Harriman Hiker: Harriman State Park and Beyond

Lake Skanatati and Pine Swamp Mountain Sunset

2026-10-14T17:50:00.000-04:00

Harriman State Park
Orange Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Arden-Surebridge Trail: Red blaze

Total Time: 0:40
Estimated Distance: 1.1 Miles

Pros: Lake view, nice views
Cons: None
Hike Type: Loop
Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/17mi3urTqinzbNZy6

The fall weather has been beautiful. I took this hike right after work to catch the sunset and catch a quick Harriman Hike. I parked at Lake Skanatati and took the former Arden-Surebridge Trail up to the Pine Swamp Mountain view on the former trail. (This trail was rerouted and is no longer blazed). I continued along the former trail past the view until it met with the actual Arden-Surebridge Trail, which I took back down to the trailhead where my car was parked.

Map of the Route

Sunset on Lake Skanatati

Rocks Ascending the Mountain

Ascending Pine Swamp Mountain View

Pine Swamp Mountain Sunset View

Red Cross Trail Trailhead

Steps at the Arden-Surebridge Trailhead

Dusk at Lake Skanatati

Ramapo Reservation Rain Hike

2026-10-11T10:00:00.000-04:00

Ramapo Valley County Reservation
Mahwah,
Bergen Co.
New York

Hiking Trails:
Vista Spur: Yellow/Black blaze
Vista Loop Trail: Yellow blaze
River Connector Trail: Orange/Black blaze
River Loop: Orange blaze

Total Time: 0:55
Estimated Distance: 1.8 Miles

Pros: Scenic lake, waterfalls
Cons: Slippery in rain
Hike Type: Loop
Level of Difficulty: Very easy

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/SGNbXv6gowAaYiGA7

It was a rainy fall day. The rain was supposed to start later in the day, but it came early and it came strong. It was the leftovers of Hurricane Isaias that had affected the Gulf Coast earlier in the weekend. I can prepared with rain gear and an umbrella and stayed mostly dry until the end where the trail was flooded.

I parked in the main parking area for Ramapo Reservation, and took the Vista Spur trail for a short distance across the Ramapo River to the Vista Loop around Scarlet Oak Pond. I looped around the lake on the trail, and continued along the trail to waterfalls. I then turned around and took the River Connector Trail to the River Trail Loop back to the Vista Loop Trail and then back to my car.

Map of the Route

Ramapo River from the Trail Bridge

Scarlet Oak Pond in the Fall

Mountain View on a Rainy Day

Vista Loop Around Scarlet Oak Pond

Bridge Near the Waterfalls

Ramapo Reservation Waterfalls

Flooded River Trail

Ramapo River

Piermont Pier Fall Walk

2026-10-09T15:30:00.000-04:00

Piermont,
Rockland Co.
New York

Hiking Trails:
Piermont Pier

Total Time: 0:50
Estimated Distance: 2.2 Miles

Pros: Scenic River Walk
Cons: Busy area
Hike Type: Reverse Lollipop Loop
Level of Difficulty: Very easy

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/asazjgUZGcQshTwA9

This was more of a walk than a hike. I included it here because of its beautiful scenery and walking path along the Hudson River. It was a really nice fall day, being warm and sunny. I left my office for the weekend on Friday afternoon, and took a detour on my way home to the Piermont Pier to enjoy good walking with pretty river views. I parked in the parking area at the beginning of the pier, and walked up the pier road to the end of pier. I detoured back along the path on the north side of the apartments.

Map of the Route

Piermont Pier Sign

Tallman Mountain and the Piermont Marsh

Marsh Phragmites and the Hudson River

Low Tide Looking Across the Hudson River to Westchester

Strange Statue on the Pier

Tappan Zee Bridge

Tappan Zee Bridge with Hook Mountain in the Background

Piermont Pier

Looking Towards the Palisades and Piermont

Pier Dock Ruins

Hudson River and Irvington

Small Boat in the Hudson River

Hudson River Looking South

Piermont

Fitzgerald Falls

2026-09-29T16:00:00.000-04:00

Appalachian National Scenic Trail Area
Orange Co.
New York

Hiking Trails:
Appalachian Trail (AT): White blaze

Total Time: 0:30
Estimated Distance: 0.7 Miles

Pros: Scenic Waterfalls
Cons: None
Hike Type: Out and back
Level of Difficulty: Easy

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/KyyrWo8C8g3F3ebGA

Hiking Partner:
Yehudah Koblick

We had hiked at the Cat Rocks and Eastern Pinnacles and were in the area, and decided to do another quick hike to Fitzgerald Falls, which is a short walk from the trailhead. We parked at the Lakes Road pullout at by the Appalachian Trail. We took the Appalachian Trail east for a short distance to the falls, and I climbed the steps above the falls. I then turned around and took the same route back.

Map of the Route

Appalachian Trail at the Power Lines

Trout Brook Crossing

Appalachian Trail

Waterfalls Before Fitzgerald Falls

Fitzgerald Falls

Trail Steps Next to the Falls

Brook Above the Falls

Fitzgerald Falls

Prior to the Bridge

Eastern Pinnacles Cat Rocks at Bellvale Mountain

2026-09-29T14:30:00.000-04:00

Appalachian National Scenic Trail Area
Orange Co.
New York

Hiking Trails:
Appalachian Trail (AT): White blaze
Appalachian Trail Spur: Blue blaze

Total Time: 2:00
Estimated Distance: 3.5 Miles

Pros: Rocks formations, great views
Cons: None
Hike Type: Out and back
Level of Difficulty: Slightly Difficult

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/kmWyRsCoiZ5KSmDs9

Hiking Partner:
Yehudah Koblick

This was a nice hike on a beautiful fall day. It had just rained for almost 3 days straight with an early season Noreaster, and the rain had finally cleared and the clouds were dissipating. We parked on Route 17A atop Bellvale Mountain, at the Appalachian Trail, and took the Appalachian Trail. The trail is unremarkable until reaching the Eastern Pinnacles, which affords a phenomenal view facing east and north a top a steep rock face. We continued along the AT, as slopes downwards, until reaching Cat Rocks, which is another interesting formation where the rock juts above the surroundings with a steep drop-off and some interesting crevices. We took the blue-blazed Appalachian Trail Spur around the Cat Rocks for the return route, and then by the Eastern Pinnacles we once again too the blue-blazed Appalachian Trail Spur. We then continued back along the Appalachian Trail back to our car.

Map of the Route

Eastern Pinnacles View

Facing Towards Schunnemunk Mountain

Yehudah Koblick on Eastern Pinnacles

Me at Eastern Pinnacles

Ascending Cat Rocks

Me Atop Cat Rocks

Cat Rocks Crevice

Cat Rocks Bypass

Parker Cabin Mountain White Cross Swamp

2026-09-06T09:45:00.000-04:00

Harriman State Park
Orange Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Victory Trail: Blue blaze
Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail: Red blaze
White Bar Trail: White blaze
White Cross Trail: White blaze

Total Time: 2:20
Estimated Distance: 3.7 Miles

Pros: Great views, quiet and scenic area
Cons: None
Hike Type: Lollipop Loop
Level of Difficulty: Slightly Difficult

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/JUDwDRHorXP9xj329

Hiking Partner:
Yehudah Koblick

This was a beautiful late summer day, and we hiked this very scenic area of Harriman which is one of my favorite local hikes. We parked at the Victory Trailhead on Kanawauke Road, and took the Victory Trail for a short distance to the Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail and climbed up Parker Cabin Mountain. We took pictures at both views and then continued down the scramble down the mountain, and continued down on the White Bar Trail. We then went up the mountain on the White Bar Trail, passing the large swamp, back to the top of Parker Cabin Mountain. We then continued along the same route back to our car.

Map of the Route

Large rock face ascending Parker Cabin Mountain

View at Parker Cabin Mountain, Facing Jackie Jones

View at Parker Cabin Mountain, Facing Lake Sebago

View at the South Facing View at Parker Cabin Mountain

Swamp Adjacent to the White Bar Trail

Ascent Back up Parker Cabin Mountain

Bear Mountain Summit and Southern Approach

2026-08-30T09:45:00.000-04:00

Bear Mountain State Park
Orange Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Appalachian Trail: White blaze
1777 Trail: Red blaze

Total Time: 1:45
Estimated Distance: 2.5 Miles

Pros: Great views, scenic area
Cons: None
Hike Type: 2 Car Point to Point
Level of Difficulty: Difficult

Google Maps of Parking:

Car 1:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/8MwUByJk5JdS7PyQ6

Car 2:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/3T2dd33VZx2aRJVk9

Hiking Partner:
Yehudah Koblick

There are three approaches up Bear Mountain: The eastern approach on the Appalachian Trail, the northern approach on the Major Welch Trail, and the southern approach on the Appalachian Trail. The southern approach is the least popular but also the quietest on a summer weekend.

We parked at the top of the mountain on Perkins Drive at the tower, and climbed the tower for some views (although the windows are smudged.) We then came down the town and took the north on the handicap-friendly trail (now called the "all persons trail".) At the north-facing view of Bear Mountain, we looped around on the trail and continued on the Appalachian Trail to the south facing view over the large rock face.

We then continued on the trail descending down to the old road path, and then crossing Perkins Drive, to the final view on the southern approach, and then took the 1777 Trail after crossing Seven Lakes Drive to our second car.

Map of the Route

View from the Bear Mountain Tower

Bear Mountain Tower

"All Persons Trail"

Summit Rock of Bear Mountain

Forest Fire Area Atop Bear Mountain

Northern-Facing View with the Hudson River & Ft. Montgomery

South Facing View of Bear Mountain

Lower View on the Southern Flank of Bear Mountain

Kennedy Dells Falls

2026-08-28T17:00:00.000-04:00

Kennedy Dells County Park
Rockland Co, NY

Total Time: 0:45
Estimated Distance: 1.8 Miles

Pros: Nice trails in suburban area, nice falls
Cons: None
Hike Type: Loop
Level of Difficulty: Very Easy

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/6TBo37jjLYECWhxRA

This is a nice peaceful walk with a small waterfalls that goes over an old breached dam. I parked at the parking trailhead area at Kennedy Dells, and took the service path to the white-blazed bridle path to the waterfalls area. I went down to the falls, and then took the blue-blazed trail to the service path and back to my car.

Map of the Route

Tree Nursery Sign

Pine Forest

Kennedy Dells Waterfalls

Watkins Glen Gorge Trail

2026-08-17T12:30:00.000-04:00

Watkins Glen State Park
Schuyler Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Glen Trail

Total Time: 1:00
Estimated Distance: 1.5 Miles

Pros: Very scenic natural canyon
Cons: Very busy area
Hike Type: One way hike with Shuttle
Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/TbmojcYfm9D2skmb8

I went on a family trip to Watkins Glen, and we camped at the state campground there. Watkins Glen is a beautiful natural formation with a well-engineered path going through the scenic canyon with waterfalls and steep cliffs on both sides. We parked at the upper falls parking area, and took the Gorge Trail down. As it was the peak of summer vacation season in August, the area was extremely busy with hundreds of people along the trail. We continued down the trail past all the scenic areas including Rainbow Falls, Glen Cathedral, and the Cavern Cascade. At the end of the gorge at the village of Watkins Glen, I took the shuttle back to the top back to my car.

Map of the Route

Descending "Jacob's Ladder" at the Beginning of the Trail. Note the Large Crowd.

View of Glen Creek While Descending

Glen Creek

Waterfalls Along the Trail

Behind the Waterfalls

Rainbow Falls

Behind Rainbow Falls

Narrow Waterfall

Cavern Cascade

Descending the Gorge Trail

The New Sentry Bridge

Last Waterfall in the Gorge

Near the End of the Trail

Sentry Bridge and Watefalls

Dunderberg Spiral Railway and Tunnels

2026-08-09T09:45:00.000-04:00

Bear Mountain State Park
Orange Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail: Red blaze
Jones Trail: Unblazed
Timp-Torne Trail: Blue blaze

Total Time: 3:00
Estimated Distance: 4.2 Miles

Pros: Good climb, great views, historic areas
Cons: None
Hike Type: Loop
Level of Difficulty: Difficult

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/hPpvytjCsH9oq2r79

Hiking Partner:
Yehudah Koblick

It had been a while since I had been to Dunderberg. The weather was hot and humid, and with a good climb almost 1000 feet, the conditions on this hike were very difficult. We hike portions of the Dunderberg Spiral railway, a project that was never completed for a hotel that was never built on the top of the mountain. We parked at the beginning of the Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail and took the trail steeply up the mountain, passing the first railway tunnel, and continuing up the incline to the view.

After the view, which faces directly to the Indian Point nuclear plant, we continued to the summit of Dunderberg, where there is a nice view facing north towards Bear Mountain and the Bear Mountain Bridge. We then continued off the trail on the railway trail, which we intended to take to the Jones Trail, but we went a bit too far and had to turn around back to the Jones Trail. We took the Jones Trail to the Timp-Torne Trail, which we took to the next tunnel and former railway path, and continued along the trail back down the mountain and down to our car.

Map of the Route

Trailhead at Dunderberg

New Map Sign at the Trailhead

Dense Brush and Ivy

The First of the Dunderberg Railway Tunnels

First View Facing Indian Point

Second View Facing Peekskill

Third View at the Summit Facing the Bear Mountain Bridge

Large Glacial Rock Near the Summit

Partial Tunnel

Water in the Tunnel

Dense Vegetation Near the End of the Hike

Mount Tammany Loop

2026-08-02T12:00:00.000-04:00

Delaware Water Gap,
Worthington State Forest
Warren Co, NJ

Hiking Trails:
Red Dot Trail: Red blaze
Pahaquarry Trail: Blue blaze
Blue Dot Trail: Blue blaze
Dunnfield Creek Trail: Green blaze
Appalachian Trail: White blaze

Total Time: 2:50 hour
Estimated Distance: 3.4 Miles

Pros: Excellent climb and view
Cons: Very busy area with many people
Hike Type: Loop
Level of Difficulty: Difficult

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/qiStZYXzV2sfGL8P9

Mt. Tammany had been on my bucket list. I've been there in the past, but had not had a chance to do the full loop. On this trip I had the time for the full loop. One of the biggest challenges of this hike, is the limited parking on weekends as well as how busy the hike is. I was lucky to find a spot. The weather was hot and very humid, making this steep hike difficult. We parked at the Appalachian Trail Parking at the Dunnfield Creek area. I hiked to the Red Dot Trail up the steep climb to the first view.

I then continued up the ridge the main summit view, passing many people along the way. The summit was very busy but afforded a great view. I continued along the Pahaquarry Trail after the view, which was much quitter after the summit. At the intersection of the Blue Dot Trail there is another view, and I took that trail down the mountain. At the intersection with the Dunnfield Creek Trail I continued along the scenic creek, to the Appalachian Trail, and then back to my car.

Map of the Route

Trailhead Signs

First View

Ascending Up the Scramble

View Nearing the Summit

Summit View, Looking Towards Mt. Minsi in PA

Pahaquarry and Blue Dot Trail Quarry Intersection

View at the Pahaquarry and Blue Dot Trail Quarry Intersection

Waterfalls at Dunnfield Creek

Dunnfield Creek

Minisceongo Falls

2026-07-31T16:00:00.000-04:00

Harriman State Park
Rockland Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Minisceongo Falls Trail: Unblazed

Total Time: 0:45 hour
Estimated Distance: 0.7 Miles

Pros: Nice waterfalls
Cons: Trail isn't in great shape
Hike Type: Out and back
Level of Difficulty: Slightly difficult

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/YmNVAZg5MeezyaDk9

It had been a very rainy July, with several big storms leading to lots of water in the streams. I went to Minisceongo Falls as I figured the water level was very high, which made the waterfalls very impressive. This waterfalls is very easy to access but there is no official trail and it's not on any maps, making it a hidden gem at the entrance to Harriman. I parked at the Suffern-Bear Mountain trailhead at the Fire Tower area, and took the unofficial path along the side of the stream down to the falls, and then turned back and went the same way back.

Map of the Route

Upper Falls

Minisceongo Creek

Middle Falls

Above the Main Falls

Main Falls at Minisceongo Falls

Storm King Summer Loop

2026-07-19T10:00:00.000-04:00

Storm King State Park
Orange Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Butter Hill Trail: Orange blaze
Stillman Trail: Yellow blaze
Storm King Bypass Trail: White blaze

Total Time: 2:15 hour
Estimated Distance: 2.4 Miles

Pros: Good climb, good scramble, and good view
Cons: Limited parking
Hike Type: Loop
Level of Difficulty: Difficult

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/V62QDBjYiMwQFUS76

Hiking Partner:
Yehudah Koblick

This was a warm summer day, and we decided to do the loop atop Storm King Mountain. We parked at the Butter Hill Parking area on Route 9W. The parking lot was almost full as it fills up quickly on weekends, but there were still a few spots available. We took the Butter Hill Trail up the scramble, and enjoyed the view. We continued up to the top of Butter Hill, where we took the Stillman Trail atop the ridge to the view facing north to Newburgh at the top of Storm King Proper. We then took the Storm King Bypass Trail down along the south face of the mountain back to our car.

Map of the Route

Information Plaque at the Start of the Hike

Scramble Up Butter Hill

View of Bull Hill on the Ascent

Continuing Up Butter Hill

Butter Hill View of Parking Area

View of Hudson River

Trail Intersection at Buttter Hill

Butter Hill

Fresh Ripe Blueberries

Butter Hill Summit

Storm King Summit

View of the Hudson River and Newburgh

View of the Hudson River and Breakneck Ridge

View of Newburgh

View of Butter Hill from the Bypass Trail

Sterling Mine Sterling Lake Sterling Mountain

2026-07-12T09:45:00.000-04:00

Sterling Forest State Park
Orange Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Sterling Lake Trail: Blue blaze
Lakeville Ironworks Trail: Yellow blaze
Bare Rock Trail: Orange Blaze
Sterling Ridge Trail: Blue blaze

Total Time: 2:20 hour
Estimated Distance: 4.1 Miles

Pros: Historical area, scenic lake, good view
Cons: Fire Tower closed
Hike Type: Out and back
Level of Difficulty: Slightly difficult

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/XMxbhQLFwta365kh8

Hiking Partner:
Yehudah Koblick

I had not been to this area in a while. The intention was to visit the Fire Tower but it turns out the tower was closed for some time now. So instead we opted for the Sterling Ridge view, which was still very good. We parked at the parking lot for the visitor center at Sterling Lake, and took the Lakeville Ironworks Trail through the historical iron mine attractions including the furnace and dumps. We then took the Sterling Lake Trail to the Bare Rock Trail up the mountain. We then took the Sterling Ridge Trail north along the ridge, and took some pictures at the view overlooking the lake. We continued along the ridge a bit more, and then turned around and took the same way down the mountain. We took the Sterling Lake Trail along the scenic south side of Sterling Lake on the way back.

Map of the Route

Sterling Furnace

Lakeville Ghost Town Remaining Home

Sterling Mine from the Lakeville Ironworks Trail

Painter Painting Sterling Lake

Sterling Lake Southern Shore

Me and Yehudah Atop Sterling Mountain

Me at the Sterling Mountain View

Sterling Lake from Sterling Mountain

Sterling Mine Structure

Sterling Lake from the Outlet

Hook Mountain Over Rockland Lake

2026-07-09T18:00:00.000-04:00

Hook Mountain State Park
Rockland Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Long Path: Green blaze

Total Time: 0:45 hour
Estimated Distance: 1.2 Miles

Pros: Good climb, excellent river views
Cons: None
Hike Type: Out and back
Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/CtT9tykhMVaahN1v7

This is a short and sweet hike, with a good climb, great view, and short lollipop loop. I took the opportunity to do this hike after work in the evening at the end of the day. I parked at Rockland Lake Landing at the small trailhead parking area the Long Path, and then took the Long Path up the side of the mountain, snaking up Hook Mountain. I then took the unmarked spur path near the top to the view, which is directly above the large quarry, a sheer rock face dropping vertically several hundred feet with the Hudson River right nearby. I continued along this trail along the ledge where it meets with the Long Path, and took the Long Path back down to my car to conclude the hike.

Map of the Route

Informational Plaque on the site of the Historic Knickerbocker Ice Company

Deer in a Fallen Tree on the Trail

Ascending Hook Mountain on the Long Path

Greenery on the Ascent

Me at the View on Top

Tappan Zee Bridge from Hook Mountain

Hudson River and Ossining

View of Hi Tor and the Northern Palisades

View of Sing Sing Prison in Ossining

View Above the Quarry

Kaaterskill Falls Upper View

2026-06-30T10:30:00.000-04:00

Catskills Park Preserve
Greene Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Kaaterskill Falls Trail

Total Time: 1:15 hour
Estimated Distance: 1.8 Miles

Pros: Famous Waterfall
Cons: Very busy area
Hike Type: Back and out
Level of Difficulty: Easy

Google Maps of Parking:
https://goo.gl/maps/iaZPR65Q3r4Q6Nxr9

Hiking Partner:
Rayzi Friedman

We were staying at North South Lake Campground, and these falls are right nearby. We parked at the upper parking area at the end of Laurel House Road, and took the trail that cuts through the switchback directly over to the Kaaterskill Falls viewing platform. We then walked along the ledge to the top of the falls, and then in Spruce Creek, until the trail bridge crossing Spruce Creek. We then took the trail back to our car.

Map of the Route

Top of Kaaterskill Falls

View Above Kaaterskill Falls

Top of the Falls

Bridge Above Spruce Creek

Sunset Rock at the Catskills

2026-06-29T17:30:00.000-04:00

Catskills Park Preserve
Greene Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Connector Trail: Yellow blaze
Escarpment Trail: Yellow blaze

Total Time: 1:15 hour
Estimated Distance: 1.8 Miles

Pros: Short and sweet hike with excellent views and crevice scramble
Cons: None
Hike Type: Back and out
Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/y7AMtKNXW2U3NbL9A

Hiking Partner:
Rayzi Friedman

I had gone to North South Lake on an overnight camping trip, and while camping we did this short but incredible hike. We got in later in the day and after setting up the tent in the late afternoon we didn't have time for a longer hike. We parked at the North Lake Beach, and took the Escarpment Trail north along the ridge, passing Artist's Rock, and then heading up to Sunset Rock. We took the narrow crevice up to the top for an amazing Catskills view. We then the Escarpment Trail back down towards North Lake.

Map of the Route

Signage at the Head of the Trail

Blooming Mountain Laurels

Cliff Ledge with Overhang

Interesting Rock Formations

Tree Overhanging at Artist's Rock

View from the Escarpment from Artist's Rock

Approaching the Crevice at Sunset Rock

In the Crevice at Sunset Rock

North South Lake from Sunset Rock

Back to Artist Rock on the Return

Pine Swamp Mine Loop

2026-06-28T21:45:00.000-04:00

Harriman State Park
Orange Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Arden-Surebridge Trail: Red blaze
Dunning Trail: Yellow blaze
Long Path: Green blaze

Total Time: 1:50 hour
Estimated Distance: 3.3 Miles

Pros: Nice view, historic mine, scenic lake
Cons: None
Hike Type: Loop
Level of Difficulty: Difficult

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/dzohiYwYQRNbCtyd8

Hiking Partner:
Yehudah Koblick

The Pine Swamp Mine is a very large hole like a cave that you can go all the way into. It's a great place for a historical understanding of Harriman State Park and its mining history. We parked at the Lake Skanatati and took the Arden-Surebridge Trail up, and then we took the old trail up the scramble to the Pine Swamp Mountain view (no longer on the trail and since rerouted.)

We then went back to the Arden-Surebridge Trail to Dunning Trail at the the Pine Swamp Mine, which is a complex of many pits and dumps, including a very large hole that we went all the way into. There is a path up the hill by the dumps that goes to the complex. We then continued along the Dunning Trail to the Long Path, which we took back to our car.

Lake Skanatati from the Parking Lot

Pine Swamp Mountain View

Pine Swamp Mine Pit

Pine Swamp Mine Big Hole

Inside the Pine Swamp Mine

Pine Swamp

Claudius Smith Den and Elbow Brush to Daters Mountain

2026-06-21T09:45:00.000-04:00

Harriman State Park
Orange Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail: Red blaze
Tuxedo-Mt. Ivy Trail: Red blaze
Blue Disc Trail: Blue blaze

Total Time: 2:15
Estimated Distance: 3.5 Miles

Pros: Historic rock formations, nice views, good scrambles

Cons: None
Hike Type: 2 Car
Level of Difficulty: Difficult

Google Maps of Parking:
Car 1: https://maps.app.goo.gl/C7xECYTt63xqCmMi8
Car 2: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xyjicGocA9xgZKRo9

Hiking Partner:
Yehudah Koblick

This is a two car hike passing through some very scenic areas of Harriman State Park. We parked the first car near the Ramapo-Dunderberg Trailhead near the Thruway overpass on E. Village Road in Tuxedo. We took the Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail up to the Tuxedo village view. We then continued on the Tuxedo-Mt. Ivy Trail to Claudius Smith Den, exploring the cave and rock formation and then the view on top.

We then continued to the Blue Disc Trail, which took us to the Elbow Brush, another interesting cave formation and rock tunnel. We then took this to Daters Mountain by Almost Perpendicular, and then continued along the Blue Disc Trail back to our car.

Map of the Route

Trailhead Map Kiosk

Smith Rock View over Tuxedo NY

Approaching the Claudius Smith Den Formation

Claudius Smith Den Cave Crevice

Top of Claudius Smith Den View

Elbow Brush Rock Crevice on the Blue Disc Trail

Daters Mountain View Above "Almost Perpendicular"

Buttermilk Falls and View

2026-06-14T23:07:00.000-04:00

Buttermilk Falls County Park
Rockland Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Buttermilk Falls Trail: Blue blaze
White Trail: White blaze

Total Time: 1:00 hour
Estimated Distance: 1.1 Miles

Pros: Good climb, good view
Cons: Waterfalls was dry
Hike Type: Loop
Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZNsASx7U57oRQqVh8

The weather was very hot and I opted for a shorter than usual hike. I parked at the Buttermilk Falls Trailhead parking and took the trail up to the falls. The falls was mostly dry due to the hot conditions and little rain. I walked past the falls and then continued to the view which overlooks the southern part of Rockland County. In then continued down the trail to the White Trail, which I took back down to the trailhead parking.

Map of the Route

Dried Waterfalls at Buttermilk Falls

Top of the Falls

View from the Top

Stairs at the Bottom of the White Trail

Lemon Squeezer and Island Pond Spring Hike

2026-06-07T14:30:00.000-04:00

Harriman State Park
Orange Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Island Pond Road: Unblazed
Appalachian Trail: White blaze

Total Time: 1:30
Estimated Distance: 2.0 Miles

Pros: Interesting rock formation, nice view, nice lake
Cons: Overgrown path on Island Pond Road
Hike Type: Out and back
Level of Difficulty: Slightly difficult

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZNsASx7U57oRQqVh8

I was in Monroe NY for a mineral show earlier in the day, and this was a good hike to do on my way home. I parked on Island Pond Road near the Crooked Road path, and took the Crooked Road south to the Appalachian Trail. (The Crooked Road Trail was somewhat overgrown with lots of brush, and I found a tick on me when I checked myself after the hike.)

I took the Appalachian Trail to the Lemon Squeezer, and then continued up the mountain and took a short bushwhack to the Island Pond View (not on the map.) I then turned around and went back through the Lemon Squeezer, and then instead of going back the same route, first took a detour to the shore of Island Pond. I then turned around and went back on Crooked Road back to the car.

Map of the Route

Island Pond

Sign About Hunting in Harriman

Entrance to the Lemon Squeezer

Lemon Squeezer

Lemon Squeezer Area Rock Formations

Island Pond Mountain

Island Pond Mountain View

Descending the Lemon Squeezer on the Bypass Trail

Approaching Island Pond

Island Pond Shore

Wyanokie High Point Spring Hike

2026-05-31T09:45:00.000-04:00

Norvin Green State Forest
Passaic Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Otter Hole Trail: Green blaze
Macopin Trail: (Formerly) White blaze
Hewitt-Butler Trail: Blue blaze

Total Time: 2:00 Hours
Estimated Distance: 3.4 Miles

Pros: Excellent views and good climb
Cons: Confusing Trail rerouting
Hike Type: Lollipop Loop
Level of Difficulty: Difficult

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/HLpFnVoYFZBdf4sd6

Wyanokie High Point is one of my favorite hikes in the area. It features a good climb with a great 360 degree view. However, there was a lot of trail rerouting going on which left me confused. I parked at the Weis Center, and noticed the Otter Hole Trail was rerouted out of the Weis Center area to the road. I continued on the Otter Hole Trail, to the Macopin Trail. This trail used to have a white blaze but it was missing the blazes perhaps for a future new color to route it as a loop trail.

I continued to the end of the trail at the ridge on Wyanokie High Point, and then took the Hewitt-Butler Trail up and then climbed the rocky portion to the summit of Wyanokie High Point, which offered a sweeping view on this beautiful day. I then turned around and took the Hewitt-Butler Trail down the mountain to the Otter Hole Trail which I took back to my car.

Map of the Route

Trail Information

Macopin Trail Marker Blocked Out

Flowering Mountain Laurels

End of the Macopin Trail

Glacial Rock on the Wyanokie Ridge

View on the Wyanokie Ridge

Ascending to the Top of Wyanokie High Point

Wyanokie High Point View

Wanaque Reservoir and Manhattan Skyline in the Distance

View at the West Side of Wyanokie High Point

Bridge Across the View

Hi Point Labelled Rock

Map of the Ongoing Reroute

Agony Grind to Sapphire Trail

2026-05-25T16:00:00.000-04:00

Harriman State Park / Appalachian Trail National Corridor
Orange Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Appalachian Trail: White blaze

Total Time: 1:30
Estimated Distance: 2.0 Miles

Pros: Scenic area, good climb, and good view
Cons: Walk on road from Elk Pen
Hike Type: Out and back
Level of Difficulty: Slightly difficult

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/LD3wYs1bnUi4mwtF9

Hiking Partner:
Zev Koblick

We parked at the Elk Pen and took the Appalachian Trail westward bound up the steep path past the Agony Grind, a steep incline from Route 17 up to a nice view of Western Harriman. The trail is currently being upgraded with organized rock steps. They are about halfway done. At the view we continued along the Appalachian Trail to the Sapphire Trail, and then turned around and returned along the same route.

Map of the Route

Elk Pen Hikers Lot on Arden Valley Road

Harriman Welcome

View at the Start of the Hike

Appalachian Trail

Ascending the Agony Grind

Trail Work at the Agony Grind

First View Ascending

View above the Agony Grind

Elk Pen from the Agony Grind

Sapphire Trail

Great Falls of the Passaic River

2026-05-24T11:45:00.000-04:00

National Historical Park
Paterson
Passaic Co, NJ

Total Time: 0:45
Estimated Distance: 1.5 Miles

Pros: Significant, historical waterfall
Cons: Urban area in rough neighborhood
Hike Type: Figure 8 Loop
Level of Difficulty: Easy

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/91zRqkivVTFpYCAi9

The Great Falls of the Passaic River is the one of the largest waterfalls by volume in the Eastern United States. However, it is situated in the middle of a run down area within a city, and its view is somewhat obstructed by the orientation of the falls. Despite that, it's still very worthwhile to visit as you can feel the share power of the falls.

I parked in the main parking area for the falls, and took the walking trail north of the falls so some old historical warehouses and ruins, including the abandoned Colt (think handguns) factory. I then headed back and past the ampitheater and went on the stairs path to Spruce Street, and then crossed the bridge over the falls to Mary Ellen Kramer Park. I then took the path by Ryle Road down to the Passaic River by the falls. I then turned around and took the route back to my car.

Map of the Route

Falls from the Overlook

Rock Wall South of the Falls

Colt Factory Site

Waterfalls with the Pump House

View from the Top of the Falls

Mary Ellen Kramer Great Falls Park

Passaic River

Top of Falls from the Park

National Historical Park

Reeves Brook to Chipmunk Mountain

2026-05-17T09:45:00.000-04:00

Harriman State Park,
Rockland Co, NY

Hiking Trails:
Reeves Brook Trail: Orange blaze
Seven Hills Trail: Blue blaze
Hillburn-Torne Sebago (HTS) Trail: Orange blaze
Pine Meadow Trail: Red blaze

Total Time: 2:20
Estimated Distance: 3.7 Miles

Pros: Scenic loop, good scramble, and good views
Cons: Very busy at Pine Meadow Trail during weekend
Hike Type: Loop
Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/KkhtTwdowZzihwcf8

Hiking Partner:
Yehudah Koblick

This was the first hot-weather hike of the season. We parked at Reeves Meadow in Harriman and took the Reeves Brook Trail. The area is very busy at the start of the hike, but gets very quiet as soon as you reach the Reeves Brook Trail. We took the Reeves Brook Trail steadily up, until reaching the Seven Hills Trail, which has a steep scramble up to a great view. We then ascended up to Chipmunk Mountain, where there is another great view, and took the HTS Trail down to the Pine Meadow Trail which we took back to the beginning of the trail.

Map of the Route

Large Rock on the Reeves Brook Trail

Scramble Up the Seven Hills Trail

Great View Above the Scramble

View at the Chimpmunk Mountain View