Giant Stairs Loop – Palisades Interstate Park

Posted on October 30, 2022

October 30, 2022 – Closter, NJ

Difficulty: Strenuous

Length: Approximately 4.6 miles

Max elevation: 535 ft. – total elevation gain approximately 841 ft.

Route type: Circuit

Map: Hudson Palisades Trails Map #109 – Web Map – Palisades Interstate Park

Trailhead parking: State Line Lookout, Closter, NJ 07624

Parking Fees: Weekend Rates: $2.50/hr. – Weekday Rates: $1.50/hr. (First hour is free at State Line Lookout)

Restrooms on site

Please note: Don’t attempt this hike if it’s wet or icy outside.

Details on Giant Stairs hikes via different routes:

Overview:

This hike explores the northern end of the New Jersey Section of Palisades Interstate Park. It incorporates a number of scenic features and, for nearly the entire distance, you are far away from the noise of the Parkway. It is also the most difficult hike in the park, as it involves not only steep climbs and descents on uneven rock steps, but also nearly a mile of walking near the shore of the river on jumbled rocks.

The image below shows the jumbled rocks and boulders beneath the State Line Lookout that comprises the “Giant Stairs.”

Giant Stairs – aerial view

Trails Overview:

This hike incorporates segments of the Long Path, the Shore Trail and an abandoned section of Old Route 9W. The marked trails are well blazed and for the most part, easy to follow. The mile long section of jumbled rocks and boulders along the Shore Trail referred to as “The Giant Stairs,” has some fresh white blazes, making it much easier to follow than the previous times that I visited. The key is to keep an eye out for the next white blaze before you move forward.

Hike Overview:

I have done this hike on two separate occasions, using slightly different routes in July of 2016 and 2017. The rocks can get awfully hot during the summer months and in one area you are totally exposed to the elements. This time I waited for a little cooler weather at the tail end of the Fall foliage season. Even though we got an early start (8am), it wasn’t long until we encountered hordes of people along the Giant Stairs section. For the most part, almost everyone that we encountered were going in the opposite direction. My reasoning for doing this hike counterclockwise is that when the Giant Stairs section is completed, Peanut Leap Falls and the ruins of an Italian Garden makes for a good spot to relax before tackling the steep climb back up. I have yet to see Peanut Leap Falls actually flowing, but there are numerous places to sit in that area for a well needed rest.

This hike was done counterclockwise from the State Line Lookout.

Giant Stairs Loop – Palisades Interstate Park

As the elevation graph indicates, there is a steep descent to river level at the beginning of the hike and a steep climb back up to the top of the cliffs near the end of the hike.

elevation profile – Giant Stairs Loop

The Hike:

This hike begins in the parking area at the State Line Lookout. Proceed ahead towards the Palisades cliffs to get some immediate views up and down the Hudson River. If you get lucky, you may see a Peregrine Falcon or two perched on the cliff. When you are done checking out the views, head south along the abandoned section of Old Route 9W, with the rock wall on your left. In about 600 feet, the old section of Route 9W reaches the entrance road to the State Line Lookout. Proceed carefully ahead along the shoulder of the road. In about another 400 yards, turn left on the aqua-blazed Long Path, which heads south, parallel to the cliffs.

State Line Lookout

State Line Lookout entrance road

Turn left on the Long Path

Long Path – Palisades Interstate Park

There is a good viewpoint over the river just to the left of the trail (use caution here, as there is a steep dropoff). Just beyond, the trail starts a steep descent on rock steps, built by the park in the early years of the twentieth century. Use extreme caution when descending these steps, as they are somewhat uneven. The steps can be particularly hazardous when wet or covered with leaves.

Long Path – Palisades Interstate Park

After crossing a small stream on a wooden footbridge, you’ll reach a trail junction. The Long Path turns right, but you should bear left, now following the blue/white-blazed Forest View Trail. A sign indicates that it is 0.3 mile from this point to the Shore Trail, but the distance will probably seem much longer. The steep descent continues, first on more rock steps, then on switchbacks, some of which are well graded, but others are rocky and uneven.

Long Path – Palisades Interstate Park

Forest View Trail – Palisades Interstate Park

You’ll finally reach the bottom of the descent, marked by a large boulder. Here you should turn left and head north on the white-blazed Shore Trail. Soon, you’ll emerge onto an open area covered with vines.

End of Forest View Trail – Palisades Interstate Park

Shore Trail – Palisades Interstate Park

A short distance beyond, you’ll reach a field of jumbled boulders. This is the beginning of the Giant Stairs, the most challenging section of the hike. After taking in the panoramic view to the north along the river and over the striking Palisades cliffs, bear left and follow the white blazes as they begin to climb over the rocks, paying careful attention to the white paint blazes.

Shore Trail – Palisades Interstate Park

Start of Giant Stairs – Palisades Interstate Park

Giant Stairs – Palisades Interstate Park

For the next half mile, the trail follows a rocky path about 100 vertical feet above the river. You’ll have to use care in deciding where to take each step. In about half an hour, the trail emerges onto a huge talus field, made up of large boulders that have fallen down from the cliffs above. This is the site of the massive rockslide that took place at 7:28 p.m. on Saturday, May 12, 2012, in which a large section of the cliff face broke off and tumbled down to the river. There are panoramic views across the river, and the lighter-faced rock column on the cliff indicates where the rocks fell from.

Giant Stairs – Palisades Interstate Park

At the end of the talus field, the trail reenters the woods. In about ten minutes, it comes out on another talus slope and then, after briefly passing through a wooded section, it emerges onto a third talus slope, marked by a huge tree stump. Again, you’re afforded a panoramic view over the river, and you’ll want to stop to rest from this difficult section of the hike and enjoy the view.

Giant Stairs – Palisades Interstate Park

The trail now descends and eventually comes close to river level. You’ll encounter one more rocky section, but this one is much easier to negotiate. After about a mile of walking on a relatively smooth footpath along the river, you’ll go through a gate in a rusted chain-link fence. A short distance beyond, you’ll reach the Peanut Leap Cascade. Adjacent to this waterfall, which is truly spectacular after heavy rains, are the ruins of the Italian Garden, built about 1900 by the sculptress Mary Lawrence-Tonetti, whose family owned an estate at nearby Sneden’s Landing.

Giant Stairs – Palisades Interstate Park

End of the Giant Stairs – Palisades Interstate Park

NY/NJ border fence – Shore Trail

Shore Trail – Palisades Interstate Park

A very dry Peanut Leap Cascade

Italian Garden ruins – Palisades Interstate Park

View from Italian Garden ruins – Palisades Interstate Park

From river level back to the top of the cliffs, you will gain about 500 feet in elevation. Rest up here, before you tackle the steep climb.

Shore Trail – Palisades Interstate Park

After spending some time at this interesting and beautiful spot, follow the white-blazed Shore Trail as it turns left, away from the river, and climbs on wooden steps and switchbacks. It parallels the stream leading to the waterfall for a short distance and soon ends at a junction with the aqua-blazed Long Path.

Shore Trail – Palisades Interstate Park

There are several ways that one can go here. We chose to continue straight onto the Long Path until we reached the northern end of the abandoned section of Route 9W.

Terminus of Shore Trail – Palisades Interstate Park

Long Path – Palisades Interstate Park

Turn left onto Old Route 9W (a wide concrete road), and follow it back to the State Line Lookout, where the hike began.

Abandoned section of Route 9W

Review:

I’ve done this hike now three separate times with slight variations of the route. Each time it has been challenging, but lots of fun. This is a very popular hike and is best done on a weekday to avoid the crowds.

Pros:

Giant Stairs rock scramble, Hudson River views, Palisades cliffs, ruins, waterfall.

Cons:

A lot of Poison Ivy along the Shore Trail.

Take a hike!

Giant Stairs Loop – Palisades Interstate Park

Sources:

High View Tunnel – Wurtsboro Ridge State Forest

Posted on October 23, 2022

October 22, 2022 – Wurtsboro, NY

Difficulty: Easy

Length: Approximately 2 miles

Max elevation: 810 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 150 ft.

Route type: Out and back

Free map: Shawangunk Ridge Trail Map – 2016

Buy Map (Paper & Avenza): Shawangunk Trails Map 106B – 2019

Trailhead parking: 26 VFW Road, Wurtsboro, NY 12790

Dirt parking area for about 10 cars – No restrooms on site

Please Note: It is not safe to enter this tunnel because it has not been maintained since the 1950’s, it is flooded and there is the danger of falling debris along with other hazards when exploring abandoned places. It is also rumored that people have drowned in the tunnel.

Overview:

The High View Tunnel, also known as the Shawangunk Tunnel or the Bloomingburg Tunnel, was completed in 1871 through the Shawangunk Mountains by the New York and Oswego Midland Railroad (NY&OM), predecessor of the New York, Ontario & Western Railway (NYO&W or O&W). At 3,855-foot in length, High View is the longest among the four tunnels on the O&W.

High View Tunnel

Although the tunnel is located on property owned by the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, the High View Tunnel is adjacent to Wurtsboro Ridge State Forest where there is trailhead parking for the Long Path/SRT on VFW Road. Since the the hike begins and ends in Wurtsboro Ridge State Forest, I named it as part of the state forest in order to make it easier to identify its location.

History:

The New York, Ontario & Western Railway (O&W, NYO&W) was a regional railroad that connected Oswego, New York to Weehawken Terminal in New Jersey. At the end of the 19th century, the O&W Railway was the best way for New York City passengers to make their way to the Catskill Mountains. It is the first notable railroad in America to have its mainline entirely abandoned.

New York, Ontario and Western Railroad

In 1868, the New York and Oswego Midland Railroad (Midland), predecessor to the O&W, began building its mainline from Weehawken, New Jersey to Oswego, New York. The route selected would pass through the Shawangunk Ridge via a tunnel between Wurtsboro on the west and Bloomingburg on the east. Construction began in 1868 at both ends of the tunnel. Three years later, Midland completed the High View Tunnel after excavating through 3855 feet of Shawangunk Grit. When the workers finally met in the middle, to everyone’s delight they were only a few feet apart.

The High View Tunnel operated from 1871 until 1957 but not without its problems, mainly water and falling rock. While Shawangunk Grit is impervious to water, the open seams running through the grit are perfect waterways. Once abandoned, the tunnel continued to take on water with no one taking steps to dewater the tunnel. Meanwhile, NYS Route 17 was built over the High View Tunnel and, at one point, future plans called for a ramp directly over the North Portal. Those plans have since been scrapped.

In 1980, possibly in response to rumors of a drowning in the High View Tunnel, an attempt was made to seal the North Portal. Despite efforts, the portal wasn’t completely sealed and the resulting large debris pile in the front of the North Portal allowed even more water to collect in the tunnel (the crest of the tunnel is near the South Portal which is private property). An early 1970’s view of the masonry North Portal shows already some deterioration had taken place. This gives a good indication that perhaps as much as twenty feet was collapsed and excavated in the attempt to shut off access.

High View Tunnel – 1970’s

The New York Department of Transportation grew concerned that the higher water levels (estimated at 13 feet in some places) could weaken the tunnel, posing a threat to Route 17 (I-86). The DOT cleared the debris from the North Portal in 2006, thereby reducing the water level to about 3 feet nearest the North Portal.

Hike Overview:

I visited the High View Tunnel in 2016 and decided to pay it a return visit. Not much has changed since then, but the abandoned railbed seems to have taken on more water or at least it appeared that way. On this visit, we couldn’t get as close to the tunnel as last time due to the amount of water near the entrance of the north portal of the tunnel. So much water that Gaia GPS has it listed as “High View Tunnel Outflow Stream” on its online maps. Although I had on waterproof boots, the water was much deeper than the top of my boots. Also the ground was muddy enough in places to suck the boots right off your feet if you stepped in the wrong spot.

High View Tunnel

The hike begins at VFW Post 4947 which is the former Mamakating Depot for O&W Main Line and is on the same grade as the High View Tunnel. Long before O&W trains stopped running in 1957, the company had closed the Mamakating Depot. The building was in disrepair when VFW Post 4947 purchased it for their base of operations.

Mamakating Depot

VFW Post 4947

There is parking along the left side of the building as you drive in. DO NOT block the gate or the entrance road. There is a scrap yard near the entrance to VFW Road that has several barking dogs of various sizes. We heard them barking as we began the hike, and as we were returning to the parking area, two medium sized dogs approached us barking, but retreated once I yelled at them. Just a heads up to be vigilant if you decide to visit.

This is a relatively easy and straightforward out and back hike. If you so choose, you can walk back down VFW Road, bypassing the trail and cross the road to reach the abandoned railbed. I chose to use the SRT/Long Path south to reach the road and a short section of the railbed between the VFW and the road to return to the parking area, to eliminate the road walk.

High View Tunnel

As you can see from the elevation graph, it’s a relatively level hike.

elevation profile – High View Tunnel

The Hike:

Walk to the back of the parking area towards the gate. beyond the gate is the continuation of the abandoned railbed heading north. To the right of that concrete block are three white blazes on a tree. That is the start of the Connector Trail that leads to the co-aligned Long Path/SRT. The White Trail climbs for about 400 feet until its terminus at a T-intersection with the Shawangunk Ridge Trail (SRT). Turn right at the junction and follow the SRT south as it weaves its way through the woods.

VFW Road trailhead parking

White Connector Trail – Wurtsboro Ridge State Forest

Long Path/SRT – Wurtsboro Ridge State Forest

In about 350 yards, the SRT reaches Sullivan County Route 171 (Mamakating Road). Here the Long Path/SRT turns right and begins a road walk, but you should carefully cross the road. This is a hairpin curve where cars speed by with a limited sight distance so be alert when crossing here.

Long Path/SRT – Wurtsboro Ridge State Forest

Directly across the road is a bridge abutment that supported the railroad bridge. To the left of the abutment is an access road that leads to the abandoned railbed. Follow the road up the hill and turn left, heading south.

Sullivan County Route 171 – Mamakating Road

Access Road to abandoned railbed

Abandoned railbed – High View Tunnel

Once on the railbed, it’s about a 0.7-mile, mostly flat walk to the north portal of the High View Tunnel.

Abandoned railbed – High View Tunnel

In another 350 yards or so, on the left, there is a concrete telephone booth. The C.F. Massey Company, based in Chicago, manufactured these enclosures for any number of purposes, such as telephone booths, outhouses, watch shanties, and oil storage sheds.

Abandoned railbed – concrete telephone booth

Abandoned railbed – High View Tunnel

Not far from the concrete telephone booth, there are still some concrete footings that supported the signal towers.

Abandoned railbed – concrete footing

A short distance later, as the railbed approaches a rock cut, there are some leaning trees and caution is advised when walking underneath them.

Abandoned railbed – High View Tunnel

After passing through the rock cut, you will arrive at the High View Tunnel Outflow Stream. This stream flows out of the north portal and courses downhill to your right. Do your best to keep your feet dry in this area.

High View Tunnel Outflow Stream

On the right side of the railbed is an old explosives magazine, used for the “day storage” of explosives. The robust stone walls, inward opening steel door, and flimsy wood roof were designed to contain any accidental blast and direct it skyward. It was used during the tunnel’s construction, and possibly in later years to help clear the frequent cave-ins that occurred.

Abandoned railbed – explosives magazine

The water gets deeper and the grip of the mud gets stronger as you near the tunnel.

Abandoned railbed – High View Tunnel

This is about as far as we got on this day. I didn’t want to risk losing a boot or getting water over the top of my boots.

Abandoned railbed – High View Tunnel

The image below is from 2016. It was taken from about the same spot as the image above. Notice the row of rocks in the foreground lined across the railbed. These same rocks are now underwater in the image above in 2022.

Abandoned railbed – High View Tunnel

High View Tunnel

Since we didn’t get as close as I would have liked, I included an image from 2016 of the interior of the tunnel.

High View Tunnel – 2016

From here it’s just a matter of retracing your steps back to CR 171 (Mamakating Road) and carefully crossing the road. Instead of taking the Long Path/SRT, we found the abandoned railbed on the north side of the road and followed that back past the VFW, to the parking area, where the hike began.

Access Road to abandoned railbed

Abandoned railbed on north side of CR 171 (Mamakating Road)

VFW Post 4947

Review:

A short hike, but it could be made longer by taking the abandoned railbed north from the VFW or for a more challenging hike, you can take the SRT/Long Path north in Wurtsboro Ridge State Forest. The tunnel itself makes for a good point of interest as well as the remnants of the railroad that once passed through here.

Pros:

High View Tunnel, railroad ruins, secluded area.

Cons:

A lot of water near the north portal of the tunnel.

Take a hike!

High View Tunnel – Wurtsboro Ridge State Forest

Sources:

Shawangunk Ridge State Forest Loop from Cox Road Trailhead

Posted on October 19, 2022

October 15, 2022 – Pine Bush, NY

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 3.5 miles

Max elevation: 1,791 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 550 ft.

Route type: Circuit

Free map: Shawangunk Ridge State Forest Trail Map – 2021

Free map: Shawangunk Ridge Trail Map – 2016

Buy Map (Paper & Avenza): Shawangunk Trails Map 106B – 2019

Trailhead parking: Cox Road Parking Area – 336 Cox Rd, Pine Bush, NY 12566

Gravel parking lot for about 15 cars – No restrooms on site

Shawangunk Ridge State Forest is a Carry-in/Carry-out area

Overview:

The 1,411-acre Shawangunk Ridge State Forest is part of an interconnected and preserved corridor of land that stretches south from Ulster County, through Sullivan County and into Orange County, NY. It is part of the southern section of the Shawangunk Mountain range known as the Shawangunk Ridge.

Shawangunk Ridge State Forest as viewed from Bear Hill Nature Preserve – October 2016

Pronounced shuh-WAN-gunk, or SHON-gum by locals, “The Gunks” are known widely for their dramatic cliffs and landscapes, dwarf pine barren forests, “ice caves”, and classic rock climbing.

Bear Hill Nature Preserve as viewed from Shawangunk Ridge State Forest

Long Path/Shawangunk Ridge Trail – Shawangunk Ridge State Forest

Red Trail – Shawangunk Ridge State Forest

History:

In the year 2000, the Shawangunk Ridge State Forest was created through a partnership between New York State, Open Space Institute (OSI), Trust for Public Land (TPL) and others.

The Open Space Institute purchased several major parcels along the Shawangunk Ridge and transferred them to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to be held and managed as state forests.

Subsequent acquisitions over the years have significantly expanded the chain of state forests, including the Shawangunk Ridge, Roosa Gap, Wurtsboro, and Huckleberry Ridge State Forests.

Trails Overview:

A 1.8-mile section of the co-aligned Shawangunk Ridge Trail and the Long Path passes through Shawangunk Ridge State Forest. To the south the trail continues on into Roosa Gap State Forest. To the north the trail continues onto private land and eventually into Minnewaska State Park to the north of Route 52.

The 1.2-mile section of the co-aligned SRT and Long Path traversed on this hike, provide spectacular views of the surrounding valley, extending all the way to the Catskills.

Long Path/Shawangunk Ridge Trail – Shawangunk Ridge State Forest

Starting in 2015, the NY-NJ Trail Conference created 4 miles of new trails in Shawangunk Ridge State Forest, connecting the Long Path (and SRT) to parking areas, making loop hikes possible.

Hike Overview:

October is leaf peeping season and The Gunks are nothing short of spectacular during that time. That is probably the busiest time of the year in that area. The more well known spots like Minnewaska State Park, including the Sam’s Point Area and the Mohonk Preserve, can get extremely crowded during that time, especially on weekends. I decided to try a less popular section of the ridge, or so I thought. We arrived at the parking area on Cox Road at 10am on a Saturday morning and the 15-car gravel lot was nearly full. By the time that we finished the hike, the lot was jammed and there was a long line of vehicles parked along the side of Cox Road. My advice is to get there early or visit on a weekday. You should also back your vehicle into one of the parking spots, making it a lot easier to exit. You’ll be glad you did.

Cox Road Parking Area – Shawangunk Ridge State Forest

While researching this hike, I couldn’t find much information online and figured that this was a lesser trafficked area and possibly a hidden gem. Even though the small lot was nearly full when we arrived (10am), I was shocked at the end of our hike when I saw how jammed the parking lot was, making it difficult to back out and leave.

I would suggest doing this hike clockwise as most of the people we encountered were going in the opposite direction. By going clockwise, it’s a shorter distance to the ridge and after reaching the highpoint, you will have almost continuous views in front of you as you descend.

This moderate loop is one of the better hikes that I have done when it comes to the all-around hiking experience. It has views and extremely scenic landscape along the ridge and just below it. It has to be experienced to be truly appreciated.

Shawangunk Ridge State Forest Loop from Cox Road Trailhead

elevation profile – Shawangunk Ridge State Forest Loop

The Hike:

From the kiosk at the parking area, head uphill on the Red Trail, which follows a woods road. Almost immediately, a wooden post marks a branch of the trail that goes to the right. This will be your return route, but for now, continue ahead on the woods road, following the red blazes.

Cox Road Parking Area – Shawangunk Ridge State Forest

Red Trail – Shawangunk Ridge State Forest

In 0.4 mile, you’ll cross a stream on large stepping stones. Soon, the Red Trail begins to climb more steeply and narrows to a footpath.

Red Trail – Shawangunk Ridge State Forest

After passing cliffs on the right and going through an interesting passage between rocks, you’ll reach a junction with the Long Path/Shawangunk Ridge Trail at the crest of the ridge. Turn right onto the Long Path/Shawangunk Ridge Trail, which you’ll be following for the next 1.2 miles.

Red Trail – Shawangunk Ridge State Forest

Long Path/Shawangunk Ridge Trail – Shawangunk Ridge State Forest

The ridge that you’re following was burned in a forest fire in May 2015. Low vegetation was destroyed in the fire, and many small trees were burned, but the trunks of larger trees remained unscathed. The vegetation has begun to regenerate, but many small dead trees scarred by the fire can still be seen.

Long Path/Shawangunk Ridge Trail – Shawangunk Ridge State Forest

Soon, you’ll come to a broad west-facing viewpoint from open slabs of Shawangunk conglomerate rock. The trail moves to the east side of the ridge, shifts back to the west side, then returns to the east side. You’ll notice some fascinating rock formations on the east side of the ridge, with the trail in places running near the edge of steep 30-foot-high cliffs.

Long Path/Shawangunk Ridge Trail – Shawangunk Ridge State Forest

The trail begins a gradual climb to the high point on the ridge (1,791 feet). Just beyond, there is a panoramic north-facing view over Bear Hill. The trail now begins to descend over slabs of conglomerate rock dotted with pitch pines, with views of the Catskill Mountains to the northwest. As you approach the base of the descent, there are panoramic west-facing views.

Long Path/Shawangunk Ridge Trail – Shawangunk Ridge State Forest

After pausing to admire the spectacular views, follow the trail as it bears right and heads into the woods. In a short distance, you’ll come to a junction with the northern leg of the Red Trail. Turn right, leaving the Long Path/Shawangunk Ridge Trail, and begin once again to follow the red blazes.

Turn right on Red Trail

You’ll soon emerge into an area with dramatic cliffs and overhanging rocks on the right. You’re now directly paralleling the route you followed along the open slabs of conglomerate rock, but you’re following the cliffs that support these open rock slabs. Towards the end of this section, the trail has been routed through a narrow passage, with cliffs on one side and huge boulders on the other.

Red Trail – Shawangunk Ridge State Forest

At the end of this spectacular section, the trail turns left and begins to descend. It soon joins a woods road, which it follows all the way back to a junction with the other branch of the Red Trail. Turn left at this junction and continue for a short distance to the parking area where the hike began.

Red Trail – Shawangunk Ridge State Forest

Review:

I would highly recommend this hike to all. It covers an extremely scenic area with fantastic views and massive rock formations. The trails are well marked and easy to follow. The lower areas on the Red Trail have good tree cover, but the ridge is mostly exposed. This hike is best done during the Fall foliage season for the array of colors on display, but I’m sure that it is beautiful in any season. I recommend doing the loop clockwise so the views are in front of you as you descend the ridge as opposed to them being at your back as you ascend. This appears to be a popular hiking spot so either get there early or try visiting on a weekday.

Pros:

Fantastic views along the ridge, interesting rock formations, well marked trails, scenic landscape.

Cons:

Attracts crowds, Red Trail can be a little swampy after rainfall.

Take a hike!

Shawangunk Ridge State Forest Loop from Cox Road Trailhead

Sources:

Horseshoe Mine Falls – Shawangunk Ridge State Forest

Posted on October 16, 2022

October 15, 2022 – Spring Glen, NY

Difficulty: easy

Length: Approximately 1/4 mile

Route type: out and back

Overview:

Horseshoe Mine Falls, also known as Buttermilk Falls, is a A 60 ft. tall sliding cascade that ends with a plunge over an entrance to an old mining exploratory tunnel. The tunnel is quite deep. Parking is roadside just a few hundred feet away on Lewis Road.

Worked in 1853, Horseshoe Mine was opened by a tunnel driven southwest into the mountain. The location of its entrance was decidedly at the foot of the waterfall. During its operation, the course of water was diverted away from the adit to allow a dry route for its narrow gauge railroad to enter.

Although the mine was located within close proximity to a major railroad, it was not a producer. It is likely that lead and possibly zinc were the chief metals as other lead-zinc mines exist in the general area. Very little waste rock remains on site and little else is known about the operation.

Horseshoe Mine Falls is situated just within the northwestern boundary of Shawangunk Ridge State Forest and is fed by an unnamed mountain stream that flows through the forest east to west from New York State Route 52. See orange arrow below.

Shawangunk Ridge State Forest Trail Map

How to get there:

The parking area is located about 0.4-mile past the Spring Glen Campgrounds on Lewis Road in Spring Glen, NY in Ulster County. As you drive in a northerly direction on Lewis Road, look to your right for two old stone bridge abutments with a stream flowing between them. There is pull-off parking for several cars along the road. If the flow is substantial, you should be able to hear the waterfall from the road.

Old stone bridge abutments – Lewis Road

A wide path leads up to the old O&W Railway. This old railroad right of way may one day be part of the O&W Rail Trail.

Wide path to the left of the bridge abutments – Spring Glen

Old O&W Railway – Spring Glen

Do not turn onto the abandoned railbed, instead continue straight ahead on the unmarked path that follows the unnamed tributary upstream.

Horseshoe Mine Falls Trail

From there it is a short walk to the waterfall.

Horseshoe Mine Falls

I have visited this waterfall on numerous occasions and it never gets old. Below are some images from previous visits during different seasons.

June 26, 2016

Horseshoe Mine Falls

March 5, 2017

Horseshoe Mine Falls

October 6, 2020

Horseshoe Mine Falls

This easily accessible picturesque waterfall is best viewed after a rainfall or during the Spring thaw. Since it is a short and easy walk to and from, you may want to combine this with a hike in the area, such as the Bear Hill Nature Preserve, Minnewaska State Park, Sam’s Point, or any nearby hike on the Shawangunk Ridge.

Sources:

Buttermilk Falls Mine

Bear Mountain Summit Loop

Posted on September 19, 2022

September 17, 2022 – Stony Point, NY

Re-hiked April 17, 2026

Difficulty: Easy – Moderate

Length: Approximately 2.7 miles

Max elevation: 1,289 ft. – total elevation gain approximately 494 ft.

Route type: Circuit

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

Free Bear Mountain Summit Trail Map: Bear Mountain Hikes, NY

Free Bear Mountain Summit Avenza Map: Bear Mountain Hikes, NY

Free Web Map: Bear Mountain State Park Trail Map 2019

Free Avenza App Map: Bear Mountain State Park Trail Map 2019

Trailhead parking: Perkins Memorial Drive, Stony Point, NY 10980

Paved parking lot – bathrooms on site

Park Overview:

The 5,205-acre Bear Mountain State Park is situated in rugged mountains rising from the west bank of the Hudson River. The Perkins Memorial Tower at the summit of Bear Mountain gives visitors spectacular views of the park, the Hudson Highlands and the rolling hills of Harriman State Park. A scenic drive to the top of the mountain, along Perkins Memorial Drive, is a very popular destination in the park for tourists and sightseers. Perkins Memorial Drive and Tower are open from April through late November, weather permitting.

The park includes Bear Mountain as well as Dunderberg Mountain and West Mountain. Fort Montgomery is adjacent to the north edge of the park while Iona Island Bird Sanctuary is on the eastern edge on the Hudson River. Bear Mountain State Park is a separate entity from the adjacent Harriman State Park which runs along the western edge of the park, but are managed as a single unit.

Bear Mountain State Park is 45 miles north of New York City in the Hudson Highlands. One of the most visited parks in the Northeast, Bear Mountain hosts more than 3 million annual visitors. Bear Mountain is accessible by car and bus and is a popular day use park. It’s sometimes too popular; the state occasionally shuts the park down to control crowds during the warmer months.

History:

During the American Revolution, when control of the Hudson River was viewed by the British as essential to dominating the American territories, the area that was to become the park saw several significant military engagements. In 1777 British troops routed Patriots at Fort Montgomery. Anthony Wayne’s attack of the British fort at Stony Point moved colonial troops to the west of Bear Mountain.

In 1908, the State of New York announced plans to relocate Sing Sing Prison to Bear Mountain. Work was begun in the area near Highland Lake (renamed Hessian Lake) and in January 1909, the state purchased the 740-acre Bear Mountain tract. Conservationists inspired by the work of the Palisades Interstate Park Commission lobbied successfully for the creation of the Highlands of the Hudson Forest Preserve, stopping the prison from being built.

Mary Averell Harriman, whose husband, Union Pacific Railroad president E. H. Harriman died in September of that year, offered the state another 10,000 acres and one million dollars toward the creation of a state park. George W. Perkins, with whom she had been working, raised another $1.5 million from a dozen wealthy contributors including John D. Rockefeller and J.P. Morgan.

Bear Mountain-Harriman State Park became a reality the following year when the prison was demolished and a dock built for steamboat excursion traffic. The park opened in June 1913. Steamboats alone brought more than 22,000 passengers to the park that year. Camping at Hessian Lake (and later at Lake Stahahe) was immensely popular; the average stay was eight days and was a favorite for Boy Scouts. By 1914 it was estimated that more than a million people a year were coming to the park.

In the 1930’s the federal government under Franklin D. Roosevelt was developing plans to preserve the environment as part of the Depression-era public works programs; the Civil Works Administration and the Works Progress Administration spent five years on projects at the park. Pump houses, reservoirs, sewer systems, vacation lodges, bathrooms, homes for park staff, storage buildings and an administration building were all created through these programs. Both the Perkins Memorial Drive and Perkins Memorial Tower were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) between 1932 and 1934. The winding, steep drive was dynamited out of Bear Mountain by 1,500 NYS Temporary Relief Workers. Work began on November 21, 1932 and the drive and tower opened on October 31, 1934. President and Mrs. Roosevelt were among the first visitors.

Perkins Memorial Drive 1933 – Palisades Parks Conservancy

Perkins Memorial Tower was built with funds provided by the Perkins family. The tower is 65 feet high and 30’x30′ at the base. It was constructed of native stone from a quarry at the base of Bear Mountain.

Perkins Memorial Tower – Bear Mountain

Appalachian Trail~

It was in Bear Mountain State Park back in 1923 when the very first section of the Appalachian Trail was built and blazed. It officially opened on October 7, 1923 and served as a pattern for the other sections of the trail developed independently by local and regional organizations and later by the federal government. The Appalachian Trail has been re-routed numerous times on Bear Mountain since its founding in 1923 due to erosion caused from 100,000+ hikers a year.

In the fall of 2018, the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference completed the Bear Mountain Trails Project, the most ambitious rehabilitation of the Appalachian Trail (AT) ever conducted. Of the entire 2,200 miles of the AT, the section that runs through Bear Mountain State Park is the oldest and most heavily used. Over 90 years ago, it was Trail Conference volunteers who blazed this original portion of the AT and opened it to the public. By 2004, the Bear Mountain trail had become an eroded, 10-foot-wide scar.

Work on the trail included hardening the tread with 1,300 granite steps, each of which weighed between 500 and 800 pounds and needed to be moved from the bottom of Bear Mountain to the summit. The project also included constructing the first ADA-compliant section of the AT.

The first section of the Appalachian Trail relocation was opened on June 5th, 2010 (National Trails Day) and consisted of roughly 700 steps. A second section including an A.T. loop and nearly 1/2 mile of fully accessible trail on the top of Bear Mountain was officially opened on June 6th, 2011 (National Trails Day).

Trails Overview:

There are over 50 official trails covering over 235 miles, featuring a wide range of difficulties and elevation changes.

The Appalachian Trail passes through old-growth forest on its way to Perkins Memorial Tower atop Bear Mountain, with scenic overlooks and spectacular views of the Hudson River and Dunderberg, Bald, and West mountains along the way. The tower can also be reached by car, and a portion of the path at the summit is wheelchair accessible.

Bear Mountain Summit Trails

Hike Overview:

I have been at the summit of Bear Mountain more times than I can count. I have always driven to the top to enjoy the views from Perkins Tower and the viewpoint just off the parking lot where the crowds seem to gather. I had never bothered to explore the trails around the summit until last year. Dealing with some health issues, I wanted to get outdoors and enjoy some Hudson Valley views without the physical exertion required on a hike. Walking around on the summit led me to the western side of the mountain where the AT passes through as well as a couple of blue connector trails. I have since returned several times to explore a little more and decided to do a short loop hike utilizing the AT and the abandoned section of Perkins Memorial Drive to link it together.

This hike descends stone steps down to an abandoned section of Perkins Memorial Drive then climbs more stone steps as it regains the elevation lost on the way down. Along the way there are numerous views and little foot traffic. This hike is perfect for the casual hiker or those not seeking a deep woods experience. Depending on the time of day or season, you will encounter hordes of people around the vicinity of Perkins Tower. The farther you move away from that area, the less people you will encounter. We arrived at the summit around 8:30am on a Saturday Morning in late September and there were a few cars already there. By the time we returned to the parking area, around 11:15am, there were many cars, motorcycles, bikes and people milling around enjoying the scenery. My advice is to get there early before the crowds.

Bear Mountain Summit Loop

elevation profile – Bear Mountain Summit Loop

The Hike:

Across the paved loop road, with Perkins Memorial Tower on your left, there is a kiosk with a map and information on the northwest side of the summit. Just to the right of the kiosk is a fork. The right fork, blazed with the 2″x6″ white blazes of the Appalachian Trail (AT) and the red-ring-on-white blazes of the Major Welch Trail, will be your return route, but for now, continue ahead through the parking lot and if the tower is open, you may want to go inside to check it out.

kiosk – Bear Mountain summit

A.T. Trailhead – Bear Mountain summit

Bear Mountain summit

Situated 1,305 feet above the Hudson River, the 360 degree panoramic views from Perkins Tower are spectacular. On a clear day, four states and the Manhattan skyline can be seen from the tower. The observation floor has interpretive displays that describe the distant scenery. Perkins Memorial Tower was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) between 1932 and 1934. The tower was closed when we arrived at approximately 8:30am on a Saturday in September.

Perkins Memorial Tower – Bear Mountain State Park

The tower was built to honor the memory of George W. Perkins (1862-1920), the first President of the Palisades Interstate Park Commission. The tower served as a fire lookout station until the 1950’s. It is now open to the public.

Perkins Memorial Tower – Bear Mountain State Park

Continue past the tower and proceed ahead to a broad south-facing viewpoint, with Dunderberg Mountain jutting into the Hudson River to the left. Rustic benches have been placed in this area for visitors to rest and enjoy the views. Note the Manhattan skyline visible in the distance.

rustic bench – Bear Mountain summit

NYC skyline – Bear Mountain summit

Looking south over the Hudson River from Bear Mountain at 8:30am.

Hudson River view – Bear Mountain summit

rustic bench – Bear Mountain summit

After enjoying the view, head back towards the tower, but bear right at a fork in the path. Directly ahead, on a rock, you’ll notice a plaque placed to commemorate the service of Joseph Bartha as Trails Chairman of the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference from 1940 to 1955.

Joseph Bartha Plaque – Bear Mountain Summit

Bear right at the plaque and descend along the white-blazed Appalachian Trail. You now are following a spectacular trail section, opened in stages between 2010 and 2018, that was built over a 13-year period by professional trail builders and AmeriCorps trail crews, along with Trail Conference volunteers.

Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain Summit

In about half a mile, after having descended nearly 400 stone steps, you’ll reach a viewpoint on the right over Dunderberg Mountain to the southeast. Here, the trail bears left and levels off. It then climbs a little and crosses a stream channeled between two rock slabs.

Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain Summit

The peak on the left, rising just above the leaves is Bald Mountain. The peak just left of the notch (left of center) is The Timp and West Mountain is the long ridge on the right.

view south – Appalachian Trail

Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain

A short distance beyond, the trail descends several long flights of stone steps and crosses an abandoned section of the Perkins Memorial Drive. Here you should turn right, leaving the Appalachian Trail and head in a westerly direction along the asphalt road. You may notice some blue blazes along the way. This section of paved road connects two different sections of the AT.

Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain

Turn right at the junction

abandoned Perkins Drive – Bear Mountain

The road passes below the tall cliffs that you were just on moments earlier, then runs alongside a stone retaining wall. In about 0.3-mile, the paved road reaches a junction with the other side of the Appalachian Trail. Turn right at the junction as the AT climbs steeply up the mountain on stone steps.

abandoned Perkins Drive – Bear Mountain

Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain

Follow the white blazes as they climb the stone steps along the southwest slope of Bear Mountain. This section of trail is quite impressive. The way the stone steps snake their way up the mountain is nothing short of spectacular. The workers that built this section were craftsmen and artists.

Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain

As the trail climbs the southwestern slope of Bear Mountain, it passes several rock ledges with open views to the southwest over the rolling hills of Harriman State Park.

Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain

The AT climbs more stone steps and passes massive boulders that form a rock wall.

Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain

The AT descends stone steps, passes through an open area and soon reaches the western summit of Bear Mountain with wide-ranging views. A short distance later the A.T. emerges on a flat pockmarked rock surface with a rustic bench right in the center.

Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain

This makes for an excellent place to take a break and enjoy the view. The bulk of the elevation gain for this hike is done once you reach this spot.

Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain

When you are ready to continue, just a few feet from the bench is the start of another blue-blazed trail at a south-facing viewpoint over West Mountain. Follow the blue blazes along this short, but picturesque spur trail. You will return back to the bench when you are done.

Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain

Blue Spur Trail – Bear Mountain

Turn right and follow the blue-blazed side trail, which soon emerges on another rock outcrop, with excellent views to the west (Queensboro Lake may be seen below). This side trail follows a former route of the Major Welch Trail and was blazed by volunteers as a side trail to the A.T. to preserve the magnificent views.

Blue Spur Trail – Bear Mountain

In 500 feet, the side trail ends at a triple blaze. It looks like you could go a little farther, but we did not go much farther past the end of the trail.

Blue Spur Trail – Bear Mountain

Retrace your steps to the A.T., then turn left and proceed along the A.T. as it heads northeast on a relatively level grade. When the AT reaches a junction with yet another blue-blazed trail, continue ahead following the white blazes. The Blue Trail can be used as a bailout option if one chooses. It ends at the parking area where the hike began. It is also a beautiful section of trail.

Blue Spur Trail – Bear Mountain

Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain

This section of the A.T. features more stone steps, most of which were shaped on-site from native rock. Soon, you’ll pass two huge boulders to the right, with stone steps curving down from the end of the first boulder.

Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain

As the trail reaches the northernmost section of the summit, you can see the damage from a brush fire that occurred in mid August of 2022.

Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain

After ascending stone steps, you’ll reach a spectacular north-facing viewpoint over the Hudson River and the hills of the West Point Military Reservation, with Brooks Lake visible directly below. Ahead, you will see a stone pillar that once marked the boundary between the park and West Point.

Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain

After ascending more stone steps, there is a bench and a viewing platform. This makes for a nice spot to take a break.

Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain

The last third of a mile has been designed to be ADA compliant, thus permitting all users to enjoy a beautiful section of the A.T. Even this trail section has been skillfully designed to blend in with the surroundings.

Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain

ADA Compliant Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain

Continue following the white blazes along the well-graded gravel path which soon runs jointly with the Major Welch Trail, which comes in from the left. In a short distance, you’ll cross a gravel service road and pass a massive boulder on the left. Atop the boulder are the concrete foundations of a former fire tower (replaced in 1934 by the Perkins Memorial Tower).

ADA Compliant Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain

Just beyond, the Appalachian Trail reaches the paved loop road around the summit, near Perkins Memorial Tower, where the hike began.

ADA Compliant Appalachian Trail – Bear Mountain

Review:

A splendid hike, short but very sweet. I highly recommend this hike. It has so much to offer. Views galore, massive boulders and erratics, and the stone steps are a masterpiece. My advice is to get there early before the crowds come. By 11:15am when we were done, there were quite a few people in the area around Perkins Tower. Not as many as I have seen in days past, but enough that we didn’t stay too long after the hike. Still, a really scenic hike that is doable by most.

Pros:

Views galore, Appalachian Trail, well marked trails, scenic landscape, full and portable restrooms, paved parking lot.

Cons:

The area around Perkins Memorial Tower can get really crowded on nice days.

Take a hike!

Bear Mountain Summit Loop

Sources:

Snake Hill Loop from Crystal Lake

Posted on September 12, 2022

September 11, 2022 – Newburgh, NY

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 3.5 miles

Max elevation: 705 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 670 ft.

Route type: Circuit

Free map: Snake Hill Trail Map 2022 – Scenic Hudson

Trailhead parking: Crystal Lake, Temple Ave. – Newburgh, NY

Parking is available for about 6-8 cars – No restrooms on site

Crystal Lake and Snake Hill are Carry-in/Carry-out areas

Details on a hike to Snake Hill via different a route:

Snake Hill from San Giacomo Park

Overview:

Snake Hill is a local landmark that offers sweeping views of the Hudson River and surrounding landscape from its summit. The ridgeline of Snake Hill was privately-owned until recently when ownership was transferred to Scenic Hudson, who manages the property as an unimproved nature preserve. The Hill straddles the City of Newburgh/Town of New Windsor border and is flanked on its northwestern slope by Crystal Lake, an 8-acre pond that was once the centerpiece of a public park, and the smaller Miller’s Pond. A small Jewish cemetery resides on the western slope of the Hill. Aside from Scenic Hudson’s parcel, the ownership of these three resources is predominantly municipal.

Snake Hill rises 700 feet above the Hudson River and is the highest elevation along Newburgh’s boundary with the Town of New Windsor. Snake Hill is the dominant feature of the landscape surrounding Newburgh and New Windsor.

Snake Hill as viewed from Denning’s Point – 2022

Snake Hill as viewed from Mount Beacon – 2016

It drops off precipitously to the east, giving unobstructed views of the Hudson River, the East Hudson Highlands, the cities of Newburgh and New Windsor, Pollepel Island to the southeast, and Storm King Mountain to the south.

Blue Trail benches – Snake Hill

History:

Once named Muchattoes Hill (Much-Hattoos, Much-Hattoes), which loosely translated means bad or evil small hill. In local nomenclature the hill has long been known as Snake Hill from the abundance of rattlesnakes that inhabited it, though few have been seen there in recent years.

At the summit of Snake Hill there is a rock outcrop referred to as “Spy Rock.” According to the Historical Society of Newburgh Bay and the Highlands, “Legends say local Indians and then colonial militia used the high point to watch activity on the Hudson.”

Blue Trail benches – Snake Hill

During the American Revolution, patriots kept a signal fire in readiness atop Snake Hill to warn surrounding communities of a British invasion upriver.

Although the land didn’t face any threat of development, Scenic Hudson felt it was worth permanently protecting and the opportunity to do so arose. Scenic Hudson paid $1.06 million for 95 acres, comprising the bulk of Snake Hill, in 2004.

The trails were built from 2017-2018 (finished in spring of 2018) by Scenic Hudson and volunteers. Scenic Hudson maintains the trails, again with volunteer help.

Thanks to Reed Sparling, Writer and Scenic Hudson Historian for providing the information on its history.

Trails Overview:

There are three marked trails on the map and a paved road that cuts through the center of the property. There are also some unmarked “social” trails as well. The official trails are well marked and relatively easy to follow, although they can use an extra blaze or two at a couple of turns.

Snake Hill Trail Map – 2022

The trails are marked with Scenic Hudson round plastic discs in various colors.

Snake Hill – Scenic Hudson

The Yellow Trail, travels through the City of Newburgh property and is marked with painted rectangular blazes. The Scenic Hudson trail map only shows the spur that leads to the view.

Yellow Trail – Snake Hill

Hike Overview:

I have been seeing images posted on social media of the marvelous views from Snake Hill for a few years. Since there is extremely limited information online about the trails, and no trail map available until recently, it remained a hidden gem. Then I came across a Facebook post about Snake Hill from Scenic Hudson. I requested a trail map and they added one on their website. That made it an easy choice for a visit.

On the day that we hiked Snake Hill, it was overcast and rain was predicted. A few drops fell on us that day, but not enough to take away from the enjoyment of the hike. We drove almost one hour from the Lower Hudson Valley and it was well worth it. The allure of the wide-ranging views from Snake Hill is that I got to see a lot of the Hudson Highlands that I have previously hiked.

Panoramic view from Snake Hill

This loop hike is on the lower end of the “moderate” scale. There are certain steep areas on the Blue Trail, but for the most part, the Blue Trail climbs Snake Hill gradually. The Yellow Trail descends steeply in parts, but mostly on a paved road.

Snake Hill Loop

elevation profile – Snake Hill Loop

The Hike:

This hike begins at the Crystal Lake Trailhead where there is a small lot with room for about 5-6 vehicles. The Red Trail begins just past the split rail fence and bollards. I did not notice any red markers at the start, but they do appear a little farther in. The Red Trail runs along the eastern shore of Crystal Lake, which on the day that we visited, was covered with Blue-green algae.

Red Trail – Snake Hill

Crystal Lake

Community Garden at Crystal Lake.

Community Garden – Crystal Lake

Continue on the Red Trail and you should start seeing the plastic round markers on the trees. In about 0.3-mile, the Red Trail reaches Snake Hill Cemetery, a Jewish graveyard that dates back to the 1800’s.

Red Trail – Snake Hill

Just to the left of the cemetery on a tree, are three faded yellow blazes marking the start of the Yellow Trail. That will be your return route, but for now, continue ahead on the Red Trail. In about another 250 yards, the Red Trail ends at a junction with the Blue Trail right at the northeast end of Miller’s Pond, which is completely covered in Blue-green algae.

Snake Hill Cemetery

Red Trail – Snake Hill

Bear left on the Blue Trail which travels on a woods road alongside Miller’s Pond which is visible through the trees on the right.

Turn left on Blue Trail

In about 100 yards or so, the Blue Trail turns left, leaving the woods road. This turn is easy to miss. We walked right by it and had to back track. The Blue Trail now begins to ascend Snake Hill on switchbacks, passing an assortment of interesting looking boulders along the way.

Blue Trail – Snake Hill

In about a mile from the start of the Blue Trail, it turns left on a paved access road for about 60 feet, then turns right on a footpath, leaving the road.

Turn left on paved road

Blue Trail – Snake Hill

The Blue Trail climbs to the southeast edge of the ridge, just below the summit. Here the Blue Trail turns left, but you should turn right leaving the Blue Trail and follow the White Trail for about 300 yards to a southeast-facing viewpoint.

Blue Trail – Snake Hill

Turn right on White Trail

White Trail – Snake Hill

View southeast from White Trail – Snake Hill

From this spot you can see Breakneck Ridge (left) and Storm King Mountain (right) which form the northern gateway to the Hudson Highlands. Sugarloaf Mountain is just to the left of Breakneck with Pollepel Island and Bannerman Castle just in front of it in the Hudson River.

View southeast from White Trail – Snake Hill

Looking directly across the Hudson River, the two high points are North Beacon Mountain (1,526 ft.) with its communications towers and South Beacon Mountain (1,611 ft.) with its fire tower. The long knobby ridge to the right is Scofield Ridge. On the eastern shore of the Hudson River is Denning’s Point.

View east from White Trail – Snake Hill

When you are done enjoying the view, retrace your steps uphill back to the Blue Trail. Just to the right there is a rock outcrop with similar views as those on the White Trail.

End of White Trail – Snake Hill

Blue Trail – Snake Hill

View southeast – Blue Trail – Snake Hill

Continue North on the Blue Trail for about another 415 feet to its terminus at a pair of benches placed upon a large rock outcrop. This makes for a great place to relax and take in the majestic view.

Blue Trail – Snake Hill

Blue Trail benches – Snake Hill

When you are ready to continue, walk a short distance on an unmarked footpath directly behind the benches that lead to the paved access road. Turn right on the access road and continue north.

Paved road – Snake Hill

After the road passes a communications tower, it is no longer paved.

Access road – Snake Hill

Soon, the road comes to a gate with another communication tower just beyond on the left. You are now leaving Scenic Hudson property and entering property owned by the City of Newburgh. Proceed downhill on the paved road past the gate for about 400 feet.

Access road – Snake Hill

Look for a wide footpath on the right, just past telephone pole #38 (telephone pole #37 is directly across from the trail) that leads uphill. Even though you may not see any blazes, this is the route of the Yellow Trail that is shown on the trail map. Follow this trail for about 360 feet to another viewpoint.

Yellow Trail – Snake Hill

Yellow Trail viewpoint – Snake Hill

Here the panorama is more extensive, with views north as well as south. The Beacon waterfront and the East Hudson Highlands can be seen across the river. The historic architecture of Newburgh is visible down below to the north with the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge just beyond.

Yellow Trail viewpoint – Snake Hill

View south from the Yellow Trail.

Yellow Trail viewpoint – Snake Hill

When you are ready to continue, retrace your steps back to the paved access road and turn right. You may start to see painted yellow blazes on the trees. This section of the Yellow Trail is shown as an access road on the trail map. Follow the road steeply downhill for about 0.36-mile. The Yellow Trail makes a sharp left turn on an old woods road that descends gradually. This section of the Yellow Trail is not shown on the trail map. There may not be any markers indicating this turn (I don’t remember seeing any), but the woods road is easily discernible.

Yellow Trail – Snake Hill

Follow the woods road (Yellow Trail) for about 250 yards to its terminus at the Snake Hill Cemetery. Turn right on the Red Trail and retrace your steps back to the parking area at Crystal Lake, where the hike began.

Yellow Trail – Snake Hill

Red Trail – Snake Hill

Crystal Lake Trailhead – Snake Hill

Review:

A really nice hike that leads to some of the best views in the Hudson Valley. The trails are well marked and easy to follow. Only saw one person throughout the entire hike on the day that we visited. The only thing negative that can be said, is that the area around Crystal Lake is a little run-down and I noticed what appeared to be a homeless encampment in the woods just off the Red Trail. I wouldn’t leave anything of value in the vehicle or in plain sight. This is an area that one should probably not hike alone. Other than that, a hike worth doing just for the views.

Pros:

Gorgeous Hudson River Valley views, well marked trails, not much foot traffic.

Cons:

Trailhead is in an industrial area and appears a little sketchy.

Take a hike!

Snake Hill Loop

Sources:

Long Path to Gurnee Park from South Mountain Park Trailhead

Posted on September 9, 2022

September‎ ‎5, 2022 – New City, NY

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 4.5 miles

Max elevation: 774 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 670 ft.

Route type: Out and back

Buy Map (Paper & Avenza): Hudson Palisades Trails Map #112 (2018)

Free map: South Mountain County Park Trail Map

Trailhead parking: County Route 33, New City, NY 10956

Parking is available for about 20 cars – No restrooms on site

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

Here are some hikes that are on the same ridge as this one:

Park Overview:

This mountainous ridge within the 239-acre South Mountain County Park is part of the Palisades escarpment, which ends at NY 45 in Mount Ivy. It borders High Tor State Park to the east and Gurnee County Park to the west. From Central Highway (County Route 33), South Mountain County Park runs along the ridge westward for almost two miles to Gurnee County Park. It has several scenic views overlooking Haverstraw and the Hudson River, Mt. Ivy and Thiells, Clarkstown and Orangetown. It is covered with a mature stand of hardwood trees and in season there are blueberries, wild grapes and raspberries.

South Mountain County Park

The 23-acre Gurnee County Park and Amphitheatre is an old quarry arena, having a 40 to 80 foot escarpment as a backdrop. The grounds are hard packed with traprock, and partly covered with brush and small trees. It is at this point that the northern portions of Triassic rock of the Palisades formations dip into the earth, not to reoccur.

Gurnee County Park and Amphitheater

The western end of this ridge is known as South Mountain and the southeastern peak on the Hudson is known as Hook Mountain. The Long Path Hiking Trail follows along the entire length of the Palisades Ridge.

History:

The Palisades were mined for gravel and building materials through the 1890’s, until the two states formed the Palisades Interstate Park Commission (PIPC) in 1900 for the purposes of preserving the cliffs. Since that time, significant land donations have been made. The PIPC operates the Palisades Interstate Park in New Jersey and the State Parks and Historic Sites in New York’s Palisades Region.

The mountain is noted more for the road by the same name that runs along its base and the people who resided off it in Clarkstown. Maxwell Anderson, famous playwright, made the eastern end famous in his play, “High Tor.” An air beacon marked this high point but was constantly vandalized before it was finally removed. Prior to its purchase, the crest of the mountain was approved for the construction of apartment houses. With the aid of federal funds and gifts of adjoining land, this section was purchased in 1975-76. A large tract to the west in the Town of Ramapo was obtained by tax delinquency extending the park from Central Highway to Route 45.

Trails Overview:

Extending 358 miles from the 175th Street Subway Station in New York City to John Boyd Thacher State Park near Albany, NY, the Long Path Trail is a thread connecting many of New York’s parks, preserves, and state forest land. Throughout most of its length, whether on or off the road, the Long Path is indicated by a 2-by-4-inch aqua blaze. At times you may see an official NY-NJ Trail Conference round trail marker. The distinctive aqua (sometimes referred to, incorrectly, in some guidebooks as teal) indicates the Long Path, and only the Long Path.

Long Path – South Mountain County Park

The Long Path enters New York State in Rockland County on the western side of the Hudson River, still following along the Palisades. The trail travels through Tallman Mountain State Park, Blauvelt State Park, Hook Mountain State Park, Rockland Lake State Park and then High Tor State Park, where the Long Path turns west away from the Hudson River to enter South Mountain County Park before it reaches Harriman State Park. It is in Harriman State Park where the Long Path crosses the iconic Appalachian Trail.

The Long Path is the only official trail in South Mountain County Park and Gurnee Park and Amphitheater, but there are various unmarked trails/woods roads along the narrow ridge that can be explored as well. The Long Path is well marked and relatively easy to follow. It could use an extra blaze here or there, but throughout most of its run through the two parks, the trail is obvious and well trodden. The Long Path is maintained by volunteers and member groups of the NY-NJ Trail Conference.

Hike Overview:

With rain in the forecast, there was a window of several hours predicted of dry weather on this Labor Day Monday, I wanted to keep the travel to a minimum. There was light rain the night before and the ground was slightly wet, but it was supposed to resume raining by late morning. I hiked this area in 2018, beginning from Gurnee County Park and wanted to revisit it. A couple of weeks prior, I parked at the same trailhead and took the Long Path in the opposite direction to High Tor and back.

This moderate out and back hike was more rugged than I remembered. It has a lot of ups and downs and it’s quite rocky in some areas. Proper hiking boots with some ankle protection as well as hiking poles are recommended.

This is a straightforward out and back hike that is entirely on the Long Path from County Route 33 to NY-45 and back. We hiked to the old quarry arena in Gurnee County Park, but you can turn back at any time or even extend the hike if you so desire.

Long Path to Gurnee Park from South Mountain Park Trailhead

As shown on the elevation profile below, there are continuous ups and downs along the ridge of South Mountain.

elevation profile – South Mountain

The Hike:

Carefully cross the road, heading in a westerly direction into South Mountain County Park. Just past the gate is an unmarked woods road which will be your return route, but for now veer right and follow the aqua blazes as they immediately start to climb on a rocky footpath. The trail snakes through the woods along undulating terrain.

South Mountain County Park

Long Path – South Mountain County Park

In about a 1/4-mile, the Long Path joins a woods road and immediately leaves again to the right, continuing on a footpath, soon descending and climbing again.

Long Path – South Mountain County Park

In about a mile from the start of the hike, the Long Path passes a southwest-facing viewpoint. The trail continues to climb and descend repeatedly as it heads west along the ridge.

Long Path – South Mountain County Park

In approximately 1.5 miles from the start, the Long Path enters Gurnee County Park. There is no sign or boundary marker indicating when you leave or enter either park.

Long Path – Gurnee County Park

A short distance later, the trail begins to descend and comes out to a clearing with a north-facing viewpoint from a rock ledge. Care should be taken around the proximity of the cliff’s edge as there is a lot of loose rock with a steep drop off.

Long Path – Gurnee County Park

To the north and northwest are the rolling hills of Harriman State Park. To the northeast is Bear Mountain State Park.

Long Path – Gurnee County Park

Down below is the quarry arena or “amphitheater” as it is better known.

Long Path – Gurnee County Park

Looking northeast towards Bear Mountain State Park and the Hudson Highlands.

Long Path – Gurnee County Park

Continue on the Long Path as it descends toward NY-45 and the main entrance of Gurnee County Park. Along the way, the trail passes another similar viewpoint, then briefly skirts a chain link fence alongside private property.

Long Path – Gurnee County Park

A short distance later, the Long Path emerges from the woods into the parking lot for Gurnee County Park. This is the northernmost point of the Hudson River Palisades as it dips right into the ground. Here, the Long Path turns left and begins a road walk on its way towards Harriman State Park. You should turn right, walk through the parking lot and past the gate at the east end of the parking lot.

Long Path – Gurnee County Park

Proceed ahead on the gravel road until you enter the Amphitheater. The old quarry arena is quite impressive with its 80-foot cliffs as a backdrop.

Gurnee County Park and Amphitheater

When you are ready to continue, retrace your steps back through the parking lot and turn left on the Long Path. You will now be retracing your steps through Gurnee and South Mountain County Parks.

Long Path – Gurnee County Park

On the way back, I stopped dead in my tracks when I spotted a bear right on the trail about 50-60 yards ahead. It was looking right at me, but I wanted to capture an image. Afterwards, I yelled “get out of here!” but it just stood there staring at me. Upon closer inspection, it turned out to be a dog and the two humans it was with were unseen behind a tree.

Long Path – South Mountain County Park

I didn’t notice the leash and couldn’t see the humans, and in my mind it was a bear in the middle of the trail just watching me. It reminded me of the guy on the bike 2 weeks prior yelling “bear!” repeatedly near High Tor, just east of here.

Long Path – South Mountain County Park

In about 1.25 miles from Gurnee County Park, the Long Path reaches a junction with a woods road with a communication tower nearby. Veer right on the unmarked road, leaving the Long Path. The woods road is a much gentler route that bypasses a lot of the more rugged and rocky areas that you encountered at the beginning of the hike. Along the way, the Long Path is visible just to the left and joins the woods road briefly before departing to the left. Continue to follow the unmarked woods road for about 0.7 mile, back to the parking area, where the hike began.

woods road – South Mountain County Park

South Mountain County Park Trailhead

Review:

A nice hike through an area that doesn’t get much foot traffic. There is some road noise that can be heard throughout the hike, but that is to be expected as the narrow ridge is surrounded by public roads. The views are not as nice as those of High Tor or Little Tor, but the scenic landscape and rugged nature of the trail, makes for a nice enough backdrop, making the hike enjoyable.

Pros:

Long Path, Amphitheater, scenic landscape, decent views, well marked trails, not much foot traffic, no litter (please keep it that way).

Cons:

Some road noise can be heard.

Take a hike!

Long Path – South Mountain County Park

Sources:

High Tor State Park

Posted on August 22, 2022

August 21, 2022 – New City, NY

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 5.3 miles

Max elevation: 832 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 700 ft.

Route type: Out and back

Buy Map (Paper & Avenza): Hudson Palisades Trails Map #112 (2018)

Free map: High Tor State Park Trail Map (2015)

Trailhead parking: County Route 33, New City, NY 10956

Parking is available for about 20 cars – No restrooms on site

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

Park Overview:

High Tor State Park is a 691-acre state park on the north edge of the Town of Clarkstown in Rockland County, NY. The park is located on South Mountain, which has two peaks, High Tor and Little Tor. Its highest peak, High Tor, sits at an elevation of 832 feet above sea level and Little Tor at 620 feet. High Tor is the highest point on the entire Hudson River Palisades. High Tor State Park has a swimming pool, a large picnic area, and hiking trails, most notably a 3.5 mile stretch of the Long Path and several short spur trails. Hikers are rewarded with some of the most outstanding views in the lower Hudson Valley from the summits of High Tor and Little Tor.

View northeast – High Tor summit

History:

The vertical, striated appearance of the Palisades inspired people to name them. To the native Lenape, they were “Wee-Awk-En,” the rocks that look like trees. When explorer Giovanni da Verrazano sailed past the ridge in 1524, he thought it resembled a “fence of stakes,” or in military parlance a stockade (or palisade) built for defensive purposes. That’s what it’s called on the first map of the New World, printed 17 years later. The definition of tor is: a high craggy hill.

Like Tallman or Hook Mountain, this chunk of South Mountain was, by virtue of its trap rock composition, faced with the threat of destruction by quarrying. On numerous occasions, quarry operators sought to buy the property from its owner, Elmer Van Orden. While Van Orden always refused to sell, his death in 1942 revived fears that High Tor might end up defaced by quarrying. One of Rockland County’s most beautiful sites, it had inspired countless poets, artists, and even playwrights. Among them Maxwell Anderson, whose well-known 1937 play, High Tor, is the basis of a 1956 movie with Bing Cosby and Julie Andrews.

High Tor – courtesy of Historical Society of Rockland County

After Van Orden’s death, the Palisades Interstate Parks Commission immediately sought to acquire the property. A campaign led by the Hudson River Conservation Society and the Rockland County Conservation Association, and supported by dozens of groups and individuals, raised sufficient funds to purchase the property, which was transferred to the Commission in April, 1943. At the same time, Archer Huntington decided to donate his own 470-acre estate, which included Little Tor.

Trails Overview:

The park is traversed by a 3.5-mile section of the Long Path. In addition, a woods road marked with white blazes, leads north, crossing the Long Path along the ridge and continues north to the top of the promontory known as Little Tor. High and Little Tor comprise the major part of South Mountain, which is the northern boundary of the Palisades.

Long Path – High Tor State Park

Little Tor Spur Trail – High Tor State Park

This is a straightforward out-and-back hike that is easy to follow. The first half of the hike, the Hudson River will be on your left and on the return route, the river will be on your right.

Hike Overview:

I was looking to do a somewhat shaded hike with some views on a hot and humid day. This hike was perfect. The entirety of the hike, except for both summits, had plenty of tree cover. The elevation gain is quite manageable, even on the warmest of days. There are short, steep climbs to reach the summits of both Little Tor and High Tor, but the rest of the hike consists of minor ups and downs.

High Tor State Park

elevation profile – High Tor State Park

Like most hikers, I prefer loop hikes to an “out-and-back,” but sometimes you don’t have much of a choice. This was a pleasant walk through relatively quiet woods, to outstanding views over the Hudson River Valley. The occasional loud Harley from the roads below could be heard. We ran into a mountain biker (FYI – no bikes allowed on the Long Path) that kept shouting “bear!” repeatedly as he cruised by us several times. He said he saw a large bear in the area the previous week.

The Hike:

The hike begins at the trailhead for South Mountain County Park, which is on the opposite side of Central Highway (County Route 33). There is parking for about 20 vehicles. The Long Path crosses the road here connecting High Tor State Park and South Mountain County Park. There is no sign for High Tor State Park at this trailhead, but the hike begins across the road from the wooden sign for South Mountain County Park and the same side of the road as the parking area.

South Mountain County Park Trailhead

Do not cross the road, instead proceed past the gate and follow the aqua blazes of the Long Path in an easterly direction on a wide woods road. The trail climbs gradually as it winds its way along the ridge of South Mountain. In about 400 yards, there is an unmarked trail on the left that climbs steeply up to the powerlines. You may want to take this short detour for some nice Hudson River views. If you follow the unmarked trail around, it descends back down to rejoin the Long Path.

Long Path – High Tor State Park

Power Lines Trail – High Tor State Park

Power Lines View – High Tor State Park

When the Power Lines Trail descends and terminates at the Long Path, turn left and rejoin the aqua-blazed trail, continuing on the wide woods road in an easterly direction as the trail descends a little then levels off.

Turn left on Long Path

Long Path – High Tor State Park

In another 0.4 mile, the Long Path passes by two painted sign posts, where an unmarked woods road crosses. To the right, the unmarked road leads down to the public swimming pool in High Tor State Park. To the left, the woods road heads steeply down the northern face of South Mountain. Continue ahead, still following the aqua blazes.

Long Path – High Tor State Park

In just over a mile from the start of the hike, the Long Path reaches a junction with the white-blazed Little Tor Spur Trail, which begins on the left. Turn left and follow the white blazes as they climb to the summit of Little Tor, passing two rock outcrops with wide-ranging views along the way.

Turn left on Little Tor Spur Trail

Little Tor Spur Trail – High Tor State Park

The Town of Haverstraw is directly below with the Hudson River in the distance.

View north – Little Tor

View northeast – Little Tor

To the north, the hills of Harriman and Bear Mountain State Parks are visible in the distance.

View north – Little Tor

A zoomed in view of the Hudson River, Westchester County and the East Hudson Highlands beyond. The Indian Point nuclear power plant is visible just left of center in the image below.

View northeast – Little Tor

The trail climbs to another rock outcrop with more views.

Little Tor Spur – High Tor State Park

View northwest – Little Tor

The Little Tor Spur continues past the two rock outcrops and climbs steeply to the true summit of Little Tor, with 360° views of the surrounding region. This makes for a good spot to take a break and enjoy the fantastic views.

Little Tor Spur – High Tor State Park

View northwest – Little Tor

Looking west across Rockland County and into northern New Jersey.

View west – Little Tor

Looking south, the summit of High Tor is visible on the left.

View south – Little Tor

A balanced boulder sits at the summit of Little Tor.

Little Tor summit

We saw lots of birds hovering above us, including some Turkey Vultures.

Little Tor summit

When you are ready to continue, retrace your steps on the white-blazed Little Tor Spur, passing the two lower rock outcrops on the way back down to the junction with the Long Path and turn left.

Little Tor Spur – High Tor State Park

Little Tor Viewpoint – High Tor State Park

Little Tor Spur – High Tor State Park

Little Tor Viewpoint – High Tor State Park

Long Path – High Tor State Park

Continue heading in a southeasterly direction, following the aqua blazes on the wide woods road. The trail travels over undulating terrain, with some minor ups and downs.

Long Path – High Tor State Park

At one point, the Long Path leaves the woods road to avoid an eroded section, but rejoins the road a short distance later.

Long Path – High Tor State Park

The Long Path descends alongside a high craggy cliff with jumbled boulders at its base. Soon, the Long Path turns right at the base of a steep talus slope, just below the High Tor summit.

Long Path – High Tor State Park

The trail turns left and begins a steep climb of High Tor on a rocky footpath. The grade moderates, but the climb soon resumes, with several steep sections.

Long Path – High Tor State Park

In about 2.7 miles from the start of the hike, the Long Path climbs up a rock face and emerges on the 832-foot-high summit of High Tor. This marks the halfway point and turn-around spot of the hike, and makes for a good place to rest from the steep climb and enjoy the panoramic views.

Long Path – High Tor State Park

High Tor summit

Looking south towards DeForest Lake in Clarkstown, NY.

View south – High Tor summit

Northeast view over the Town of Haverstraw and the Hudson River.

View northeast – High Tor summit

If you look around carefully, you’ll see some very old graffiti carved into the craggy rock at the summit.

High Tor summit

During World War II, an aircraft beacon was located on the summit, and the anchors of the beacon are still visible today.

High Tor summit

Looking west over Rockland County and into New Jersey.

View west – High Tor summit

Looking southeast down the Hudson River. The land mass jutting into the river, across the way is Croton Point Park.

View southeast – High Tor summit

A zoomed in view of DeForest Lake with the NYC skyline visible at its southern end, far in the distance.

DeForest Lake from High Tor summit

Looking northeast up the Hudson River towards Peekskill and the southern gate of the Hudson Highlands.

View northeast – High Tor summit

Down below, the Bowline Point Thermal Power Plant’s smokestacks (center) and Haverstraw Bay.

View northeast – High Tor summit

A zoomed in view towards Peekskill. The Indian Point nuclear power plant is visible (center right), with the Hudson Highlands just beyond.

View northeast – High Tor summit

When you are done enjoying the Hudson River Valley views, retrace your steps on the Long Path, for about 2.6 miles, back to the parking area, where the hike began. Remember, the river will now be on your right as you make your way back.

Long Path – High Tor State Park

Review:

An enjoyable hike in a relatively quiet area that doesn’t get as crowded as other sections of the Hudson River Palisades. The views are outstanding and there are plenty of them. The Long Path is well marked and easy to follow. The shaded trails makes this a good hike for those hot sunny days. I highly recommend this hike, especially for those seeking a moderate hike with easy to follow trails.

Pros:

Long Path, Hudson River Valley views, the Palisades, well marked trails, no crowds, sufficient parking.

Cons:

Some road noise can be heard.

Take a hike!

High Tor State Park

Sources:

Culver Fire Tower from Stony Lake – Stokes State Forest

Posted on August 17, 2022

August 13, 2022 – Sandyston, NJ

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: Approximately 5 miles

Max elevation: 1,568 ft.– total elevation gain approximately 700 ft.

Route type: Circuit

Buy Map: Delaware Water Gap & Kittatinny Trails Map #122 – 2021

Free Map: Stokes State Forest North 2018

Trailhead parking: Stony Lake Day Use Area – Sandyston, NJ 07826

Open daily from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. – Full service restrooms on site

Entrance Fee: Free entry for the 2022 season

Overview:

Stokes State Forest is located in the Townships of Sandyston, Montague and Frankford in Sussex County, New Jersey. Stokes is comprised of 16,447 acres of mountainous woods in the Kittatinny Mountains, extending from the southern boundary of High Point State Park southwestward to the eastern boundary of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The park is operated and maintained by the New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry.

The Stony Lake Day Use Area has 45 picnic tables with adjacent grills located next to the eight-acre Stony Lake. Picnic tables and grills are available on a first come-first serve basis. A bathroom with flushing toilets is located on site. Currently, swimming is not permitted at Stony Lake, or any of the lakes in Stokes State Forest. Entrance fees are charged from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.

Stony Lake Day Use Area – Stokes State Forest

A view of the entire Stokes State Forest may be had from the Culver Fire Tower which is situated on Culver Ridge, formerly known as Normanook, located in the heart of the Kittatinny Mountains, about one mile northeast of Culver Gap. The broad Wallkill and Paulins Kill Valleys, the major part of the forested Kittatinny Mountains from the Delaware Water Gap to High Point, and stretches of Pike County, Pennsylvania and Orange County, NY, may be seen from this vantage point.

Culvers Station Lookout – Stokes State Forest

History:

Stokes State Forest was named after Edward C. Stokes, governor of New Jersey from 1905 to 1908, who personally donated the first 500 acres to the state to establish the park. The forest started with 5,932 acres after the State of New Jersey purchased another 5,432 acres in the Kittatinny Mountains. Additional acquisitions over the years by the State of New Jersey, have brought the forest to its current size of 16,447 acres.

Stokes State Forest was home to two Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camps during the 1930’s, Camp S-57 and Camp S-71. From 1933 to 1942, the CCC men of Stokes built Sunrise Mountain Road, built a lot of the forest’s extensive trail system, erected the pavilions, lean-tos, and cabins, dammed streams to create Lake Ocquittunk and Skellinger Lake, and planted hundreds of trees throughout the forest. The New Jersey School of Conservation now occupies the sites of the abandoned CCC camps. Pictured below are members of the Civilian Conservation Corps Camp S-51 in September of 1933 in Stokes State Forest.

CCC Camp S-51 – September 1933

Culvers Station Lookout was originally established in 1908 and the site was first known as the Normanook Fire Tower. In 1918, a steel tower was constructed and was staffed by a state observer. The present Aermotor 47′ tower, with a 7’x7′ cab, was erected in 1933 and sits at an elevation of approximately 1,509 feet above sea level. The lookout is located in the Appalachian Trail corridor on Culver Ridge in Stokes State Forest, Sussex County, New Jersey. Culvers Station recently received a new coat of paint in 2022. It was placed on the National Historic Lookout Register on August 1, 1992.

Culvers Station Lookout – Stokes State Forest

The Gren Anderson Shelter was built in 1958 by members of the New York Section of the Green Mountain Club in memory of their president, 1956-57, under the sponsorship of the NY– NJ Trail Conference.

Gren Anderson Shelter – Stokes State Forest

Trails Overview:

A 12.5-mile-long section of the Appalachian Trail follows the Kittatinny Mountain Ridge through Stokes State Forest. In addition to the Appalachian Trail, there are more than 63 miles of marked trails within Stokes State Forest in addition to the 17-mile-long Blue Mountain Loop Trail. Trails vary in length from one half mile to four miles, and over terrains ranging from flat lowlands to rocky mountains. Many of the trails connect, offering the hiker a variety of trips from an hour to a full day.

Trails used on this hike:

Stony Brook Trail (brown blazes – 1.6 miles) ~ Starts out heading northeast on a woods road that ascends very gradually. After about 0.8 mile, the brown-blazed trail turns right and heads in a southerly direction as it ascends more steeply on a rocky path. After 1.6 miles and an elevation gain of about 458 feet, it ends at a T-intersection with the Appalachian Trail at the forested ridge.

Appalachian Trail (white blazes – 1.1 mile) ~ Heads south along the forested ridge for just over a mile, gaining about 160 feet of elevation upon arriving at the Culvers Station Lookout Tower.

Tower Trail (green blazes – 1.1 mile) ~ Descends the ridge steeply at first, requiring the use of both hands and feet in certain places for the first several hundred yards or so. After crossing Sunrise Mountain Road, the trail descends much more gradually, but remains an ankle breaker type trail. The trail loses about 525 feet of elevation in 1.1 miles up to the junction with the Stony Brook Trail. The Tower Trail is co-aligned with the Stony Brook Trail for the last 1/2 mile along an easy walking woods road until it reaches the parking lot.

All the trails are well marked and well maintained. The only foot traffic that we saw was on the AT near the fire tower and a couple pairs of hikers on the Tower Trail.

Hike Overview:

The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference calls this “one of the most popular circuit hikes in Northwest New Jersey.” I am not sure about that as we didn’t see too many people on the trails or cars in the large parking lot. Nevertheless, it is a very nice hike in a scenic area with multiple points of interest.

Appalachian Trail, a lookout tower and panoramic views, you really can’t go wrong with this hike. Throw in lightly trafficked trails, a historic Appalachian Trail shelter, plenty of parking, full service restrooms at the trailhead and free admission and you have yourself a good day on the trails. The only negative thing that I can say is that all the streams were dry when we did this hike. Other than that it was a really good hike. Except for the area surrounding the fire tower, the trails were well shaded. The moderate elevation gain makes this a good hike for those warm summer days. In hindsight, I would have done this loop counterclockwise, ascending on the Tower Trail which is slightly more difficult and descending on the Stony Brook Trail which would have been a much easier downhill when I was a little tired.

Please Note: I wouldn’t recommend doing the Tower Trail if the ground is wet or icy. A sturdy pair of hiking boots with good ankle support is advisable for this hike.

Upon arriving at the Stony Brook Day Use Area after a 1-1/2-hour drive, we took a walk to check out Stony Lake and at 8:45am, there was no one else around. The large parking lot was nearly empty.

parking lot – Stony Lake Day Use Area

The water level was a little low on the day that we visited.

Stony Lake – Stokes State Forest

The restrooms were clean with running water and flush toilets. More than enough stalls in both the Men’s and Ladies rooms with plenty of toilet paper, full soap dispensers and air hand dryers.

restrooms – Stony Lake Day Use Area

This clockwise lollipop loop begins and ends at the Stony Lake Day Use Area. Ascending on the Stony Brook Trail and descending on the Tower Trail.

Culver Fire Tower Loop from Stony Lake

The ascent to the ridge is a longer, but more gradual climb to the fire tower. Descending on the Tower Trail is somewhat steeper on an extremely rocky trail.

elevation profile – Culver Fire Tower Loop

The Hike:

The hike begins at a gated woods road to the left of the large kiosk, just feet from the parking lot. This is the route of three separate trails – the Blue Mountain Loop Trail (blue blazes), the Tower Trail (green blazes) and the Stony Brook Trail (brown blazes). You will be following the brown-blazed Stony Brook Trail for the first 1.6 miles of the hike so pay attention to the brown blazes. Follow the woods road as it gradually heads uphill in an easterly direction. In about 530 feet, The blue-blazed Blue Mountain Loop Trail leaves to the left, but you should continue ahead, following the brown-blazed Stony Brook Trail.

Stony Lake Trailhead – Stokes State Forest

Stony Brook Trail – Stokes State Forest

In another 200 yards or so, the Stony Brook Trail turns left at a junction with the Coursen Trail which begins on the right. Then in about 460 yards from the junction with the Coursen Trail, the green-blazed Tower Trail leaves to the right. This will be your return route, but for now, continue ahead following the brown-blazed Stony Brook Trail. The trail soon narrows in places and the trail surface becomes quite rocky. In about 0.8 miles from the trailhead, the Stony Brook Trail turns sharp right, crossing a wet area and begins to ascend a little more steeply with Stony Brook (dry when we visited) to the right of the trail.

Stony Brook Trail – Stokes State Forest

When the trail reaches Sunrise Mountain Road, it turns left and runs along the paved road for about 100 feet, turns right and reenters the woods, now climbing more steeply. In about 0.2 mile, a blue-blazed side trail (scarcely blazed) appears on the left. The Gren Andersen Shelter (with water and latrine) is just a short distance down this trail. You may want to take a short detour to check out the shelter which is used by thru-hikers and backpackers.

Stony Brook Trail – Stokes State Forest

The open front lean-to was built in 1958 of oak logs cut from standing trees at the site. The Green Mountain Club contributed all other materials and labor, but upon completion the shelter would be the property and responsibility of Stokes State forest. The name “Gren Anderson Shelter” was selected as a tribute to their president who had died the year before, while still in office. A fund-raising campaign raised about 260 dollars, which proved to be an adequate sum to meet all expenses.

Gren Anderson Shelter – Stokes State Forest

When you are done checking out the Gren Anderson Shelter, retrace your steps to the Stony Brook Trail and continue ahead. In another 150 feet, the Stony Brook Trail ends at a T-intersection with the Appalachian Trail (AT). Turn right at this junction and follow the white blazes of the AT southwest along the forested ridge. There are no views on this section of the AT. The trail, although rocky, is not as bad as some other sections of the AT in this area.

Stony Brook Trail – Stokes State Forest

Appalachian Trail – Stokes State Forest

In about a mile, the green-blazed Tower Trail begins on the right. You will return to this spot to continue the loop, but for now, proceed ahead on the AT for about another 250 feet to the site of the Culvers Station Lookout Tower.

Continue past the junction with the Tower Trail

Culvers Station Lookout – Stokes State Forest

There is a picnic table by a rock outcrop with a west-facing view that makes for a good spot to take a break.

View west from near the base of the Culvers Station Lookout

A Black Vulture soaring above the ridge.

Black Vulture

View northwest from near the base of the Culvers Station Lookout

Culvers Station Lookout Tower, which is still in use for spotting forest fires, was erected in 1933. When it is manned, you can climb up the 47′ tower and go inside the 7’x7′ cab.

Culvers Station Lookout – Stokes State Forest

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service maintains a system of 21 fire towers at strategic locations throughout the state. These towers are staffed with fire observers who monitor for smoke in their geographic region, communicating with other nearby towers to pinpoint the location of smoke. At least one tower in each division is operated whenever the woods are dry enough to burn and all towers are staffed during the months of March, April, May, October and November.

Culvers Station Lookout – Stokes State Forest

The images below were taken from just below the cab. It certainly is worth it to climb the tower at least part way to enjoy these fabulous views that stretch all the way into New York and Pennsylvania.

View north over New Jersey and into NY and Pennsylvania

View west of Kittatinny Lake, the Delaware River Valley and into Pennsylvania

View south over the Kittatinny Valley

View east over the Appalachian Trail as it heads towards Sunrise Mountain and beyond.

High Point, the highest elevation in the State of New Jersey, is 13.5 miles away if you follow the Appalachian Trail (AT) north. The AT passes near the base of the monument.

View northeast of High Point Monument

Stony Lake is visible below, the starting and ending point of this hike.

View of Stony Lake from near the base of the Culvers Station Lookout

Near the base of the Culvers Station Lookout

When you are done enjoying the 360° views from the tower, retrace your steps on the AT to the junction with the green-blazed Tower Trail. Turn left and follow the green blazes to a rock outcrop with more west-facing views. Just to the right, the trail descends steeply over rock slabs for several hunred yards. You may have to use both your hands and feet to tackle this section of trail. It’s probably not a good idea to hike this section of the trail in wet or icy conditions.

Turn left on the green-blazed Tower Trail

The start of the green-blazed Tower Trail

Tower Trail – Stokes State Forest

Once past the initial steep section, the grade moderates as it descends on an extremely rocky footpath. Careful attention should be paid to avoid twisting an ankle or tripping.

Tower Trail – Stokes State Forest

In about 0.4 mile, the Tower Trail crosses Sunrise Mountain Road diagonally to the right. The trail now descends even more moderately, but the rough rocky trail remains an ankle breaker.

Tower Trail as it crosses Sunrise Mountain Road

Tower Trail – Stokes State Forest

In about 0.7 mile from the junction with the AT, the Tower Trail crosses a wooden footbridge over Stony Brook built by the volunteers of the West Jersey Trail Crew in 2019. A short distance beyond, you’ll reach the junction with the brown-blazed Stony Brook Trail. Turn left and retrace your steps about a 1/2 mile, back to the parking lot, where the hike began.

Tower Trail – Stokes State Forest

Turn left at the junction with the Stony Brook Trail

coaligned Stony Brook/Tower trails

Turn right to remain on coaligned Stony Brook/Tower trails

coaligned Stony Brook/Tower trails

coaligned Blue Mountain Loop/Stony Brook/Tower trails

Stony Lake Trailhead – Stokes State Forest

Review:

A really good hike in an area that doesn’t seem to get much foot traffic. The parking lot at the end of the hike was as empty as when we began the hike. The views from the fire tower are the highlight of the hike, but the tranquil surroundings make this trek worthwhile. We drove 1-1/2 hours to do this hike and it was worth the drive. On the way back we stopped to pick up some fresh corn, Jersey Tomatoes and a Cherry-Peach Pie which were all delicious. As stated previously, I would do this hike in reverse, ascending on the Tower Trail and descending on the more knee friendly Stony Brook Trail.

Pros:

Culvers Station Lookout, panoramic views, lightly trafficked trails, well marked and maintained trails, scenic landscape.

Cons:

Rocky ankle-breaker type trails.

Take a hike!

Culver Fire Tower from Stony Lake – Stokes State Forest

Sources:

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

Rehiked – February 28, 2026

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:

Scenes From The Trail

Detailed hike reports, complete with images.

Author Archives: Outlaw_Hiker

Giant Stairs Loop – Palisades Interstate Park

High View Tunnel – Wurtsboro Ridge State Forest

Shawangunk Ridge State Forest Loop from Cox Road Trailhead

Horseshoe Mine Falls – Shawangunk Ridge State Forest

Bear Mountain Summit Loop

Snake Hill Loop from Crystal Lake

Long Path to Gurnee Park from South Mountain Park Trailhead

High Tor State Park

Culver Fire Tower from Stony Lake – Stokes State Forest

Saugerties Lighthouse

Boston Mine Short Loop – Harriman State Park

Hook Mountain Summit via Upper Nyack Trail & Long Path

Kennedy Dells County Park

Pine Knob Loop Trail

Castle Loop Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Bull Hill Short Loop – Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve

Rockland Lake Loop

Stissing Mountain Fire Tower

Cat Rocks – Pawling, NY

Round Hill Loop – Fahnestock State Park

Stahahe High Peak & Island Pond – Harriman State Park

Oscawana Ridge Trail – Fahnestock State Park

Southford Falls State Park

Nonnewaug Falls

Orenaug Park

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

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

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