Harriman Hiker: Harriman and Beyond

Camelback Mountain

2012-02-05T23:43:00.001-05:00

Phoenix
Maricopa County,
Arizona

Trails:
Echo Canyon Trail
Cholla Trail

Total Time: 2:30 hrs
Estimated Distance: 4.2 miles (including walk on road to trailhead)
Level of Difficulty: Difficult
Level of Recommendation: Highly recommended, though very busy
Points Of Interest: Excellent climb with odd formations and great views

I had traveled to Arizona for the week, and was staying in Scottsdale on Sunday, nearby Camelback Mountain. The last time I was staying in the Phoenix area, I was determined to hike Camelback on my next trip, and this was my opportunity. Camelback Mountain is the most prominent mountain in Phoenix, and it's a rugged hump right in the middle of the city.

There are two trails that climb the mountain to the summit: The Echo Canyon Trail on the west, and the Cholla Trail on the east. I started at the Echo Canyon Trail. Parking here is a nightmare - especially on a Sunday in the winter. The parking lot is tiny considering the volume of people. The only option if the parking area is to park about a mile a way and walk over, or take a shuttle which I was unable to find. So I parked all the way down, and walked all the way down the road to the trailhead. I took the Echo Canyon all the way up, and then continued past the summit to the Cholla Trail all the way down, for a full Camelback experience. I was able to get a rid at the bottom back at my car.

Map of the Route

At the beginning of the hike

Caves in the sandstone,
with some Saguaros, near the beginning of the hike.

Continuing the climb.

The steep climbing scramble part.

Continuing the Ascent

View facing downtown.
Facing South.

Mummy Mountain and Paradise Valley.
Facing northwest.

View from the summit.
Facing southeast towards Scottsdale.

Me at the Summit.

View north from the Summit, with Mummy Mnt.

View from summit facing northeast.

Vertical Cliff right below the summit.
Note the person on the top left.

View towards Downtown Scottsdale on the Descent.

Kakiat Mountain

2012-01-29T23:43:00.007-05:00

Kakiat County Park /
Harriman State Park
Rockland County, NY

Trails:
Mountain Trail: Orange blaze
Kakiat Trail: White blaze
Old Mill Trail: Blue blaze

Total Time: 1:20 hour
Estimated Distance: 2.65 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Slightly Difficult
Level of Recommendation: Highly recommended
Points Of Interest: Good climb and view on top

Google Maps of Parking:

View 2012 Winter in a larger map

I was short on time so had to do a quick hike with a good workout, so Kakiat was perfect. The snow had all melted earlier last week, and the weather was relatively mild. I started in the main parking area, climbed up the Mountain Trail to the view atop Kakiat Mountain, and continued along the Mountain Trail past the power lines to the end of the trail at the Kakiat Trail. Took the Kakiat Trail all the way down, and at the intersection with the Old Mill Trail cut across straight into the woods along the stream for a short shortcut to the Old Mill Trail. From the Old Mill Trail went along the side of the Mahwah River and back to the parking area.

Map of the Route

The Bridge Across the Mahwah River.
At the Beginning of the Hike.
The Water Level is Very High

View at the top of Kakiat,
Facing Lower Cobus Mnt and the power lines.
Facing Northeast

The View from the top of Kakiat.
Facing Southeast with the Parking Area and the Mahwah River Below.

Another View from the top.
Facing East.

The Mountain Trail Directly Past the View,
Heading Towards the Power Lines.

Halfway Mountain/Diamond Mountain

2012-01-22T15:27:00.015-05:00

Harriman State Park,
Rockland County, NY

Trails:
Pine Meadow Trail: Red Blaze
Stony Brook Trail: Yellow Blaze
Kakiat Trail: White Blaze
Hillburn Torne Sebago (HTS) Trail: Orange Blaze
Seven Hills Trail: Black Blaze

Total Time: 3:00 hour (took longer due to snow)
Estimated Distance: 4.5 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Difficult, especially in the snow
Level of Recommendation: Highly recommended. One of the best in Harriman.
Points Of Interest: Excellent climb and views, and very scenic along brook.

Hiking Partners:
Mordy Neuman
Sruly Rosenberg

Google Maps of Parking:

View 2012 Winter in a larger map

We have finally gotten a snowstorm. Although there have been a few frigid days here and there, generally this winter has been very warm with no snow. It had finally snowed a real snowstorm, with about 6 inches the day before. We started at the Reeves Measow Parking area on Seven Lakes Drive in Sloatsburg, and headed up along the path along the brook, from the Pine Meadow Trail to the Stony Brook Trail to the Kakiat Trail, past the frozen Cascase of Slid, and from there we took the HTS Trail up Halfway Mountain. We took a break and some pictures here, and then continued to the intersection of the 7 Hills Trail, where there is a very good view. From here going down was really crazy in the snow, and more than once we didn't know how we would make it. Part of the area down required us literally sliding down the side of the rock. Once we got down we crossed the brook and took the Pine Meadow Trail all the way back to the trailhead.

Map of the Route

Mordy & Sruly at the Pine Meadow Brook

Cascade of Slide Waterfall,
Almost Entirely Frozen Over

Frozen Cascade of Slid

Me at the Halfway Mountain Viewpoint.
Facing southwest.

Sruly & Mordy at the Diamond Mountain view.
Facing south.

Diamond Mnt View.
Facing Southwest.

Me and Sruly, Diamond Mnt

Me at rock ad Diamond Mountain

Sliding down the Mountain.
That rock is the same one as above.

View at the Lower part of Diamond Mnt, before descending.
Facing west, towards the Pine Meadow Brook Valley.

Same view as above, facing east-southeast.

Mordy maneuvering down the scramble

Lake Welch and Conklin Mountain

2012-01-15T22:17:00.010-05:00

Lake Sebago / Conklin Mountain
Harriman State Park,
Rockland Co.,
New York
Trails:
Seven Hills Trail: Blue blaze
Tuxedo-Mount Ivy Trail: Red blaze

Total Time: 1:10 hr
Estimated Distance: 2.8 miles
Level of Difficulty: Slightly Difficult
Level of Recommendation: Slightly Recommended. Tranquil, but no view.
Points Of Interest: Good climb, tranquility, and excellent lake views.

Google Maps of Parking:

View 2012 Winter in a larger map

This was my first totally frigid hike of the winter season. When I started the hike, my car thermometer measured 12 degrees. When I finished the hike, it measured 16. At least it was sunny and the wind was minimal. But since I was alone and the weather was so cold, I did a smaller hike than usual.

I started at the Lake Sebago Boatch Launch area off Seven Lakes Drive. It is opposite here that the Seven Hills Trail starts. I took the Seven Hills Trail up the mountain, past the Diamond Brook, and then veered off on the road towards Lake Wanoksink for just a short bit until the Tuxedo-Mount Ivy Trail. I then took the Tuxedo-Mount Ivy Trail down the mountain to the Lake Sebago Dam, and then took the path parallel to the shoreline of the lake heading north back to my car.

Map of the Route

Lake Sebago from the Boat Launch.
This part is entirely frozen with clear ice.

Ice Formations on the Lake Shore.

Another View from the Boat Launch of the Frozen Lake,
with an overturned beached boat.

On the northern part of Diamond Mountain at the intersection
of the 7 Hills and Tuxedo-Mt. Ivy Trail.

The Lake Sebago Dam with 7 Lakes Drive Directly Above.

Southern part of Lake Sebago.
For some reason this part of the Lake was not frozen.

West Mountain Loop

2012-01-01T21:16:00.014-05:00

Bear Mountain State Park /
Harriman State Park,
Rockland Co.,
New York

Trails:
1777 W Trail: Red blaze
Appalachian Trail: White blazed
Timp-Torne Trail: Blue blaze
Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail: Yellow blaze

Total Time: 2:15 hr
Estimated Distance: 4.3 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Difficult
Level of Recommendation: Highly Recommended
Points Of Interest: Good climb and Many excellent views

Hiking Partners:
Debbie and Raphael Koegel

Google Maps of Parking:

View 2012 Winter in a larger map

This was another unseasonably warm day. It was so warm that we didn't even need to wear our coats. We parked at the hiker's trailhead off 7 Lakes Drive near Perkins Drive, took the 1777 W Trail briefly to the Appalachian Trail, and then took the Appalachian up West Mountain. As you are nearing the top there is an excellent view here facing north directly towards Bear Mountain which is opposite. This part of the Appalachain Trail has recently been renovated and slightly rerouted in a few areas.

Continued along to the intersection with the Timp-Torne Trail, and then took the concurrent Appalachian and Timp-Torne trails along the West Mountain Ridge, which continuously passes along excellent views. After the trail split, continued on the Timp Torne, until the Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail. We then took the Suffern Bear Mountain Trail slightly down and up again, and then steeply down and then alongside the brook, back to the 177W Trail, and then back to the car.

Map of the Route

View along the Appalachian while ascending West Mountain.
Facing east towards the Hudson and Dunderberg

View of Bear Mountain from the above view. Facing northeast.
Note the Bear Mountain Tower near the left side.

Me and Raphael with Bear Mountain behind us.

Me posing at the same view.

Another pose.

View from West Mountain view over Anthony Wayne.
Facing west with the Palisades Parkway directly below and
Lindley Mountain in the background.

Another view from West Mountain.
Facing South.

Me and Raphael over the Anthony Wayne parking lot.

Raphael on top of a rock formation on West Mountain.

Beech Trail - Hasenclever Mine

2011-12-25T23:03:00.010-05:00

Harriman State Park
Rockland Co.,
New York

Trails:
Beech Trail: Blue blaze
Hasenclever Road: Not blazed
Red Cross Trail: Red blaze

Total Time: 2:15 hr
Estimated Distance: 4.5 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Level of Recommendation: Slightly ecommended
Points Of Interest: Quiet area, historic cemetary, and ancient iron mine

Hiking Partner:
Shimmy Rosenberg

Google Maps of Parking:

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We parked on County Rt. 106 after Lake Welch, where the Beech Trail crosses the road, and headed north on the Beech Trail. We passed the old historic cemetary in the woods and continued to the intersection of the Hasenclever Road. We planned on turning on the road but Shimmy found a geocache nearby so we took a small detour on the foot of Nat House Mountain to find the geocache. We then climbed the short climb up Nat House Mountain, then bushwacked down back to the Hasenclever Road towards the Hasenclever Mine.

The Hasenclever Mine was an ancient iron mine from the 1700's, and it is one of the oldest mines in the park. It was mined for Magnetite and Pyrhottite which are iron ores. There is one large water-filled pit and one smaller one, and an extensive overgrown dump. From the mine we took the Red Cross Trail for a brief time towards the path to Lake Askoti, and from there to the unmarked Rockhouse Mountain Trail. We sort of got lost on the unmarked Rockhouse Mountain Trail and ended up having to bushwack to the top of Rockhouse Mountain and then over to the road, and we walked on the road for a short duration.

Map of the route

Old Tombstone in the Cemetary

More Tombstones in the Old Cemetary along the Beech Trail

Shimmy Searching for the Geocache on Nat House Mnt

Shimmy Finds the Geocache at this rock.

Main water-filled pit of the Hasenclever Mine

The mine dumps. Hasenclever Mountain in the Background.

Rockhouse Mountain, the tallest point of Rockland.
Along our bushwack.

Torne View

2011-12-18T23:07:00.016-05:00

Harriman State Park
Rockland Co.,
New York

Trails:
Pine Meadow Trail: Red blaze
Reeves Brook Trail: White blaze
Seven Hills Trail: Blue blaze
Pine Meadow Trail: Red blaze

Total Time: 2:40 hr
Estimated Distance: 4.75 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Difficult
Level of Recommendation: Recommended
Points Of Interest: Torne View, Pristine Scenery

Google Maps of Parking:

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This was the first really cold hike of the season. It has been unseasonably warn until now, but I really had to bundle up for this hike. I parked at the Reeves Meadow hiker's trailhead, and took the Pine Meadow Trail for a very brief moment and veered off at the Reeves Brook Trail. This trail slowly climbs the mountain through a very scenic forest route on the side of the small Reeves Brook. I took the Reeve's Brook Trail to the Seven Hills Trail, which I then took south to the Torne View. The Torne view is an excellent one. From there continued along the notch right before the HTS Trail, and then descended the mountain on the Seven Hills Trail, and took this route al the way back to the Pine Meadow which is right by Reeves Brook.

Map of the Route.

People Descending the Scramble on the 7 Hills

View from Torne View. Facing northwest.

Another view from the Torne View. Facing West.

View From the Torne View, facing south
and High Torne Mountain.

View above the notch, facing the Torne View. Facing north.

View from mountain below High Torne.
Facing south towards the landfill.

View from mountain below High Torne.
Facing east at the Power Lines.

Kakiat to Pine Meadow Lake

2011-12-11T22:37:00.017-05:00

Kakiat County Park /
Harriman State Park
Rockland Co.,
New York
Trails:
Kakiat Trail: White blaze
Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail: Yellow blaze
Conklins Crossing Trail: --- blaze
Pine Meadow Trail: Red blaze

Total Time: 2:50 hr
Estimated Distance: 6 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Difficult
Level of Recommendation: Recommended
Points Of Interest: Upper Cobus Mountain Views, Pine Meadow Lake

Hiking Partner:
Shimmy Rosenberg

Google Maps of Parking:
Start:

View Hiking Blog Localities in a larger map

Finish:

View Hiking Blog Localities in a larger map

This is the first time I am using GPS essentials on my Android phone, and I am using this to track my route and generate maps for me following my exact route.

This was a two car hike. We left one car at the Ramapo Equestrian Center, which is also the trailhead for the Pine Meadow Trail, and then took the other car to Kakiat. This was the first seasonal weather hike, and we required our winter coats for this long and strenuous hike. After parking at Kakiat, we took the Kakiat Trail up the mountain, past the power line, and then at the Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail went north and continued along the Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail to the Conklin's Crossing Trail. Took the Conklin's Crossing to the eastern terminus of Pine Meadow Lake, which was especially quiet and serene this time of year. Pine Meadow Lake has no nearby road access, so all its visitors are hikers. The eastern end is especially quiet.

From there we took the Pine Meadow Trail north, thru the forest and swamp, through its brief connection with the Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail, and then down the mountain on the Pine Meadow. I usually take a shortcut where the trail bends out of the way, and judging by the cairns and chainsawed fallen trees, it appears the trailblazers are preparing to reroute the trail to my shorter route. I think this route was the original Pine Meadow Trail route. From there took the trail under the power lines and then along the gas route, and then back to the car.

Map of the Route.
Generated from GPS Essentials following our GPS track.

Lower Cobus Mountain from the Kakiat Trail by Power Lines

View from Cobus Mountain, facing south. On S-BM Trail.

Shimmy descending rocky notch on S-BM Trail.
Note the patchy snow which is on the shady side of the mountain.

View from Upper Cobus Mountain, on S-BM Trail.
Facing east.

View from Upper Cobus Mountain, on S-BM Trail.
Facing northeast, with the Tilcon Haverstraw Quarry in the distance.

Pine Meadow Lake, eastern shore.

Me at Pine Meadow Lake.

Shimmy near the end of the Pine Meadow Trail,
near the Power Lines. Note the new cairns.

Anthony Wayne Trail

2011-12-04T22:40:00.016-05:00

Harriman State Park
Orange Co.,
New York

Trails:
1777 W Trail: Red blaze
Timp- Torne Trail: Blue blaze
Anthony Wayne Trail: White blaze

Total Time: 2:45 hr
Estimated Distance: 5.7 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Level of Recommendation: Not Recommended
Points Of Interest: Turkey Hill Lake

Google Maps of Parking:

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I parked at the lower Bear Mountain Trailhead off of Seven Lakes Drive, and took the 1777 W Trail west paralleling the road. At its intersection with the Time Torn Trail, took the trail across the Palisades Parkway on the overpass, and then around the Queensboro Lake police shooting range, and then continued on the trail to the shoreline of Queensboro Lake. Continued along the trail across the brook, and right after the crossing there is a nice small waterfall cascade right below the outlet dam of the Turkey Hill Lake.

Turkey Hill Lake is one of the most remote and serene Lakes in Harriman, with no vehicular access so it always requires a hike to view. Continued along the path on the southern shore of the lake, and at the intersection of the Anthony Wayne Trail I veered south onto that trail. I took the Anthony Wayne Trail in its entirety from beginning to end. Continued on the trail to Route 6, crossed the busy road, and then went into the wet and swampy area until 7 Lakes Drive. I fell in the mud a few times here on the trail getting my boots and pants all muddy. Crossed 7 Lakes Drive at Queensboro Brook, and then continued along the trail past the Anthony Wayne Rec area and then all the way to the end of the trail at the intersection of the Timp Torne Trail. Much of the Anthony Wayne Trail is very close to the highway and you constantly hear the loud sounds of the cars on the highway, which disturb the sense of serenity. Took the Timp-Torne north for a very short distance to the 1777 W and then headed back to my car from there.

Map of the Route

I recommend staying on the trail as well.
Sign on trail near Queensboro Lake.

Queensboro Lake from 1777 W Trail. Facing southeast.

Another view of Queensboro Lake

Small waerfall near the Turkey Hill Lake outlet.

Turkey Hill Lake. Facing east.

Turkey Hill Lake. Facing east with Long Mountain in the background.

Turkey Hill Lake, facing east at Bear Mountain.

Plaque explaining the revolutionary trail markers at the beginning of the trail.

Dunderberg Spiral Railway

2011-11-27T22:37:00.014-05:00

Bear Mountain State Park
Rockland Co.,
New York

Trails:
Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail: Red blaze
Timp- Torne Trail: Blue blaze
Dunderberg Spiral Railway Path

Total Time: 2:15 hr
Estimated Distance: 4 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Slightly difficult
Level of Recommendation: Recommended
Points Of Interest: Several good views and historical interest

Hiking Partner:
Debbie Koegel

Google Maps of Parking:

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The good weather continues. Was a beautiful Sunday in late November, and we decided on the eastern flank of Dunderberg which affords a good vertical ascent as well as several good views. We climbed along the R-D Trail, and passed the Dunderberg Spiral Railway tunnels and then took the hoist path as it is followed by the R-D Trail. Throughout this trail the hike passes and goes along parts of the spiral railway remnants. The Dunderberg Spiral Railway was an ambitious project in the early 20th century which involved building a large hotel atop Dunderberg Mountain, and creating a railway that snakes itself up the mountain. This project was abandoned in the middle, leaving many remnants of its existence throughout this part of the hike.

We took several of the good views, including the Indian Point Nuclear Power Plant, the City of Peekskill, and the Bear Mountain Bridge between Bear Mountain and Anthony's Nose. After a swamp before ascending Bald Mountain, we opted to take one of the railway paths back down to the T-T Trail and then head back from there. We cut across and took the T-T Trail back to our car.

Map of the Route.

Indian Point from first lookout on R-D Trail.
Facing southeast.

City of Peekskill from across the Hudson River.
Facing northeast.

Rail Bridge on the other side of the Hudson north of Peekskill.
Facing northeast.

Anthony's Nose from top view.
With Route 6 and 202 snaking along the side of the mountain.
Facing north-northeast.

Me at the top view, with the Bear Mountain Bridge behind me.
Bear Mountain bridge is to the left of me. Looking north.

View of Bald Mountain

One of the railway tunnels along the T-T Trail.

View facing south while descending the T-T Trail.

Nickel Mine and MacMillan Reservoir

2011-11-20T17:44:00.015-05:00

Ramapo Valley County Reservation,
Mahwah
Bergen Co.,
New Jersey

Trails:
Silver Trail: Silver blaze
Ridge Trail: Blue blaze
Waterfall Trail: Yellow blaze
River Trail: Red blaze

Total Time: 2:25 hr
Estimated Distance: 4.2 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Moderate to Slightly difficult
Level of Recommendation: Recommended
Points Of Interest: Nice lakes, good view, and mine

Google Maps of Parking:

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The weather so far every Sunday in November has been fabulous. Today was no different, reaching a high close to 60 with a full sun and blue sky. I parked in the main parking area off Route 202, which is very large and always has lots of cars on a Sunday, especially when the weather is nice. Took the heavily used Silver Trail going up, and took the quieter western spur of the Silver Trail as I started climbing the mountain. From there took the Ridge Trail in its entirety. I took it to the view, then at the intersection of the Havemeyer Trail I bushwacked down a little bit to check out the Nickel Mine. There are two open pits with dumps, but not much of anything interesting here.

Continued back along the Ridge Trail, past the bend, and descended down towards the brook and to the Silver Trail. Took the Silver Trail to the dam of the MacMillan Reservoir, where it starts getting real busy. At one this was once a road, and so it is very wide and has lots of people walking on it such as joggers and people walking their dogs. I took the spur off to the right on the quieter waterfall trail, took some pictures at the waterfall (which was flowing nicely due to abundant rains), and then continued down to the bottom of the mountain where I took the River Trail. Took this route along the side of the Ramapo Trail back to the Silver Trail right near the terminus, and then back to my car.

Map of the Route

Fisherman in the Ramapo River at the beginning of the hike.
Taken from the bridge.

Scarlet Oak Reservoir. Facing Hawk Rock.

View on the Ridge Trail.
Facing east with Ramapo College in View.

The view on the Ridge Trail. Facing South.

Another shot from the view on the Ridge Trail.
Facing southwest.

Mine Pit at the Nickel Mine, surrounded by the dumps.

MacMillan Reservoir, from the Dam. Facing northwest.

The waterfall near the bottom of the mountain.

Fingerboard Mountain & the Bottle Cap Trail

2011-11-13T22:57:00.010-05:00

Harriman State Park,
Orange Co.,
New York

Trails:
Hurst Trail: Blue blaze
Appalachian Trail: White blaze
Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail: Red blaze

Total Time: 2:15 hr
Estimated Distance: 2.8 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Level of Recommendation: Recommended for beautiful flora
Points Of Interest: Beautiful and lush trees and plants

Hiking Partners:
Gary Greenstein

Google Maps of Parking:

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This was a hike in late autumn, and the first hike with all the trees already having shed their leaves. However, this hike goes through a beautiful area of Harriman State Park rich in different plant types such as evergreen Mountain Laurels, colorful lichen, and green pine and hemlock forests. So despite the leaves gone in most of the trees, this hike was still very colorful. We parked off Seven Lakes Drive off the entrance to Camp Thendara, but we got a notice on the windshield stating that it's illegal to park here. Glad there was no ticket and the car wasn't towed.

We took the short Hurst trail up to the Fingerboard Mountain shelter where it hits the combined Appalachian and Ramapo-Dunderberg Trails. Continued on the Ramapo-Dunderberg after the split, taking it all the way down to the Bottle Cap Trail. The Bottle Cap Trail is an unofficial trail with it's markings using bottlecaps, hence it's name. This trail is not recommended for inexperienced hikers due to its overgrown state and easyness in missing the markers. I was on this trail about three years ago and found it much easier to follow in the past then it was now. All the downed trees and flooding from the recent severe storms have taken a big toll on this unmaintained trail.

We took the Bottle Cap all the way to the end where it nears 7 Lakes Drive and then went back to our car.

Map of the Route

Ascending the Hurst Trail, Looking Towards the Shelter

Gary Reading the Trail Intersection Sign

On Top of Fingerboard Mountain. Facing West.

Gary Atop Fingerboard. Facing East Towards Lake Tiorati.

Lake Tiorati From Fingerboard Mnt.

Amazing Colors on the Mountaintop

More Amazing Colors. The Bright Red Plants are Blueberries.
Blueberries are late foliage plants.

Me Atop Fingerboard with the Red Blueberries

Fingerboard Viewpoint, facing southeast.
Jackie Jones Tower is in the Distance.

Bottle Cap Trail In the Valley.
Note the Marker on the Tree.

Montague Quartz Mine

2011-11-06T21:39:00.005-05:00

Montague,
Sussex Co.,
New Jersey

Estimated Distance: 1.6 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Easy until mine which requires difficult, steep, but shot hike up
Level of Recommendation: Recommended for good views and if you are interested in mining
Points Of Interest: Beautiful views of High Point and Mine

Google Maps of Parking:

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One of my other interests is exploratory mining, in which I explore old mining locations. This was more like mineral collecting but involved a beautiful area in which I was able to also hike. I had joined the North Jersey Mineral Society for this event, and we went as a group. Afterwards I went to explore the surrounding mountain and hiked along the ridge for a short while and got some excellent photos.

This hike is literally only a few short feet from the NY/NJ state border near Port Jervis in Montague. Its right off I-84 and is easily found. We parked at the shopping center parking area (Shoprite), crossed the street, went along the side to cross the bridge by the brook, and then headed down the path along a crystal-clear brook. According to our guide, this path was the original Route 23 before it was rerouted. There is an old abandoned small bridge crossing the brook which at one time carried the narrow old Route 23 across. As the brook opened up to a swamp on our right, we saw the rock outcrop along the side of the mountain, where the Quartz crystals exist.

We climbed up the rocky hill, and did some collecting from the upper part. Once I collected several nice transparent colorless Quartz crystals, I continued up the extremely steep slope to the top of the narrow ridge, and went along the side of the ridge to look for photo spots. I then snaked down, and went back to the quarry to the group, and then we all headed back with our finds.

Map of the Route
Some of the route is repeated.

Beautiful Fall Colors From the top of the Quarry.
Overlooking High Point State Park Tower.
Facing east.

View from the Mountain Top.
Looking Straight at the High Point Tower.
High Point is the highest point in New Jersey.
Facing east.

Another view from the ridge top.
Facing northeast.

The tranquil stream just before it opens into the swamp.

Club Members at the Montague Quartz Quarry.

Rare Autumn Snow Hike

2011-10-30T20:51:00.019-04:00

Pine Meadow and HTS Trails,
Harriman State Park,
Rockland Co.,
New York

Trails:
Pine Meadow Trail: Red blaze
Stony Brook Trail: Yellow blaze
Hillburn-Torne-Sebago Trail: Orange blaze

Total Time: 2:20 hr
Estimated Distance: 3.4 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Very Difficult due to climbing in snowy conditions
Level of Recommendation: Highly Recommended
Points Of Interest: Beauriful river path, amazing views

Hiking Partners:
S&M Rosenberg

Google Maps of Parking:

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This hike was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It combined fall foliage togethor with a over a foot of snow. We had gotten a freak snowstorm in the end of October, the biggest ever by far on record (snow does not happen at all this time of the year!), and the trees still all had their leaves on them. Aside from the trees fallen and losing power for almost a week, the setting of the white snow with the fall foliage was absolutely incredible.

This was the backdrop of our hike. We parked at the Reeve's Meadow trailhead off 7 Lakes Drive near Sloatsburg. We actually got a spot in a parking lot despite this being a Sunday. I guess the snow scared people off. This parking lot is always full with cars parked lining all the way up and down 7 Lakes Drive on a typical Sunday. The weather was also extremely cold for October and we had to bundle well. I was not used to this as I still hadn't put on any coat yet for the season.

We went along the Pine Meadow Trail, to the Stony Brook Trail, and then where it crosses the Pine Meadow Brook we took the unmarked spur trail back to the Pine Meadow Trail. From there we continued till the HTS Trail, which we turned right on to climb up the mountain. The view here is really good, and the panorama of snow and bright fall colors for miles and miles was amazing! And on top of the mountain there was a remarkable two feet of snow! We turned around from there and went back down the HTS back to the Pine Meadow Trail all the way back to our car. This hike was definitley my most memorable hike this past year.

Hiking Map of the Route

Seven Lakes Drive Approaching Reeves Meadow Trailhead

Me and the Rosenberg brothers at the Trailhead

Me navigating through downed trees

The colorful trees and the snow. On the Pine Meadow Trail.

A bright blue sky adds to the color.

At the Gas Line crossing on the Stony Brook Trail

More amazing colors, on the Stony Brook Trail.

Ascending near the Pine Meadow Trail opposite Cascase of Slid.

Ascending near the mountain on the HTS Trail.
Note the wet snow covering everything.

View from the summit viewpoint. Facing northwest.

Another view from the summit. Facing southwest.

Shimmy at the summit. Facing north.

Me at the summit.

Relaxing in 2 feet of snow.

Summit view - facing northwest.

Trees along the Pine Meadow Trail

At the descent at the Gas pipeline on the Pine Meadow Trail

Silvermine Lake & Black Mountain

2011-10-23T22:40:00.012-04:00

Harriman State Park,
Rockland Co.,
New York

Trails:
Menomine Trail: Yellow blaze
Appalachian Trail (AT): White blaze
Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail (R-D): Red blaze

Total Time: 3:00 hr
Estimated Distance: 4.5 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Slightly difficult
Level of Recommendation: Highly Recommended
Points Of Interest: Scenic Lake, Good climb, and amazing views

Hiking Partners:
Shimmy Rosenberg

Google Maps of Parking:

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This hike was at the peak of the fall foliage, with the striking colors in full force. I wanted to get a hike with a beatiful lake and solid viepoint, so this was the perfect combination. We parked at the Silvermine Lake parking area off Seven Lakes Drive, and took the path along the western part of the lake towards the dam. At the dam bushwacked down slightly, and then crossed the outlet stream on the rocks. Over the other side there is an old road that is an unmarked trail that first goes along the northern shore of Silvermine Lake, and then slowly climbs the mountain. Not too far later it hits the combined AT and R-D Trails.

At that intersection we took the combined AT and R-D Trails up black mountain, where there is a short but solid climb to a fantastic viewpoint where you can get a very pretty view of the lake. Continued along towards the summit of Black Mountain, which provides one of the best views in the entire Harriman Park. We also explored the Spanish Mine on the top of Black Mountain. The Spanish Mine is mostly filled in and only a short pit, and not all that interesting.

From here we turned around back and continued along the AT all the way to the Menomine Trail. Stopped at the shelter for a few minutes which was extremely busy, and then took the Menomine Trail back to the parking area.

Map of the Route

Foliage at the Beginning of Hike

Silvermine Lake. Western shore.

Silvermine Lake, near Dam

Group of Japanese crossing the brook near the lake outlet

Black Mountain. First viewpoint overlooking the lake.

Same view, zoomed in.

Same viewpoint, different angle of Lake

Near the summit of Black Mountain.
Facing south towards Hi-Tor.

View from Black Mnt Summit.
Facing south with Manhattan Skyline in view straight ahead.

Summit view. Facing south.

The inconspicuous Spanish Mine.

The busy shelter at the AT and Menomine Intersections.

Another Lake Shot on the return.
From the southern shore of the lake along the Menomine Trail.

Lake Welch and Jackie Jones Firetower

2011-10-17T20:31:00.014-04:00

Harriman State Park,
Rockland Co.,
New York

Trails:
Suffern-Bear Mountain (S-BM) Trail: Yellow blaze

Total Time: 1:40 hr
Estimated Distance: 2.4 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Level of Recommendation: Recommended
Points Of Interest: Scenic Lake, Amazing view from Fire Tower

Hiking Partners:
S&M Rosenberg

Google Maps of Parking:

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I have been to this Fire Tower many times, and I especially enjoy going during the fall. Several years ago before I started the blog I had taken the old S-BM Trail route down from the Fire Tower to Lake Welch. It was during the winter and the entire way down was an ice slide. This route was the original route of the SB-M trail and was instead routed down towards the Orak ruin, but the old unmarked trail remained. I had noticed they had cut some trees and reblazed a path in that same area, apparently to install an electric wire or pipline or something going to the Jackie Jones communication tower. This new wide path pretty much follows the S-BM route, and this I decided to take this route up.

This hike was at the beginning of the peak of the autumn foliage. We parked on Lake Kanawauke Rd (County Rt. 106) right after it crosses the Minesceongo Creek. We took the S-BM along the northern flank of the road, and then where the S-BM splits off the trail to go to the Irish Rock, we went off the S-BM on the unmarked trail which takes you to the Beaver Pond Campsite. The campsite was already closed for the season and was deserted. We looked around and then took the campground road down to the main road, and then hit the side of Lake Welch by the dam for some pictures. We then crossed the road and tool the old original S-BM trail up the mountain to the Jackie Jones fire tower. We climbed the tower taking some excellent fall foliage shots with the panoramic views, and then we headed down the S-BM passing through the ORAK ruin and then back to the parking area.

Near the beginning of the hike,
right after the spur of the S-BM Trail.
Looking southwest towards Jackie Jones Mountain
with the communication tower on top.

The Rosenberg Brothers in the foliage

Pond at the Campground.

Walking down the campground road.

Lake Welch from the northeast shore.

The recently trees cut down to make a path up to Jackie Jones Mnt.
This used to be the old S-BM route.

Me on the Fire Tower.

From the Fire Tower, facing north towards Bear Mnt and Breakneck.

From the Fire Tower, overlooking Lake Welch to the west.

From the Fire Tower,
looking south towards NYC and the visible Manhattan skyline

From the Fire Tower,
looking east towards the communications tower, the Hudson, and Hi-Tor.

A better view of Lake Welch from the Fire Tower.
With the island in the middle.

Structure in the ORAK ruin along the S-BM Trail heading down.

Another structure in the ORAK ruin.

Walking down near the end of the hike.

Kakiat Autumn Foliage

2011-10-11T20:53:00.004-04:00

I often go for walks around Kakiat County Park and was walking along the Old Mill Trail and was struck by this beautiful fall foliage scene. Unfortunately I did not have my camera with me, so I had to use my cell phone camera which does not at all do justice to this picture. The colors in the picture are not enhanced!

Ramapo Mountain State Forest

2011-10-09T23:13:00.002-04:00

Oakland,
Bergen County,
New Jersey

Trails:
MacEvoy Trail: Blue blaze
Hoeferlin Trail: Yellow blaze
Lookout Trail: Red blaze

Total Time: 1:15 hr
Estimated Distance: 2.4 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Level of Recommendation: Recommended, though too many people
Points Of Interest: Scenic Lake, Nice views of the Wyanokies

Google Maps of Parking:

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Ramapo Mountain State Forest contains a dense network of trails in a small area in the Ramapo Highlands of New Jersey. There are some scenic views with a picturesque lake, though the trails here are very busy, especially on weekends. I parked in the lower parking area on Skyline Drive near Oakland, right off Interstate 287. Took the MacEvoy Trail up to Ramapo Lake, and then took the Hoeferlin Trail (combined with the Lookout Trail) up the mountain to the viewpoint, and then continued along and picked up the Lookout Trail. There is a spur that goes to a view off the Lookout Trail, though I didn't find it, probably partly due to my being in a big rush to get back home. After the descent of the Lookout Trail, took a short bushwack across the brook back to the MacEvoy Trail and back to my car.

Map of the Route

Ramapo Lake from the easternmost point

Ramapo Lake from the Dam

Lookout Trail Marker

View From the Summit Lookout,
Looking north towards Ramapo Lake and the Wyanokies

The same view, zoomed in,
with Wyanokie High Point in the Distance.

View from the Summit Lookout, Facing West.

View from the Summit Lookout, Facing South

View From the Lookout Trail before descending.
Facing northeast directly towards Interstate 287.

Cheescoate Pond

2011-10-05T22:47:00.012-04:00

Cheesecoate Mountain Town Park,
Rockland County,
New York

Trails:
Long Path: Green blaze
Unmarked path around Cheescoate Pond

Total Time: 0:15 hr
Estimated Distance: 0.7 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Very Easy
Level of Recommendation: Recommended for a very short walk
Points Of Interest: Scenic and tranquil pond

Google Maps of Parking:

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This is another very short hike. It is more of a walk then a hike, as much of the path is a wide, double-lane path. Cheescoate Pond is a very serene and scenic pond with a path around the lake. The fall foliage was already starting so I made sure to get some good pictures. I parked on Cheescoate Lane, a short cul-de-sac in the new expensive housing development, where a path at the Cul de sac leads to the pond. The Long Path skirts along the south part of the pond. I took the path around the lake and then headed back to the car.

Map of the Route

Cheescoate Pond from the South Shore, near the inlet

Cheescoate Pond from the North Shore, at the outlet

Same view as above zoomed in.
Note the foliage colors beginning to display.

Rockhouse Mountainand Lake Welch

2011-09-26T21:13:00.024-04:00

Harriman State Park,
Rockland County,
New York

Trails:
Took unmarked trails and bushwacks

Total Time: 0:20 hr
Estimated Distance: 0.6 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Difficult but very short
Level of Recommendation: Recommended
Points Of Interest: Highest Point in Rockland County, Nice View

Google Maps of Parking:

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My time has been very short this time of the year and I lacked the time to take lengthy hikes. So I will post several shorter hikes for the next several weeks. Before hiking up Rockhouse Mountain I stopped at Lake Welch right after the Causeway on Route 106 for views of the Lake. The trees have just slightly started changing color and this could officially count as the first fall foliage hike.

Rockhouse Mountain is officially the highest point in Rockland County at 1,283 feet tall. There is no trail going up this mountain. There is somewhat of an overgrown path, but the hike is pretty much a bushwack. I had hiked this area for the first time in early April of this year. I decided to explore a bit more with the green on the trees, and also needed a very short hike, which this afforded. Although I didn't hit the actual summit, which is further east/northeast, I came close and made the view.

I parked on Lake Kanawauke Rd (County Route 106) after it winds along the side of Rockhouse Mountain on a side pull-off near the Long Path trail, and climbed the mountain on its western flank, which is full of rocky boulders. Climbed to the view and summit, went a little more along the ridge, and then bushwacked down the steep slope back to the road slightly before the bend and then hiked back along the side of the road.

Map of the Route

Lake Welch from the Causeway. Facing Southwest.

Lake Welch from the Causeway. Facing Northeast.

Lake Welch from the Causeway. Facing Southwest.

Talus, Rocks. and Boulders Ascending Rockhouse Mountain

View From Atop Rockhouse. Facing Southwest.

View From Atop Rockhouse. Facing Southwest towards the Swamp.

Lake Kanawauke Rd (Route 106) with early fall foliage.
Facing Lake Welch Parkway overpass in the Green Swamp.

Red Cross Trail

2011-09-18T22:50:00.000-04:00

Harriman State Park,
Orange County
(and a small bit of Rockland County)
New York

Trails:
Arden Surebridge (ASB) Trail: Red Triange Blaze
Red Cross Trail: Red Blaze
Long Path: Green Blaze

Total Time: 2:00 hr
Estimated Distance: 2.5 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Level of Recommendation: Highly Recommended
Points Of Interest: Tranquil forest and lake scenery with good views

Google Maps of Parking:

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This was a stunning September day. The parking lot by the lakes often fills up rather quickly on nice weekends, so its important to get here early. I had to scramble around to find a parking spot. I started at the parking area at Lake Skanatati off of Seven Lakes Drive. I went up the ASB Trail to the view atop Pine Swamp Mountain to the famous view, and from there took the Red Cross Trail down, across Seven Lakes Drive, and onto the shore of Lake Askoti.

This part of the Lake is very serene with boulder jagging into the crystal clear water. From there continued up the trail as it climbs the eastern part of Hasenclever Mountain. There is a nice view here not shown on the Trail Conference Map overlooking Hogencamp Mountain. Continued along to intersection with the unmarked trail that passes along from Lake Askoti. From there I went back towards the shore of Lake Askoti.

Map of the Route.
I pulled this from an older post in 2009.

View from the Pine Swamp Mnt View.
Facing south facing Lake Skanatati and Lake Kanawauke

Same view, but a bit more west and zoomed.

Rock Jutting into Lake Askoti.

View of Hogencamp Mnt.

Indian Rock

2011-09-11T21:30:00.016-04:00

Sam's Point Preserve
Shawangunk Mountains,
Ulster County,
New York

Trails:
Loop Road
High Point Carriageway
Indian Rock Trail: Yellow blaze

Total Time: 2:30 hr
Estimated Distance: 5 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Level of Recommendation: Recommended
Points Of Interest: Excellent Views and Interesting Rock formations

Google Maps of Parking:

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Indian Rock is an interesting rock formation within the Sam's Point Preserve. The entire area of the northern Shawangunk mountains is full of interesting rock formations and crevices, with a very unique geology. The hike to Indian Rock is fairly easy, and for the most park goes on former old roads so the paths are easy. I parked at the Sam's Point Preserve Parking area (parking here costs $10), and took the western side of the Loop Road up towards Lake Martanza. This old road is no longer accessible to vehicles, and has many dilapidated berry-picker huts on the side of the road. At Lake Martanza there are many large communications towers, which give this hike an eerie feeling, especially on a cloudy day. Continued at the High Point Carriageway for about half a mile until the Indian Rock Trail. The entire first part of the Indian Rock Trail is along boardwalk planks as it traverses above a wetlands bog. The Indian Rock Trail is about half a mile, and once I got the Indian Rock climbed through it and scrambled around. The trail ends here at the rock, so I turned around and followed my steps back to the Loop Road, and then took the eastern part of the Loop Road along Lake Martanza. I veered off on a small bushwack along the shore of Lake Martanza at a sandy area, which I suspect was once a beach where swimming once took place. From there continued along to Sam's Point. Continued from there on the road back to the parking area.

Map of the Route

Boardwalk Planks Along the Marshy Part of the Indian Rock Trail

View on the Approach Towards Indian Rock

Indian Rock

Crevice Underneath Indian Rock

Inside the Crevice in Indian Rock

Continuing Inside the Crevice in Indian Rock

Another View of Indian Rock

Lake Martanza

Signpost Along the Loop Road by the Long Path

View from Sam's Point.
Looking east at some onlookers at the cliff wall.

West Mountain

2011-09-04T21:25:00.008-04:00

Harriman/Bear Mountain State Parks
Rockland and Orange Counties,
New York

Trails:
Anthony Wayne Trail: White Blaze
Fawn Trail: Red Blaze
Timp-Torne Trail: Blue Blaze
Ramapo Dunderberg Trail: Red Blaze
Appalachian Trail: White Blaze
Beechy Bottom Road

Total Time: 2:40 hr
Estimated Distance: 4.4 Miles
Level of Difficulty: Difficult
Level of Recommendation: Highly recommended
Points Of Interest: Good rock scrambles and excellent views

Google Maps of Parking:

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West Mountain is one of my favorites in Harriman. It affords a good climb with some scrambling, with amazing views. This was a hazy, hot and humid September day. We parked in the northernmost section of the Anthony Wayne Rec Area, and took the Anthony Wayne Trail for a short distance, to the Fawn Trail up the hill for a short distance, and then went south on the Timp-Torne Trail. This trail climbs to the top of the mountain with rocky ridges and slopes. The Timp-Torne Trail joins up with the Applachian Trail for some short time, and then splits off near the main summit. After that started the descent on the Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail past the Fire Escape and the Cat's Elbow, and then down all the way to Beechy Bottom Road. Took the Beechy Bottom Road down back to Anthony Wayne.

Map of the Route

Atop West Mountain.
Looking West Towards Black Mountain.

View from the Top. Facing Northwest Towards
the Route 6 Traffic Circle.

Me at the same view.

Facing Northeast Towards Bear Mountain,
Anthony's Nose, and the Hudson River.

View From the Cat's Elbow. Facing South.
It's too Hazy to See Down to Haverstraw and Hi-Tor.

View from Cat's Elbow Facing South Towards Pyngyp Mountain

Timber Rattlesnake We Encountered on the Beechy Bottom Road.

Pine Meadow / Stony Brook After Hurricane Irene

2011-08-31T21:10:00.019-04:00

Harriman State Park
Rockland County,
New York

Trails:
Pine Meadow Trail: Red Blaze
Stony Brook Trail: Orange Blaze
Kakiat Trail: White Blaze
Hillburn Torne Sebago (HTS) Trail: Orange Blaze

Total Time: 1:15 hr
Estimated Distance: 2.5 Miles

Level of Difficulty: Moderate to Slightly Difficult
Level of Interest: Beautiful hike along a roaring brook
Points Of Interest: Deep Scenic Valley after Power Lines, Cascade of Slid Waterfall

Google Maps of Parking:

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Hurricane Irene left a tremedous amount of rain in Harriman as well as significant damage. I took this hike three days after the hurricane to see the water level in the brook and observe the damage caused by the storm. Seven Lakes Drive was closed and apparently the bridge crossing the Ramapo River had been severely damaged by the rivers sheer force. I had to take an alternate route using Washington Ave, where I encountered serveral National Guard Troops helping with the rebuilding efforts. There was a bridge in Sloatsburg that was entirely washed away leaving several homes stranded, and the National Guardsmen were assisting with the reconstruction. Once I got to the hike, I found the Stony brook was roaring, and it was at the highest level I have ever seen it. The first bridge across the Stony Brook (Kakiat Trail) was entirely washed away. The second bridge across the Pine Meadow Brook (Kakiat and Stony Brook Trail) was very damaged and pretty much unusable (this bridge was very recently rebuilt so it was brand new at the time of its destruction). The third bridge across the Pine Meadow Brook (HTS Trail) was entirely washed away.

I parked at the Reeves Meadow Visitor Center off 7 Lakes Drive near Sloatsburg. Hiked the Pine Meadow Trail along the brook to the Stony Brook Trail. I crossed the brook at the broken bridge which was barely usable, but I was able to balance across. Then I went along the the Kakiat Trail past the Cascade of Slid waterfall. The HTS Trail bridge was washed away, so I went just a bit further upstream to cross the brook over the rocks, which turned out to be incredibly challenging due to the high water volume. Once I crossed I took the Pine Meadow Trail back towards the return and back to my car.

Map of the Route.

Kakiat Trail Bridge Washed Away

The Only "Standing" Bridge:
The Bridge of the Kakiat and Stony Brook Trail.
This bridge was new - I think it was built in 2009.

Close up on the only standing bridge.

Cascase of Slid Waterfall. Overflowing.

Location of where the HTS Bridge Once Stood.
There is one pole of the bridge remaining.

National Guardsman in Sloatsburg at Work.

Harriman State Park after Hurricane Irene

2011-08-30T00:27:00.002-04:00

Rockland County,
New York

This was the day after Hurricane Irene. It was a calm and beautiful day, and I wanted to do a hike in Harriman State Park to check the damage in the park. I had tried several routes towards Harriman, but many of the roads were closed due to downed trees, downed power lines, and washed away bridges. I finally got to the entrance at Gate Hill Road, but the park was closed with barricades along the road. I parked the car to investigate, and clearly saw why the park had been closed. Some parts of the road were entirely washed away, other parts had large rocks strewn across the entire surface area, and there were downed trees and power lines all over the place. The park had clearly experienced significant damage, the worst that I can remember. I hiked down to the waterfalls along the Minnesceongo Creek below the road, which were roaring and furious. I was afraid to venture further due to the flooding and downed lines and trees, so cancelled my hiking plans and went back to work. Unfortunately my camera battery had died, so I was forced to take the pictures with my cell phone camera, so the photos are not great and don't do justice.

Willow Grove Road. All Covered with Rocks.

The Minesceongo Creek Waterfall.

Gate Hill Road closed into the park.
Parts of the road up ahead were washed away.

Downed trees and Power Lines on Gate Hill Road.
This was already two days after the storm and there are still live wires!

Part of the road washed away.