Lake Spur – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Review:

Although the views are less than spectacular, it was a nice hike. We did not see anyone on the LeGrande Hill Loop and a handful near the lake. As always, we got an early start to beat the crowds. The lot was full when we returned to the parking lot at approximately 11:30 am. This hike can be combined with the Ramapo Lake Loop or the Van Slyke Castle Loop for a longer hike.

Pros:

Well marked trails that are easy to follow, scenic area.

Cons:

Parking lot fills up early on weekends, views are not that great.

Take a hike!

LeGrande Hill Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Sources:

Mineral Springs Falls and Jupiter’s Boulder – Black Rock Forest

Posted on September 6, 2021

September 6, 2021 – Highland Mills, NY

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 3 miles

Max elevation: 1325 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 636 ft.

Route type: Out and back

Maps: West Hudson Trails Map #113 – Black Rock Forest trails

Trailhead parking: Old Mineral Springs Road – Highland Mills, NY 10930

No bathrooms on site – No entrance or parking fees

Roadside parking for approximately 8-10 vehicles.

Please note: There is no entry to Black Rock Forest during deer-rifle season.

Overview:

Black Rock Forest in Cornwall, N.Y., features dramatic topography, numerous lakes and streams, and a high diversity of species and habitat, making it a valuable place for research as well as hikes. Located just north of Harriman and west of Storm King state parks, it functions as a 3,914-acre “living laboratory” dedicated to advancing the scientific understanding of the natural world through programs in research, education, and conservation. As a scientific field station that is also open to the public for day use, Black Rock Forest is an incredible resource for exploring and learning about nature in the Hudson Valley.

Linked to Storm King State Park by the Stillman Trail, Black Rock Forest is the largest area in the Highlands with a sustained elevation over 1,200 feet. Here the mountains plunge for more than 1,000 feet to the west, north and south, providing the hiker with sweeping vistas and strongly contrasting habitats.

History:

Since at least the 1690’s, European settlers used Black Rock Forest lands for subsistence farming, livestock grazing, and production of wood products. Commercial farming and lumbering peaked between 1790 and 1880. Homesteaders cultivated wheat, created orchards, and dairy farmed on Forest lands, while continuing to cut timber for cordwood and charcoal. Some Forest lands were also mined for iron ore. Two of the abandoned mines are still visible today on Whitehorse Mountain and on Sackett Ridge.

During the American Revolution. The Continental Army used Continental Road, which bisects the forest, as a route across the mountains from West Point to New Windsor and Newburgh. From Spy Rock, sentinels from Washington’s camp at Newburgh monitored British vessels sailing up the Hudson from Haverstraw Bay.

In the late 1800’s, the Stillman family, drawn by the beauty of the Highlands, began to purchase tracts of mountain land in Cornwall, including homesteaders’ farms that had fallen into disuse. From these lands, Dr. Ernest G. Stillman created Black Rock Forest in 1929, designating it as a resource for forest research and demonstration. Stillman’s forest crew implemented plantings, fertilization trials, and selective logging, and weeded out “undesirable” species. The Forest, much of which had been logged and/or farmed for two centuries, steadily improved in health.

Dr. Ernest G. Stillman, who was dedicated to science, left the forest to Harvard University, his alma mater, by bequest in 1949 and it remained the property of Harvard University until 1989. Black Rock Forest Consortium (now known simply as Black Rock Forest) was formed in 1989 by William T. Golden, following his purchase of the Forest from Harvard, and by 15 founding institutional members.

The forest is now administered by a group of public and private educational and research institutions whose mission is to promote scientific research and excellence in education while carefully managing the ecosystem of the forest. Despite this primary educational emphasis, the Consortium is dedicated to keeping Black Rock Forest open to the public for recreational pursuits such as hiking.

Trails Overview:

There are 23 blazed trails within the forest along with a network of old logging and mining roads, including the Continental Road. Together with cut footpaths, they provide over 30 miles of trails in Black Rock Forest and can be used to form interesting loop hikes.

The white-blazed Scenic Trail, the longest in the forest at 5.9 miles, runs from its western trailhead on Old Mineral Springs Road near Mineral Spring Falls, atop the ridge past Spy Rock to end at a junction with the Stillman Trail near Mount Misery.

Hike Overview:

The Scenic Trail on the west side of the forest is a very rewarding out-and-back hike option for moderate effort. Co-aligned with the Highlands Trail, it’s a 1.35-mile (each way) trek that packs in a magnificent seasonal waterfall, diverse habitat, and views that stretch to the Catskills. It also features the work of the Trail Conference’s Hudson Nor’Westers Trail Crew, who have remediated several wet and/or eroded areas of the trail over the years.

Mineral Springs Falls and Jupiter’s Boulder – Black Rock Forest

elevation profile – Mineral Springs Falls and Jupiter’s Boulder

The Hike:

You’ll find the trailhead on Old Mineral Springs Road, where there is pull-off parking for about 8-10 cars. This road is owned and maintained by the town and clearly marks where parking ends.

Old Mineral Springs Road

The coaligned Scenic Trail (white blazes) and Highlands Trail (teal diamond blazes) starts on an old woods road. Walk beyond the gate as it heads gradually uphill and past a wooden informational kiosk. Soon the trail heads downhill on the woods road and you should be able to hear the sound of rushing water (depending on the amount of water flow) as the trail parallels Mineral Springs Brook, which is down below on the right.

Old Mineral Springs Road Trailhead

Scenic Trail – Black Rock Forest

In just about a quarter mile, as the white blazes veer left and start to climb, bear right on an unmarked footpath to reach the base of Mineral Springs Falls, a lovely spot for both quiet meditation and a photo opp.

Scenic Trail – Black Rock Forest

Mineral Springs Falls – Black Rock Forest

Turn back about 100 feet, and continue following the marked trail to your right, up alongside the waterfall. You may see tall, black mesh fencing as you climb this section, a reminder that Black Rock Forest is an active research center. The fencing is in place to keep deer out and to encourage recovery of native species that have been trampled from overuse.

Scenic Trail – Black Rock Forest

The trail skirts walls of rock as it climbs along the waterfall. Hikers are asked to remain on the trail and not venture near the falls to avoid both injury and the impacts of erosion. In an effort to create a safe experience and sustainable trail that will last decades, the Hudson Nor’Westers Crew built a beautiful stone staircase along this section in 2019.

Upper Mineral Springs Falls – Black Rock Forest

Scenic Trail – Black Rock Forest

After enjoying the view of the upper falls and the splendidly built trail, continue your rolling ascent along the stream through hemlock groves, mountain laurel, and a young birch forest. Along the way you’ll encounter additional handiwork of the Nor’Westers Crew in the form of two stepping stone bridges that cross Mineral Springs Brook.

Scenic Trail – Black Rock Forest

After crossing the brook a second time, the trail begins a steady ascent on a rocky footpath. In just under another 0.7 mile, Jupiter’s Boulder will appear to your left, marking the turnaround point for this hike. Pausing at this glacial erratic, enjoy the views of Schunnemunk Mountain to your right, the Shawangunk Ridge beyond it, and the Catskill Mountains rising in the distance. This makes for a good spot to take a break and connect with nature. When you are ready to turn back, retrace your steps, following the white and teal blazes back to the trailhead, where the hike began.

Scenic Trail – Black Rock Forest

Jupiter’s Boulder – Black Rock Forest

Review:

A splendid out and back hike through a lesser traveled area of Black Rock Forest. As with most waterfalls, it is better to visit after rainfall for a stronger flow. A good pair of hiking boots is strongly recommended as the trail is rocky and the rocks become quite slick when wet. This writer slipped and fell at Jupiter’s Boulder due to wet conditions. The views are not the best and are probably better during leaf-off season, but still a good hike. We got an early start and only ran in to a pair of hikers at Jupiter’s Boulder, but on the way back passed several small groups near the waterfall.

Pros:

Mineral Springs Falls, Jupiter’s Boulder, lightly trafficked, well marked trails.

Cons:

Rocky trails become very slick when wet.

Take a hike!

Mineral Springs Falls and Jupiter’s Boulder – Black Rock Forest

Sources:

Pine Hill Loop – Pootatuck State Forest

Posted on August 3, 2021

July 31, 2021 – New Fairfield, Connecticut

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 3.6 miles

Max elevation: 1,224 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 719 ft.

Route type: Figure-8 Loop

Map: Pootatuck State Forest Trail Map – DEEP

Avenza App Map (Free): Pootatuck State Forest Trail Map for Avenza

Trailhead parking: 230 Pine Hill Road – New Fairfield, CT 06812

No bathrooms on site – No entrance or parking fees

Parking for approximately 15 vehicles in a gravel lot at the Pine Hill trailhead.

Overview:

Pootatuck State Forest is almost 1,200 acres. It is located primarily in New Fairfield, with a small portion in Sherman. The main block of the Forest rises steeply from the western shore of Squantz Pond. The trails can be accessed from Squantz Pond State Park trails as well as from the Pine Hill Trailhead, off of Pine Hill Road. Recreational activities include hiking, mountain biking, letterboxing, hunting, birdwatching, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing.

Pine Hill Trailhead – Pootatuck State Forest

There are two smaller Pootatuck State Forest property parcels in New Fairfield, near to but disconnected from the main property and Squantz Pond State Park.

The Western Pootatuck State Forest parcel is located north of Beaver Bog Road just west of the intersection of Beaver Bog Road and Short Woods Road.
The Southern Pootatuck State Forest parcel is located between Short Woods Road and CT Route 39 slightly south of the intersection of Beaver Bog Road and Short Woods Road.

Pootatuck State Forest is comprised of steep wooded slopes, interesting rock formations and seasonal mountain streams with a scenic view from a rock outcrop, overlooking Squantz Pond and Candlewood Lake.

Blue Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

History:

Pootatuck (also Pohtatuck, Potatuck) is an Algonquian term translating to “river of the falls,” “falls in river,” or “river with many falls,” depending on where you look.

Most of the Forest was acquired in the 1920’s for about $10 per acre. In the 1930’s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) established a work camp (Camp Hook – May 24, 1933 to Oct. 30, 1935) at the adjacent Squantz Pond State Park. The CCC was very active in the Forest. They planted trees, built roads and fire ponds, salvaged dying chestnut trees for posts and poles, and did forest thinnings to produce firewood. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) left a legacy of hiking trails and fire roads in Pootatuck State Forest that are still in use today.

Trails Overview:

Pootatuck State Forest offers five miles of trails “with various degrees of difficulty.” The official trails are a combination of marked footpaths/old charcoal-wagon roads and wider unmarked fire roads that were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930’s. The scenic view of Squantz Pond and Candlewood Lake from a large rock outcrop, makes for a worthy destination. The trails in Pootatuck State Forest can be combined with those in Squantz Pond State Park. The trails that were hiked on this day were almost entirely shaded by dense tree cover.

Pootatuck State Forest Map

The marked trails are well blazed and maintained. The fire roads, although not blazed are in great shape and easy to follow.

Hike Overview:

Still dealing with some knee issues, I was searching for a moderate short hike with decent views and no crowds. Having hiked Squantz Pond State Park in 2019, I decided to check out the upper trails that connect the State Park and Forest. I was not disappointed. This is a beautiful forest with slightly challenging uphills and a gorgeous view. Getting an early start and hitting the trail by 8:15am on a Saturday morning in July, we did not encounter any other hikers until we were on the last stretch of the Fire Road, less than 1/4 mile from the parking area.

This hike is a Figure 8 Loop, beginning at the Pine Hill Trailhead.

Pine Hill Loop – Pootatuck State Forest

This hike descends from the top of the mountain at the start, leaving a lot of the elevation gain towards the back end. Although I have rated it as moderate, there are some short steep descents on the Blue Trail and a sustained ascent along the Yellow Trail from the Fire Road.

elevation profile – Pootatuck State Forest

The Hike:

At the back end of the parking lot, walk past the metal barrier onto the fire road, labeled on the trail map as “Forest/CCC Road.” Proceed ahead on the Forest/CCC Road for about 300 feet until you reach the start of the Orange Trail which begins on the right.

Pine Hill Trailhead – Pootatuck State Forest

This area was hit pretty hard by a tornado back in May 2018. Always stay alert for “widow-makers.”

Pine Hill Trailhead – Pootatuck State Forest

Fire Road – Pootatuck State Forest

The Forest/CCC Road continues ahead and will be your return route, but for now turn right on the Orange Trail as it heads in an easterly direction. In about 475 yards, the Orange Trail passes an unmarked woods road which begins on the right. Continue ahead following the orange blazes.

Turn right on Orange Trail

Orange Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

Continue straight on Orange Trail

Orange Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

In just under a 1/2 mile (from the start of the Orange Trail), the Orange Trail ends at a T-intersection with the Yellow Trail. Turn right on the Yellow Trail and follow it for about 265 feet until you reach a junction with the Blue Trail, which begins on the left.

Turn right on Yellow Trail

Yellow Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

Turn left on the Blue Trail which dips down a little then climbs gradually on a wide rocky path. Follow the blue blazes for approximately 400 yards until you reach a rocky outcrop that overlooks Squantz Pond and Candlewood Lake.

Turn left on Blue Trail

Blue Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

Squantz Pond is down below on the left and Candlewood Lake in the distance.

Blue Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

This makes for a good spot to take a break and enjoy the view.

Blue Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

The beach at Squantz Pond State Park is visible down below.

Blue Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

A zoomed in view of the picnic area at Squantz Pond State Park with Candlewood Lake just beyond.

Blue Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

When you are ready to continue, proceed ahead on the Blue Trail which begins a steady descent, steeply at times.

Blue Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

At the base of the steep descent, the Blue Trail splits. The trail map shows a viewpoint if you continue straight. We followed the trail seeking out the viewpoint, but did not find one. We even ventured off trail a bit, but no luck. Perhaps it is a seasonal view or we missed it entirely.

Blue Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

Seasonal view?

Blue Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

If you skipped the seasonal view, turn left and continue downhill on the Blue Trail. If you decided to seek out the view, return to the junction and turn right. The Blue Trail continues its rather steep descent for another 510 yards until its terminus at the Forest/CCC Road.

Blue Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

The trail map shows that there are several mountain streams that flow down into Squantz Pond. I have seen images taken by others of lovely cascades flowing over large rocks. On this day the streams were dry, but after a heavy rain or during Spring thaw, you may have better luck. Nevertheless, we turned left and walked north a short distance to where the stream flows under the road. Finding the stream bone dry, we turned around and retraced our steps on the Forest/CCC Road.

End of Blue Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

Forest/CCC Road – Pootatuck State Forest

From the junction of the Blue Trail proceed south on the Forest/CCC Road which descends gradually, passing interesting rock formations and massive boulders along the way.

Forest/CCC Road – Pootatuck State Forest

Soon the Forest/CCC Road begins to climb gradually and passes over another dry stream. A short distance later, the road comes to a junction with the Yellow Trail which begins on the right, marked by a post.

Forest/CCC Road – Pootatuck State Forest

Turn right on Yellow Trail

Turn right on the Yellow Trail and follow it as it heads uphill, gaining all the elevation that you lost on the way down. For the next 1/2 mile, the trail consists of short steep ascents followed by relatively level stretches on switchbacks.

Yellow Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

Keep your eyes on the yellow blazes as several unmarked woods roads converge with the trail.

Yellow Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

In just over a 1/2 mile, the Yellow Trail passes the junction with the Blue Trail from earlier in the hike. Continue ahead on the Yellow Trail (the short section that you took early in the hike) for another 265 feet.

Yellow Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

The blazes signaling a right turn are partially hidden by foliage. At the junction turn right to remain on the Yellow Trail. The Orange Trail which you began your hike on, is on the left.

Yellow Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

Turn right to remain on Yellow Trail

The Yellow Trail descends gradually through the forest, heading north.

Yellow Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

The Yellow Trail temporarily leaves the State Forest and enters property owned by the Candlewood Valley Regional Land Trust.

Yellow Trail – Pootatuck State Forest

The Yellow Trail ends at the Forest/CCC Road. Turn left and follow the fire road uphill for about a 1/2 mile, passing the junction with the Orange Trail and back to the parking lot, where the hike began.

Turn left on Forest/CCC Road

Forest/CCC Road – Pootatuck State Forest

Pine Hill Trailhead – Pootatuck State Forest

Review:

A really good hike that sees little foot traffic. The trails we took were entirely shaded which makes it a great hike for hot sunny days. The view is worth a visit on its own, but the geological makeup of the area keeps the hike interesting as well. The trails are well marked and the fire roads are easy to follow. The trails at Pootatuck State Forest can be combined with those at Squantz Pond State Park to form longer loop hikes. The area was free of trash, if you visit, please keep it that way.

Pros:

Very beautiful forest, rock formations, scenic view, quiet area.

Cons:

None.

Take a hike!

Pine Hill Loop – Pootatuck State Forest

Sources:

Scenes From The Trail

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