Join the New York Ramblers hiking club and discover some of the most delightful hiking trails in the greater New York City area. Our weekly hikes (listed down below) are usually:
- Sundays (or Saturdays)
- about 14-18 miles in 7-8 hours
- accessible by public transportation
- within 50 miles of NYC
For additional details, go to our About page.
For Serious Hikers
You MUST be an experienced hiker in good physical shape, with proper gear, and able to hike at a moderate to fast pace for 7-8 hours. Haven’t hiked with us before? No worries–come along as a guest and see what it’s like.
- Find a hike below
- Contact the hike leader
• tell leader about your hiking experience
• ask about how difficult the hike is
• find out when and where to meet - Meet us at the designated place
NYC subways are not as frequent on early Sunday mornings—allow extra time to get to the meeting place.
Hikes are free (thank you volunteer hike leaders!) After coming along on two hikes, send in the application form for membership. (Annual dues are $6 per year, plus $1 initial fee.) Some leaders may limit the number of guests on their hike.
Sorry, but our hikes are not for everyone. We hike at a moderate to fast pace. We hike all day long, often on rugged terrain. We have a lot of experience. If this isn’t you, please consider one of these groups that offer shorter distances and easier hikes:
- Shorewalkers
- Shorewalkers Meetup
- Appalachian Mountain Club
- Outdoors Club
- Westchester Trails Association
- NY-NJ Trail Conference
- Meetup
Follow the New York Ramblers on Instagram and Facebook.
* * *
Hiking involves certain inherent risks; hikers participating do so at their own risk.
When you participate in activities listed in the Schedule, you should be both physically and mentally prepared and equipped with the appropriate gear. The hike leader is not responsible for your safety, you are. There is no age limit; however, those who bring children must assume full responsibility for their safety and conduct at all times. The hike leader has the authority to turn away anyone who is not adequately prepared. Hikes don’t always finish at the expected time.
* * *
>> Hike Calendar
Sun. June 4.
HIGHLANDS PRESERVE AND CASCADE LAKE PARK.
(New Jersey)
From Warwick Turnpike #197 bus stop enter Highlands Preserve and hike trails therein. Exit, join the Bearfort Ridge Spur and use the Bearfort Ridge Loop westward to meet Ernest Walter Trail. Continue counter clockwise on EW to State Line Trail after a break at Surprise Lake. Use SL to Appalachian Trail which hike westward. Enter Cascade Lake Park on a woods road to hike unblazed trails therein. Exit CLP on the Zig Zag Trail to join AT, which hike northbound to Village Vista Trail, and bus in Greenwood Lake. NY-NJTC Maps 152, 100.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by bus–contact leader for details.
Leader: Ingrid
HIGHLANDS PRESERVE AND CASCADE LAKE PARK.
(New Jersey)
From Warwick Turnpike #197 bus stop enter Highlands Preserve and hike trails therein. Exit, join the Bearfort Ridge Spur and use the Bearfort Ridge Loop westward to meet Ernest Walter Trail. Continue counter clockwise on EW to State Line Trail after a break at Surprise Lake. Use SL to Appalachian Trail which hike westward. Enter Cascade Lake Park on a woods road to hike unblazed trails therein. Exit CLP on the Zig Zag Trail to join AT, which hike northbound to Village Vista Trail, and bus in Greenwood Lake. NY-NJTC Maps 152, 100.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by bus–contact leader for details.
Leader: Ingrid
Sun. June 11.
MONMOUTH COUNTY: MIDDLETOWN TO ABERDEEN.
(New Jersey)
From Middletown station use local roads to Deep Cut Gardens and explore within. Cross street to Tatum Park and explore its trails, including Holly Grove and Tatum Ramble. Exit Park and continue north and west via parkland and suburban streets to Neil Waackaak Preserve, Allocco Park and Natco Park to Rte. 36 in Union Beach. Follow shore of Natco Lake to Henry Hudson Trail and then out to Raritan Bay. Return to HHT (paved with grass shoulder) and follow west to its terminus in Aberdeen.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by train–contact leader for details.
Leader: Chris
MONMOUTH COUNTY: MIDDLETOWN TO ABERDEEN.
(New Jersey)
From Middletown station use local roads to Deep Cut Gardens and explore within. Cross street to Tatum Park and explore its trails, including Holly Grove and Tatum Ramble. Exit Park and continue north and west via parkland and suburban streets to Neil Waackaak Preserve, Allocco Park and Natco Park to Rte. 36 in Union Beach. Follow shore of Natco Lake to Henry Hudson Trail and then out to Raritan Bay. Return to HHT (paved with grass shoulder) and follow west to its terminus in Aberdeen.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by train–contact leader for details.
Leader: Chris
Sun. June 18.
DORIS DUKE FOREST SANCTUARY.
(Sterling Forest)
From Rt. 17A, follow Appalachian Trail northbound, rollercoaster over Eastern Pinnacles, Cat Rocks, and Fitzgerald Falls. Side trip to Allis Trail, onto Doris Duke Trail. Return to AT and continue over Mombasha High Point, Buchanan and Arden mountains. Exit to Harriman train station via Sapphire Trail. NY-NJTC map #100.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by bus–contact leaders for details.
Leader: Lee; Rachida; Simon
DORIS DUKE FOREST SANCTUARY.
(Sterling Forest)
From Rt. 17A, follow Appalachian Trail northbound, rollercoaster over Eastern Pinnacles, Cat Rocks, and Fitzgerald Falls. Side trip to Allis Trail, onto Doris Duke Trail. Return to AT and continue over Mombasha High Point, Buchanan and Arden mountains. Exit to Harriman train station via Sapphire Trail. NY-NJTC map #100.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by bus–contact leaders for details.
Leader: Lee; Rachida; Simon
Sat. June 24.
63RD SEMI-ANNUAL SUPERHIKE: GIANT STAIRS SCRAMBLE.
(Palisades Interstate Park)
(Note: this is a Saturday hike.)
Follow local streets through Closter, pass through Camp Alpine via Ruckman Trail exiting on Ruckman Road. After a brief jog on Rte. 9W enter the Palisades on Forest View Trail proceeding towards the Long Path. Head north on the Long Path turning onto the Shore Trail passing the ruins. Head south on the Shore Trail scrambling over the Giant Stairs. Continue to the Shore Trail’s terminus, returning over the George Washington Bridge to the GW Bridge Bus Terminal.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
• 23+ miles
• Bring 3 liters of water
Accessible by bus–contact leader for details.
Leader: Todd; Gloria
63RD SEMI-ANNUAL SUPERHIKE: GIANT STAIRS SCRAMBLE.
(Palisades Interstate Park)
(Note: this is a Saturday hike.)
Follow local streets through Closter, pass through Camp Alpine via Ruckman Trail exiting on Ruckman Road. After a brief jog on Rte. 9W enter the Palisades on Forest View Trail proceeding towards the Long Path. Head north on the Long Path turning onto the Shore Trail passing the ruins. Head south on the Shore Trail scrambling over the Giant Stairs. Continue to the Shore Trail’s terminus, returning over the George Washington Bridge to the GW Bridge Bus Terminal.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
• 23+ miles
• Bring 3 liters of water
Accessible by bus–contact leader for details.
Leader: Todd; Gloria
Sun. June 25. No Sunday hike.
>> July
Sun. July 2.
BEACON RESERVOIR AND THE FIRE TOWER.
(East Hudson Highlands)
From Breakneck Ridge station hike Wilkinson Memorial Trail to the Breakneck Bypass, which use to the Breakneck Ridge Trail. Continue on BRT over Sth. Beacon Mtn. and Fire Tower, before a jog on the Casino Trail and woods road to Beacon Reservoir. Continue on unmarked trail returning to WM, and via Blue connector join Fishkill Ridge Trail to Bald Hill. Use unmarked trails to descend to the Overlook Trail, rejoin the FR, which use to the Yellow Trail, then rejoin the CT. Ascend to Incline Railway Powerhouse. Out to Beacon on unmarked trails ending at Rte. 9D (Walcott Avenue) and local streets. NY-NJTC Map 102.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by train–contact leader for details.
Leader: Felix
BEACON RESERVOIR AND THE FIRE TOWER.
(East Hudson Highlands)
From Breakneck Ridge station hike Wilkinson Memorial Trail to the Breakneck Bypass, which use to the Breakneck Ridge Trail. Continue on BRT over Sth. Beacon Mtn. and Fire Tower, before a jog on the Casino Trail and woods road to Beacon Reservoir. Continue on unmarked trail returning to WM, and via Blue connector join Fishkill Ridge Trail to Bald Hill. Use unmarked trails to descend to the Overlook Trail, rejoin the FR, which use to the Yellow Trail, then rejoin the CT. Ascend to Incline Railway Powerhouse. Out to Beacon on unmarked trails ending at Rte. 9D (Walcott Avenue) and local streets. NY-NJTC Map 102.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by train–contact leader for details.
Leader: Felix
Sun. July 9.
TRAILS IN AND NEAR ROCKEFELLER PRESERVE.
(Westchester)
From Scarborough station walk along River Road to join Old Croton Aqueduct; enter Rockwood Hall area, then Rockefeller Preserve, to hike various trails therein. The hike will include the Aqueduct area, the Stone Bridges, the Union Church, and the start of the Buttermilk area before returning to OCA. Out to Tarrytown via Sleepy Hollow and local streets. NY-NJTC map 130.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by train–contact leader for details.
Leader: Bob; Michelle
TRAILS IN AND NEAR ROCKEFELLER PRESERVE.
(Westchester)
From Scarborough station walk along River Road to join Old Croton Aqueduct; enter Rockwood Hall area, then Rockefeller Preserve, to hike various trails therein. The hike will include the Aqueduct area, the Stone Bridges, the Union Church, and the start of the Buttermilk area before returning to OCA. Out to Tarrytown via Sleepy Hollow and local streets. NY-NJTC map 130.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by train–contact leader for details.
Leader: Bob; Michelle
Sun. July 16.
ISLAND POND DIVERSION.
(Harriman State Park)
From Harriman station, take Sapphire Trail to the Appalachian Trail. Follow AT across I 87 to meet Island Pond Road, which use to Dunning Trail (with detour to Island Pond), passing the site of the “original” William Brien Memorial Shelter (1957-1973). (Brien was the first NY Ramblers president.) Follow DT to Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail over Bald Rocks, then jog west on Nurian Trail to White Bar Trail, which follow back to RD and exit to Tuxedo station. NY-NJTC maps 119, 118.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by bus–contact leader for details.
Leader: Keren
ISLAND POND DIVERSION.
(Harriman State Park)
From Harriman station, take Sapphire Trail to the Appalachian Trail. Follow AT across I 87 to meet Island Pond Road, which use to Dunning Trail (with detour to Island Pond), passing the site of the “original” William Brien Memorial Shelter (1957-1973). (Brien was the first NY Ramblers president.) Follow DT to Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail over Bald Rocks, then jog west on Nurian Trail to White Bar Trail, which follow back to RD and exit to Tuxedo station. NY-NJTC maps 119, 118.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by bus–contact leader for details.
Leader: Keren
Sat. July 22.
FIRE ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE.
(Long Island)
(Note: this is a Saturday hike.)
From Watch Hill hike beaches and boardwalks to Davis Park, Pines, and Cherry Grove, with possible visit to Sailors Haven, Sunken Forest. Return to Watch Hill. Swimming breaks en route.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
• Rain cancels
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
• Round-trip ticket package $35
Accessible by train and ferry–contact leader for details.
Leader: Lee; Ryan
FIRE ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE.
(Long Island)
(Note: this is a Saturday hike.)
From Watch Hill hike beaches and boardwalks to Davis Park, Pines, and Cherry Grove, with possible visit to Sailors Haven, Sunken Forest. Return to Watch Hill. Swimming breaks en route.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
• Rain cancels
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
• Round-trip ticket package $35
Accessible by train and ferry–contact leader for details.
Leader: Lee; Ryan
Sun. July 23. No Sunday hike.
Sun. July 30.
WILLIAM BRIEN MEMORIAL SHELTER.
(Harriman State Park)
From Tomkins Cove use local roads to the 1779 trail. Follow the 1779 trail to the Red Cross Trail, then RC to Menomine trail, then MT to the William Brien Memorial Shelter (formerly the Letterrock Shelter). Brief discussion about William Brien, the first President of the New York Ramblers, and the Shelter. Then (mostly) use the Appalachian Trail Maine-bound to (and over) the Bear Mountain Bridge and finally local roads to Manitou station. En route enjoy views from Black and West Mountains. NY-NJTC map 119.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by bus–contact leader for details.
Leader: Ian
WILLIAM BRIEN MEMORIAL SHELTER.
(Harriman State Park)
From Tomkins Cove use local roads to the 1779 trail. Follow the 1779 trail to the Red Cross Trail, then RC to Menomine trail, then MT to the William Brien Memorial Shelter (formerly the Letterrock Shelter). Brief discussion about William Brien, the first President of the New York Ramblers, and the Shelter. Then (mostly) use the Appalachian Trail Maine-bound to (and over) the Bear Mountain Bridge and finally local roads to Manitou station. En route enjoy views from Black and West Mountains. NY-NJTC map 119.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by bus–contact leader for details.
Leader: Ian
>> August
Sun. Aug. 6.
BEECH TRAIL.
(Harriman State Park)
From Ladentown bus stop proceed via Diltzes Lane to Tuxedo-Mt. Ivy Trail. Use Red Arrow connector to Suffern Bear Mountain Trail. Soon turn onto Woodtown Road and follow to Second Reservoir, then turning onto woods road hike to Big Hill shelter. Proceed on Long Path to the Beech Trail, which hike in its entirety. Join Red Cross Trail, which hike to its eastern terminus. Exit to Bear Mtn. Inn via Timp Pass, Timp Pass Road, Pleasant Valley Road, and 1777 E Trail. NY-NJTC maps 118, 119.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by bus–contact leaders for details.
Leader: Turi; Kirsten
BEECH TRAIL.
(Harriman State Park)
From Ladentown bus stop proceed via Diltzes Lane to Tuxedo-Mt. Ivy Trail. Use Red Arrow connector to Suffern Bear Mountain Trail. Soon turn onto Woodtown Road and follow to Second Reservoir, then turning onto woods road hike to Big Hill shelter. Proceed on Long Path to the Beech Trail, which hike in its entirety. Join Red Cross Trail, which hike to its eastern terminus. Exit to Bear Mtn. Inn via Timp Pass, Timp Pass Road, Pleasant Valley Road, and 1777 E Trail. NY-NJTC maps 118, 119.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by bus–contact leaders for details.
Leader: Turi; Kirsten
Sun. Aug. 13.
GATEWAY NATIONAL RECREATION AREA.
(New Jersey)
From the train station use the Henry Hudson Trail crossing the Sandy Hook bridge; proceed to the beach for a swim. If time permits explore Fort Hancock. (Ferry tickets MUST be purchased online only in advance.)
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
• Approximately 24 miles, flat paved surface
• Bring 3 liters of water
Accessible by train, return via ferry–contact leader for details.
Leader: Todd; Gloria
GATEWAY NATIONAL RECREATION AREA.
(New Jersey)
From the train station use the Henry Hudson Trail crossing the Sandy Hook bridge; proceed to the beach for a swim. If time permits explore Fort Hancock. (Ferry tickets MUST be purchased online only in advance.)
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
• Approximately 24 miles, flat paved surface
• Bring 3 liters of water
Accessible by train, return via ferry–contact leader for details.
Leader: Todd; Gloria
Sun. Aug. 20.
LAKE WANOKSINK.
(Harriman State Park)
Legacy hike led by Franz and Annice on July 23, 1995.
From Tuxedo, take Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail to Victory and Triangle trails, thence to Dutch Doctor Shelter. Continue via Tuxedo-Mount Ivy Trail to Woodtown Road West (with short side trip to Monitor Rock), which use to Lake Wanoksink, then Pine Meadow Road West to Pine Meadow Lake. Out to Suffern train station via Pine Meadow, Conklin’s Crossing, and Suffern-Bear Mountain trails. NY-NJTC map #118.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by train–contact leader for details.
Leader: Lee; Jessica
LAKE WANOKSINK.
(Harriman State Park)
Legacy hike led by Franz and Annice on July 23, 1995.
From Tuxedo, take Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail to Victory and Triangle trails, thence to Dutch Doctor Shelter. Continue via Tuxedo-Mount Ivy Trail to Woodtown Road West (with short side trip to Monitor Rock), which use to Lake Wanoksink, then Pine Meadow Road West to Pine Meadow Lake. Out to Suffern train station via Pine Meadow, Conklin’s Crossing, and Suffern-Bear Mountain trails. NY-NJTC map #118.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by train–contact leader for details.
Leader: Lee; Jessica
Sun. Aug. 27.
BIG HILL.
(Harriman State Park)
From Ladentown bus stop proceed via Diltzes Lane to Tuxedo-Mt. Ivy Trail. Use Red Arrow connector to Suffern Bear Mountain Trail, and hike to Big Hill. Then use the Long Path to Dunning Trail, thence Ramapo-Dunderberg, Nurian, White Bar, and Triangle trails. Out to Tuxedo on TT and RD. NY-NJTC Map 118.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by bus–contact leader for details.
Leader: Leah
BIG HILL.
(Harriman State Park)
From Ladentown bus stop proceed via Diltzes Lane to Tuxedo-Mt. Ivy Trail. Use Red Arrow connector to Suffern Bear Mountain Trail, and hike to Big Hill. Then use the Long Path to Dunning Trail, thence Ramapo-Dunderberg, Nurian, White Bar, and Triangle trails. Out to Tuxedo on TT and RD. NY-NJTC Map 118.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
• Bring 2-3 liters of water
Accessible by bus–contact leader for details.
Leader: Leah
>> September
Sun. Sep. 3.
THE GRAND RAILROAD TERMINALS OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK (2023 VERSION).
(Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn))
Visit various railroad terminals that played an important part in the early 20th Century history of New York City, and the newest terminals of the 21st Century. Explore the OCULUS Terminal (PATH at WTC), the new Amtrak station and renovated Penn Station via the High Line. Then explore the new LIRR and Grand Central Madison Terminal and the Metro-North Grand Central Terminal. From GC cross the 59th Street bridge to Long Island City and the LIRR Terminal. Then traverse Greenpoint to the waterfront and continue to downtown Brooklyn and the LIRR Atlantic Avenue Terminal.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
Accessible by subway–contact leader for details.
Leader: Dennis
Home: 212-925-2739
THE GRAND RAILROAD TERMINALS OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK (2023 VERSION).
(Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn))
Visit various railroad terminals that played an important part in the early 20th Century history of New York City, and the newest terminals of the 21st Century. Explore the OCULUS Terminal (PATH at WTC), the new Amtrak station and renovated Penn Station via the High Line. Then explore the new LIRR and Grand Central Madison Terminal and the Metro-North Grand Central Terminal. From GC cross the 59th Street bridge to Long Island City and the LIRR Terminal. Then traverse Greenpoint to the waterfront and continue to downtown Brooklyn and the LIRR Atlantic Avenue Terminal.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
Accessible by subway–contact leader for details.
Leader: Dennis
Home: 212-925-2739
Sun. Sep. 10.
SLOATSBURG TO TUXEDO.
(Harriman State Park)
Legacy hike led by Mat on February 26, 1939, which read, ‘Down Kelly Slide, up and over Perpendicular to Dutch Doctors Shelter, along Lake Sebago to Tom Jones Shelter for lunch, Return via R.D. trail to Tuxedo. Strenuous 10 miles. BRING CANTEEN. Meet: Chambers St. Ferry to make 9 A. M. Boat.’
The modern version is virtually identical: From Sloatsburg station, use local streets to ascend Dater Mtn. trails, and via jog on Kakiat Trail reach Almost Perpendicular on the Blue Disc Trail. Continue on BD to Tuxedo Mt-Ivy Trail; join White Bar Trail, pass Dutch Dr. shelter, then use Triangle Trail to Sebago lakeside, and woods roads along lakeside to Victory Trail and Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail to Tom Jones Shelter (Lunch!!). Out to Tuxedo on RD. NY-NJTC Map 118.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
Accessible by train–contact leader for details.
Leader: Lilian
SLOATSBURG TO TUXEDO.
(Harriman State Park)
Legacy hike led by Mat on February 26, 1939, which read, ‘Down Kelly Slide, up and over Perpendicular to Dutch Doctors Shelter, along Lake Sebago to Tom Jones Shelter for lunch, Return via R.D. trail to Tuxedo. Strenuous 10 miles. BRING CANTEEN. Meet: Chambers St. Ferry to make 9 A. M. Boat.’
The modern version is virtually identical: From Sloatsburg station, use local streets to ascend Dater Mtn. trails, and via jog on Kakiat Trail reach Almost Perpendicular on the Blue Disc Trail. Continue on BD to Tuxedo Mt-Ivy Trail; join White Bar Trail, pass Dutch Dr. shelter, then use Triangle Trail to Sebago lakeside, and woods roads along lakeside to Victory Trail and Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail to Tom Jones Shelter (Lunch!!). Out to Tuxedo on RD. NY-NJTC Map 118.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
Accessible by train–contact leader for details.
Leader: Lilian
Sat. Sep. 16.
U.S. MILITARY ACADEMY WEST POINT: A CIRCULAR.
(West Point, Harriman State Park)
(Note: this is a Saturday hike.)
A Long Path circular starting from Woodbury Commons outlets. Head north in Central Valley on Rte. 32 to Smith Clove Road, which follow to gatehouse at trailhead of LP at West Point border, which enter and via LP seasonal trail ascend Florence Mountain and cross OP Charlie Rd.; re-enter Harriman Park and follow LP south to cross Long Mountain Parkway, and use Reynolds Road to Summit Lake and Reynolds Pond. Recross Long Mountain Parkway and use old Rte. 6, that is, LP, to Estrada Road. Out to Woodbury Commons. NY-NJTC Map 119.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
Accessible by bus–contact leader for details.
Leader: Ludwig
Home: 929-471-7260
U.S. MILITARY ACADEMY WEST POINT: A CIRCULAR.
(West Point, Harriman State Park)
(Note: this is a Saturday hike.)
A Long Path circular starting from Woodbury Commons outlets. Head north in Central Valley on Rte. 32 to Smith Clove Road, which follow to gatehouse at trailhead of LP at West Point border, which enter and via LP seasonal trail ascend Florence Mountain and cross OP Charlie Rd.; re-enter Harriman Park and follow LP south to cross Long Mountain Parkway, and use Reynolds Road to Summit Lake and Reynolds Pond. Recross Long Mountain Parkway and use old Rte. 6, that is, LP, to Estrada Road. Out to Woodbury Commons. NY-NJTC Map 119.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
Accessible by bus–contact leader for details.
Leader: Ludwig
Home: 929-471-7260
Sun. Sep. 17.
JOCKEY HOLLOW: BERNARDSVILLE TO MORRISTOWN.
(New Jersey)
Legacy hike led by Don on July 5, 2015.
From Bernardsville station use local streets to connect to southern spur of the Patriots’ Path. Follow PP through Jockey Hollow (Morristown National Historic Park) and Lewis Morris County Park, and join PP main section at Whippany River. Continue on PP to Morristown, passing Speedwell Lake.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
Accessible by train–contact leader for details.
JOCKEY HOLLOW: BERNARDSVILLE TO MORRISTOWN.
(New Jersey)
Legacy hike led by Don on July 5, 2015.
From Bernardsville station use local streets to connect to southern spur of the Patriots’ Path. Follow PP through Jockey Hollow (Morristown National Historic Park) and Lewis Morris County Park, and join PP main section at Whippany River. Continue on PP to Morristown, passing Speedwell Lake.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
Accessible by train–contact leader for details.
Tues. Sep. 19. ANNUAL MEETING. Details will be mailed to members in early September.
Sat-Sun. Sept. 23-24.
MEMBERS-ONLY BEGINNER BACKPACK.
This will be a moderate-pace, moderate distance overnight for members who wish to try backpacking for the first time, as well as more experienced backpackers who’d like to join in the fun. We will travel by public transportation. Please contact the leader with questions and to RSVP. Some gear sharing may be possible.
• Duration 2 days
Accessible by public transportation–contact leader for details.
Leader: Ingrid
MEMBERS-ONLY BEGINNER BACKPACK.
This will be a moderate-pace, moderate distance overnight for members who wish to try backpacking for the first time, as well as more experienced backpackers who’d like to join in the fun. We will travel by public transportation. Please contact the leader with questions and to RSVP. Some gear sharing may be possible.
• Duration 2 days
Accessible by public transportation–contact leader for details.
Leader: Ingrid
Sun. Sep. 24.
HEWITT TO BUTLER.
(New Jersey)
Legacy hike led by Chris on April 8, 1984.
From Hewitt, follow as closely as possible the route of the former Hewitt-Butler Trail, now largely subsumed by other trails. Begin on the Highlands Trail to Burnt Meadow Trail and Tapowingo Trail over Long Hill. Continue on Overlook Rock, loop over West Brook Mtn. passing Manaticut Point. Descend to West Brook Road and roadwalk to Weis Ecology Center. Use Otter Hole Trail to HB past Wyanokie High Point then over Yoo-Hoo Point, Carris Hill, Torne Mtn. and Osio Rock. Continue on trail to Star Lake then local roads into Butler. NY-NJTC Map 151 (formerly 115).
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a brisk pace
• Strenuous
• 16+ miles
• Over 2000 feet elevation gain
Accessible by bus–contact leader for details.
Leader: Steve
HEWITT TO BUTLER.
(New Jersey)
Legacy hike led by Chris on April 8, 1984.
From Hewitt, follow as closely as possible the route of the former Hewitt-Butler Trail, now largely subsumed by other trails. Begin on the Highlands Trail to Burnt Meadow Trail and Tapowingo Trail over Long Hill. Continue on Overlook Rock, loop over West Brook Mtn. passing Manaticut Point. Descend to West Brook Road and roadwalk to Weis Ecology Center. Use Otter Hole Trail to HB past Wyanokie High Point then over Yoo-Hoo Point, Carris Hill, Torne Mtn. and Osio Rock. Continue on trail to Star Lake then local roads into Butler. NY-NJTC Map 151 (formerly 115).
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a brisk pace
• Strenuous
• 16+ miles
• Over 2000 feet elevation gain
Accessible by bus–contact leader for details.
Leader: Steve
>> October
Sun. Oct. 1.
MONMOUTH COUNTY: HOLMDEL PARK.
(New Jersey)
From Hazlet Station follow Holmdel Road to Crawford Hill and then overland, passing a site of cosmic significance. Continuing on, enter Holmdel Park and hike south using Marsh Trail, Ridge Walk, and Ramanessin Trail. Detour to Bayonet Farm and explore trails therein. Return north on Steeplechase Trail and then, following the proposed Ramanessin Greenway, climb to Phillips Park on Telegraph Hill. Drop down to local streets and return to Hazlet, passing colonial-era Dorsett Town cemetery enroute.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
Accessible by train–contact leader for details.
Leader: Chris
MONMOUTH COUNTY: HOLMDEL PARK.
(New Jersey)
From Hazlet Station follow Holmdel Road to Crawford Hill and then overland, passing a site of cosmic significance. Continuing on, enter Holmdel Park and hike south using Marsh Trail, Ridge Walk, and Ramanessin Trail. Detour to Bayonet Farm and explore trails therein. Return north on Steeplechase Trail and then, following the proposed Ramanessin Greenway, climb to Phillips Park on Telegraph Hill. Drop down to local streets and return to Hazlet, passing colonial-era Dorsett Town cemetery enroute.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
Accessible by train–contact leader for details.
Leader: Chris
Sun. Oct. 8.
KAKIAT COUNTY PARK TO TUXEDO – VIEWS AND HIDDEN TREASURES.
(Harriman State Park)
From Kakiat County Park, use entire Mountain Trail then join Kakiat Trail. Turn onto Torne Valley Road and visit Conklin Cemetery. Retrace steps and turn right on TVR. Left onto Poached Egg, right onto Raccoon Brook Hills Trail with brief stop at Indian Caves. Right onto KT, cross Pine Meadow Brook Trail and bear left on KT. Connect to Seven Hills Trail, which climb, joining Hillburn-Torne-Sebago Trail, and continuing on HTS to descend to Tuxedo-Mount-Ivy Trail. Bear left on TMI and follow to intersection with Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail. Out to Tuxedo on RD. NY-NJTC Map #118.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
Accessible by bus–contact leaders for details.
Leader: Maria; Gaelle
KAKIAT COUNTY PARK TO TUXEDO – VIEWS AND HIDDEN TREASURES.
(Harriman State Park)
From Kakiat County Park, use entire Mountain Trail then join Kakiat Trail. Turn onto Torne Valley Road and visit Conklin Cemetery. Retrace steps and turn right on TVR. Left onto Poached Egg, right onto Raccoon Brook Hills Trail with brief stop at Indian Caves. Right onto KT, cross Pine Meadow Brook Trail and bear left on KT. Connect to Seven Hills Trail, which climb, joining Hillburn-Torne-Sebago Trail, and continuing on HTS to descend to Tuxedo-Mount-Ivy Trail. Bear left on TMI and follow to intersection with Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail. Out to Tuxedo on RD. NY-NJTC Map #118.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
Accessible by bus–contact leaders for details.
Leader: Maria; Gaelle
Sun. Oct. 15.
RAMBLERS CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION.
(Manhattan)
Join us in NYC for festivities as we celebrate our centennial anniversary. Complete details will be emailed to members, posted on our website, and available from the Council. Stay tuned.
RAMBLERS CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION.
(Manhattan)
Join us in NYC for festivities as we celebrate our centennial anniversary. Complete details will be emailed to members, posted on our website, and available from the Council. Stay tuned.
Sun. Oct. 22.
CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY HIKE: HIGH MOUNTAIN PARK PRESERVE. (TWO GROUPS.)
(New Jersey)
From William Paterson University bus stop follow local roads to Red Trail, which, with the Yellow Trail, follow to summit of High Mountain, site of the NY Ramblers Hiking Club’s foundation on October 25, 1923. There, hikers will split into two groups, with a slower group entering Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve before returning to the WPU bus stop via the RT, for a mid-afternoon bus. The second group will continue on the YT and hike trails within the Preserve including Orange, Blue, and White. Choice of exits either to WPU bus stop, or to bus #197 stop via Valley Road and local streets. NY-NJTC map 125.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
Accessible by bus–contact leaders for details.
Leader: Group 1: Dennis;
212-925-2739
Leader: Group 2: Zee;
CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY HIKE: HIGH MOUNTAIN PARK PRESERVE. (TWO GROUPS.)
(New Jersey)
From William Paterson University bus stop follow local roads to Red Trail, which, with the Yellow Trail, follow to summit of High Mountain, site of the NY Ramblers Hiking Club’s foundation on October 25, 1923. There, hikers will split into two groups, with a slower group entering Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve before returning to the WPU bus stop via the RT, for a mid-afternoon bus. The second group will continue on the YT and hike trails within the Preserve including Orange, Blue, and White. Choice of exits either to WPU bus stop, or to bus #197 stop via Valley Road and local streets. NY-NJTC map 125.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
Accessible by bus–contact leaders for details.
Leader: Group 1: Dennis;
212-925-2739
Leader: Group 2: Zee;
Sat-Sun. Oct. 28-29.
MEMBERS-ONLY BEGINNER BACKPACK.
This will be a moderate-pace, moderate distance overnight for members who wish to try backpacking for the first time, as well as more experienced backpackers who’d like to join in the fun. We will travel by public transportation, and meet other hikers on Sunday at the Torrey Memorial. Please contact the leader with questions and to RSVP. Some gear sharing may be possible.
• Duration 2 days
Accessible by public transportation–contact leader for details.
Leader: Ingrid
MEMBERS-ONLY BEGINNER BACKPACK.
This will be a moderate-pace, moderate distance overnight for members who wish to try backpacking for the first time, as well as more experienced backpackers who’d like to join in the fun. We will travel by public transportation, and meet other hikers on Sunday at the Torrey Memorial. Please contact the leader with questions and to RSVP. Some gear sharing may be possible.
• Duration 2 days
Accessible by public transportation–contact leader for details.
Leader: Ingrid
Sun. Oct. 29.
TORREY MEMORIAL.
(Harriman State Park)
From Central Valley (Estrada Road), follow Long Path over Brooks and Howell mountains to Torrey Memorial to honor Trail Conference visionary, Raymond Torrey (1880-1938). Leave by LP, then switch to Popolopen Gorge Trail and 1777 (W and E) trails, to Bear Mountain Inn. Return to NYC either by Coach USA bus leaving Inn at 5:19, or crossing Bear Mtn. Bridge to Manitou Station. NY-NJTC Map 119.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
Accessible by bus–contact leader for details.
Leader: Kay
TORREY MEMORIAL.
(Harriman State Park)
From Central Valley (Estrada Road), follow Long Path over Brooks and Howell mountains to Torrey Memorial to honor Trail Conference visionary, Raymond Torrey (1880-1938). Leave by LP, then switch to Popolopen Gorge Trail and 1777 (W and E) trails, to Bear Mountain Inn. Return to NYC either by Coach USA bus leaving Inn at 5:19, or crossing Bear Mtn. Bridge to Manitou Station. NY-NJTC Map 119.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
Accessible by bus–contact leader for details.
Leader: Kay
>> November
Sat. Nov. 4.
NEW WHITE TRAIL FROM NYACK BEACH TO LONG PATH.
(Palisdaes Interstate Park)
(Note: this is a Saturday hike.)
From Tarrytown station use HO7 Hudson Link bus (credit card needed for $2.75 fare) to Rte. 59/Mountainview Ave. stop in Nyack. Ascend to Mountainview Nature Park and hike all trails within. Exit park and proceed via connector (across the Avenue) to Long Path and use it to Christian Herald Road and Rte 9W. Continue on LP to old White Trail leading to Nyack Beach. Then use new White Trail to return to LP. Hike over Hook Mountain and continue on LP to the Treason Trail leading to the riverside. Exit to West Haverstraw. Return to NYC either by Coach USA bus (Rte. 202) or TOR bus to Spring Valley Transit Center and train to Penn Station. NY-NJTC Maps 110, 111, 112.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
Accessible by train–contact leader for details.
Leader: Hugues
NEW WHITE TRAIL FROM NYACK BEACH TO LONG PATH.
(Palisdaes Interstate Park)
(Note: this is a Saturday hike.)
From Tarrytown station use HO7 Hudson Link bus (credit card needed for $2.75 fare) to Rte. 59/Mountainview Ave. stop in Nyack. Ascend to Mountainview Nature Park and hike all trails within. Exit park and proceed via connector (across the Avenue) to Long Path and use it to Christian Herald Road and Rte 9W. Continue on LP to old White Trail leading to Nyack Beach. Then use new White Trail to return to LP. Hike over Hook Mountain and continue on LP to the Treason Trail leading to the riverside. Exit to West Haverstraw. Return to NYC either by Coach USA bus (Rte. 202) or TOR bus to Spring Valley Transit Center and train to Penn Station. NY-NJTC Maps 110, 111, 112.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
Accessible by train–contact leader for details.
Leader: Hugues
Sun. Nov. 5. Marathon Sunday. No Sunday hike.
Sun. Nov. 12.
STONETOWN CIRCULAR.
(New Jersey)
From Greenwood Lake Turnpike, cross Monksville Dam and hike this Jersey Highlands trail in its entirety, passing over Board, Bear, and Windbeam mountains, by Tory Rocks, and over Harrison Mountain. NY-NJTC Map #151 (formerly 115).
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
• Headlamps advised
Accessible by bus–contact leaders for details.
Leader: Gaelle; Maria
STONETOWN CIRCULAR.
(New Jersey)
From Greenwood Lake Turnpike, cross Monksville Dam and hike this Jersey Highlands trail in its entirety, passing over Board, Bear, and Windbeam mountains, by Tory Rocks, and over Harrison Mountain. NY-NJTC Map #151 (formerly 115).
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
• Headlamps advised
Accessible by bus–contact leaders for details.
Leader: Gaelle; Maria
Sun. Nov. 19.
WATERFALLS GREAT AND SMALL.
(New Jersey)
From the bus stop at Market and Main Streets in Paterson, use local streets to reach and explore Paterson Great Falls National Historic Park. Then head south on McBride Avenue to the Morris Canal Greenway, which follow southbound to Francisco Avenue. Jog east towards the Cedar Grove Reservoir and join the Lenape Trail southbound towards South Mountain Reservation. Pausing to enjoy Hobble and Hemlock falls along the way, hike the LT to its terminus opposite Milburn train station.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
• 22+ miles
• Headlamps advised
Accessible by bus–contact leader for details.
Leader: Steve
WATERFALLS GREAT AND SMALL.
(New Jersey)
From the bus stop at Market and Main Streets in Paterson, use local streets to reach and explore Paterson Great Falls National Historic Park. Then head south on McBride Avenue to the Morris Canal Greenway, which follow southbound to Francisco Avenue. Jog east towards the Cedar Grove Reservoir and join the Lenape Trail southbound towards South Mountain Reservation. Pausing to enjoy Hobble and Hemlock falls along the way, hike the LT to its terminus opposite Milburn train station.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a fast pace
• Strenuous
• 22+ miles
• Headlamps advised
Accessible by bus–contact leader for details.
Leader: Steve
Sat. Nov. 25.
MONTAUK POINT CIRCULAR.
(Long Island)
(Note: this is a Saturday hike.)
Legacy hike led by leader on April 23, 2017.
From Montauk Station, walk to Montauk Point lighthouse. Continue along shore of Block Island Sound past False Point and Oyster Pond to Shagwong Point. Using park trails return to Atlantic coastline and continue to Montauk Station.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
• Headlamps advised.
Accessible by train–contact leader for details.
Leader: Zee
MONTAUK POINT CIRCULAR.
(Long Island)
(Note: this is a Saturday hike.)
Legacy hike led by leader on April 23, 2017.
From Montauk Station, walk to Montauk Point lighthouse. Continue along shore of Block Island Sound past False Point and Oyster Pond to Shagwong Point. Using park trails return to Atlantic coastline and continue to Montauk Station.
• Duration about 7-8 hours at a moderate pace
• Headlamps advised.
Accessible by train–contact leader for details.
Leader: Zee
Sun. Nov. 26. No Sunday hike.
* * *
Because in the end, you won’t remember the time you spent working in the office or mowing your lawn. Climb that goddamn mountain.
~Jack Kerouac
* * *
Member of New York-New Jersey Trail Conference
Top photo by Andres
