Backpacking the Long Path
Backpacking the Long Path
By Ed Walsh
Afoot and light-hearted I take to the open road,
Healthy, free, the world before me,
The long brown path before me leading wherever I choose. Walt Whitman
This guide is written to assist hikers who wish to hike the Long Path from end to end in a single trip. It may also be useful to anyone planning a shorter backpack on the Long Path.
Until recently it was almost impossible to hike the Long Path in a single trip, although a few intrepid backpackers have done it. The stretches of private property crossed by the trail and the long road walks necessitated by the closing of sections of the trail, made a continuous trip a major undertaking. However, the opening of the Shawangunk Ridge Trail (SRT) and the co-alignment of the Long Path with the Appalachian Trail to reach the SRT have made such a trip feasible.
It is now possible to backpack the entire length of the trail, but it still requires quite a bit of planning. It is not possible to camp out along the trail for its entire length. Some nights it will be necessary to hike to a motel or a nearby campground.
This section will tell you which sections of the trail are open for camping and will list facilities nearby where overnight camping or other accommodations are available for those sections where camping is not allowed. Just because a motel or campground is listed in this booklet does not guarantee its quality. The accommodations were chosen based solely on their distance from the trail. It is hoped that hikers will send reports on the facilities listed and these will be included in future editions of this guide. No reference is made to suggested tent sites where overnight camping is allowed. It is up to the hiker to find these on their own. Clearly a backpacker on the Long Path should have experience in map reading and a good “woods sense.”
This booklet does not give instructions on how to backpack. It is presumed that a hiker attempting to thru hike this trail in a single trip has some backpacking experience. However, due to its proximity to major population centers, the southern section is a good place to hone your backpacking skills.
Camping
Lean-tos or shelters located on the Long Path are three sided, open front structures with wood floors. They are usually buggy and almost all have resident mouse populations. In the Catskills, porcupines are a serious nuisance. They love anything salty, so hang your boots as well as your food. The Catskills and New Jersey are also home to black bears. Although bears are usually not a problem, you should know how to protect your food supply. The shelters are all first come, first served up to capacity, usually 6 to 8 people. Groups of three or more should not use the shelters unless there is remaining room left in the late afternoon. They should be ready to make room for through hikers arriving late. Except for the Appalachian Trail section and the Catskills, shelters or lean-tos are rare. A tent is a necessity for backpacking this trail.
Although the Long Path passes through many State parks in its southern section, overnight camping is restricted to Cheesecote Park in the Town of Haverstraw (permit required), Harriman State Park (only within 100 yards of a lean-to), and the DEC lands along the Shawangunks.
Camping is allowed on State land in the Catskill Forest Preserve and in State Reforestation Areas as long as your campsite is 150 feet from any trail, road or water and below 3500 feet in elevation. Camping for more than three days in the same place requires a permit, as does camping with a group of ten or more. Permits can be obtained from the DEC. Only dead and down wood may be used for a campfire. A backpacking stove is highly recommended.
Overnight camping is not allowed on private property traversed by the Long Path. Permission to hike on these parcels was granted only after negotiations with the landowner. Please remember that you are a guest there. Do not do anything that might jeopardize these agreements. Campfires, horses, mountain bikes and motor vehicles are not allowed on private property crossed by the Long Path. Most of the private property is closed during big game hunting season. Some of this land is open for hunting, which usually extends from the Monday before Thanksgiving until the second week in December. For specific dates, write to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Division of Fish and Game, State Campus, Albany, New York, 12226. The Trail Conference also maintains its own list of hunting seasons for areas under it’s purvey. Click here for more information. For your own safety do not hike on these sections during the hunting season.
Post Offices
The Long Path passes by or near 21 Post Offices. A list appears in the back of this chapter. Many long distance backpackers arrange a series of mail drops along the way by mailing food or supplies to themselves. This helps to lighten their load and allows the hiker to purchase his food in bulk and save money. The package should be addressed to the hiker c/o General Delivery with the words, “Hold for Hiker arriving on or about...” on the package. Post Offices are not obligated to hold these packages for more than 30 days, so if you are planning a long trip it will be useful to prepare these food drops ahead of time and have a friend or family member mail them to you as you hike. It’s a good idea not to seal these packages until they are ready to mail. Hikers usually find that they have packed too much food (or not enough) or have forgotten to include some useful piece of equipment. The Post Offices are usually open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and on Saturdays from 8:00 AM to noon.
How to Use This Guide
The sections listed here correspond to the sections in the Long Path Guide. The distances given are south to north. If camping is not allowed on a section that cannot be reasonably hiked in a day, directions are given to the nearest public accommodation (campground or motel).
SECTION 1
George Washington Bridge to Route 9W at Lamont-Doherty
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
None |
|
Lodging |
There are many hotels in Fort Lee; the closest to the Long Path is an Econolodge (201-944-5332) located directly across the street from where the trail goes up the Palisades, north of the GWB. Of course, New York City is just across the bridge. |
|
Food |
There are many restaurants and stores located in Fort Lee. The gas station at mile 1.45 offers Dunkin Donuts, vending machines, telephones, water and restrooms. There is also food at the State Line Lookout snack bar (Lookout Inn) at mile 11.35. |
|
Post Office |
None |
SECTION 2
Route 9W at Lamont-Doherty to Nyack (Mountainview Avenue)
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
None |
|
Lodging |
Super 8 Motel 845-353-3880. Located right on the trail before it crosses Route 59. Best Western Motel 845-358-8100. 0.50 miles east on Route 59. |
|
Food |
There is a snack bar and deli on the eastside of Route 9W in Palisades (0.95 mi). The village of Piermont has restaurants and delis. Near the intersection of Route 59 is a convenience store and a McDonald’s. 0.05 miles east on Route 59 are the Old World Food Market, delis, and Chinese restaurant. 0.75 miles east on Route 59 is the village of Nyack with many restaurants and food shops. 0.20 miles west on Route 59 is Alain's French Bistro, and 0.60 miles west on Route 59 is a supermarket, pharmacy, deli and Chinese restaurant. |
|
Post Office |
Palisades 10964 - at mile 0.55 turn left onto Oak Tree Road for 0.10 miles. Piermont 10968 - at mile 3.25, after crossing the Sparkill Creek, turn west (left) onto Piermont Avenue for 20 yards. |
SECTION 3
Nyack (Mountainview Avenue) to Long Clove (Route 9W)
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
None. Although the Long Path traverses much State land in this section, camping is not allowed. Ed & Eudora Walsh (845-429-8550) will allow through hikers to camp in their backyard if prior arrangements are made. Bus service to and from the trail is available for most of this section. |
|
Lodging |
Raintree Motel 845-268-5600. At mile 5.75, Rockland Lake Road, turn left for 0.20 miles past the firehouse, then right for 1.00 miles to Route 9W. The motel is across the street on the left. Holiday Court Motel 845-268-3300. At mile 5.50, Rockland Lake Road, turn left for 0.20miles past the firehouse, then right for 1.00 miles to Route 9W. The motel is 0.20 miles north (right) on 9W. Green Inn Motel on the Lake 845-268-6836. At mile 5.50, Rockland Lake Road, turn left for 0.20 miles past the firehouse, then right for 1.00 miles to Route 9W. The motel is 0.10 mile farther north on Route 9W. |
|
Food |
Near mile 2.1 are a convenience store and restaurants. There are restaurants both north and south on Route 9W from the intersection with the park road at Rockland Lake. From the northern end of this section there are a deli, laundromat, Dunkin Donuts, pizza restaurant, Chinese restaurant, and Rick's Club American, 1 mile south on Route 303. |
|
Post Office |
None |
SECTION 4
Long Clove to Mount Ivy
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
None. Although the Long Path traverses much State land in this section, camping is not allowed. Ed & Eudora Walsh (845-429-8550) will allow through hikers to camp in their backyard if prior arrangements are made. Bus service to and from the trail is available for most of this section. |
|
Lodging |
Rockland Motel 845-354-1373. 1.30 miles south on Route 202 (mile 6.80) in Mount Ivy. |
|
Food |
From the southern end of this section there is a restaurant, bakery and laundromat 1 mile south on Route 303. 0.20 miles west from mile 1.20 is a deli. Along Route 202, which is 0.15 mile north of the end of this section, are several restaurants and stores. See Section 5. |
|
Post Office |
Pomona 10970. At mile 6.85 turn right for 0.15 mi to Route 202, then turn left (west) onto Route 202 for 0.90 miles. |
SECTION 5
Mount Ivy to Lake Skannatati
|
Lean-tos |
Big Hill Shelter mile 5.80 Water is available at stream crossing 1 mile south on LP or follow LP to AT&T right of way, turn left and follow for 1 mile to Breakneck Pond. |
|
Camping |
In Cheesecote Park in the Town of Haverstraw camping is allowed with permit only (845-429-2200). The park is open from April 1 through November 30. |
|
Lodging |
Rockland Motel 845-354-1373. 1.30 miles east on Route 202 in Mount Ivy |
|
Food |
At mile 0.15, to the right (east) on Route 202, is a deli, restaurant, pizzeria, bank and laundromat. At mile 0.35 is a diner, and 0.30 miles farther west on Route 202 is a large shopping plaza with a supermarket, pharmacy, bank, laundromat and restaurants. |
|
Post Office |
Pomona 10970. At mile 0.35 continue west on Route 202 for 0.70 miles west. |
SECTION 6
Lake Skannatati to intersection with the Appalachian Trail
|
Lean-tos |
Cohasset Shelter mile 4.45. 0.85 miles past the intersection with the Appalachian Trail, north on the original Long Path. Shelter is made of corrugated metal, no water. Note that this shelter is primarily for the use of a girl’s camp. Be prepared to vacate if they request to use it. (To continue on the suggested route the hiker must backtrack to the intersection of the AT). Distance from Big Hill Shelter – 8.15 miles. Fingerboard Shelter mile 1.50 north on the Appalachian Trail (please note that the LP follows the Appalachian Trail south here. To continue on the suggested route the hiker must backtrack 1.50 miles). Water 0.50 miles on blue-blazed side trail at Lake Tiorati. Distance from Big Hill Shelter – 8.80 miles. |
|
Camping |
In Harriman State Park camping is allowed only within 100 yards of a shelter. |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
None |
|
Post Office |
None |
LP/AT SECTION
Harriman Park to High Point State Park
|
Lean-tos |
Wildcat Shelter. Water from a hand pump. Distance from Cohasset Shelter – 12.00 miles. Wawayanda Shelter mile 25.00. 0.10 miles from the AT on blue blazed side trail. Water available at park headquarters, 0.25 miles from the shelter on another blue-blazed trail. Distance from Wildcat Shelter – 12.10 miles. Pochuck Mountain Shelter mile 36.50, 0.10 miles from the AT on a blue-blazed side trail. Water available from a spigot at a vacant house at the foot of Pochuck Mountain. Distance from Wawayanda Shelter – 11.50 miles. High Point Shelter mile 42.90, 0.10 miles from the AT on a blue blazed side trail. Water available from streams near the shelter. Distance from Pochuck Mountain Shelter – 12.40 miles. |
|
Camping |
none |
|
Lodging |
Tuxedo Motel 845-351-4747. 2.10 miles east on Route 17. Breezy Point 2.00 miles east on Route 17A. Appalachian Motel. 1.80 miles east on NJ Route 94 in Vernon, NJ. Hostel. St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Vernon NJ. Apple Valley Inn 973-764-3735. 1.10 miles west on County 517 in Glenwood, NJ Reservations requested at least one day in advance. Backtrack Inn. 0.40 miles west on Lott Road in Unionville, NJ. Hostel with bunk space for 4 people. High Point Country Inn 973-702-1860. 1.40 miles east on NJ Route 23. |
|
Food |
NY 17A, west 0.20 miles is Belmont Creamery (icecream); west 1.60 miles is a deli and pizza place. East 2.00 miles to Greenwood Lake with a supermarket, deli, restaurants and pizza. Warwick Turnpike, 0.20 miles east is a farm market. NJ Route 94, 0.10 miles west is a farm stand. 2.40 miles east is Vernon, NJ with supermarkets, restaurants, delis, and a laundromat. County Route 517, 1.10 miles west in Glenwood is a farm market and deli. NJ Route 284, west 0.40 miles is a small grocery store. Lott Road, 0.40 miles west in Unionville is a grocery store, restaurant and pizza. High Point State Park, 0.60 miles from the park office is a swimming area and snack bar |
|
Post Office |
Arden, NY 10910 - 0.70 miles west on Route 17 Southfields, NY 10975 - 2.10 miles east on Route 17 Bellvale, NY 10912 - 1.60 miles west on Route 17A, inside general store Greenwood Lake, NY 10925 - 2.00 miles east on Route 17A New Milford, NY 10959 - 1.80 miles west inside store Vernon, NJ 07462 - 2.40 miles east on Route 94 Glenwood, NJ 07418 - 1.10 miles west on Route 517 Unionville, NY 10988 - 0.40 miles west on Lott Road |
Shawangunk Ridge Trail
The Shawangunk Ridge Trail (SRT), which is part of the Long Path system, begins at the Appalachian Trail in High Point State Park, 0.50 miles from the High Point Shelter and where the Monument Trail crosses the Appalachian Trail. The SRT and Monument Trail, which are co-aligned for the next 1.50 miles, turn right and in about 0.50 miles pass High Point Monument. Cross the parking lot and follow the SRT north. 1.50 miles from the AT, the SRT leaves the Monument Trail and turns left, paralleling the eastern edge of Cedar Swamp on a woods road.
SECTION G-1
High Point State Park to Route 6 and Hawthorne Road
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
Camping is allowed in the Huckleberry Ridge State Forest located at miles 4.95 to 6.00 and 6.25 to 7.30 |
|
Lodging |
High Point Motor Lodge 201-702-1860. 1.40 miles east on NJ Route 23. Comfort Inn - turn right at mile 4.55 and follow Greenville Turnpike downhill 1.45 miles, motel is on the left. |
|
Food |
Mile 7.70 - Firehouse Deli - turn right and follow route 6 downhill .15 mile to the next intersection, deli is on the left. |
|
Post Office |
None |
SECTION G-2
Route 6 and Hathorn Boulevard to Route 211 and Otisville Road
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
From Hathorn Lake the trail passes around Huckleberry Ridge State Forest, where camping is allowed. The state forest is just to the left between miles 0.35 and 1.40, and again at mile 1.90. The trail also passes through a DEC forest parcel between miles 3.90 and 4.65, and at mile 7.15 more DEC land can be found east of the trail. American Family Campground, Guymard Turnpike, Godeffroy, NY. 845-754-8388. Hot showers, pool, cabins, laundry. April 15 to October 15. At mile 4.90 turn left on Guymard Turnpike and cross the bridge. 1.80 miles west on the Guymard Turnpike, on the left. Caters mainly to RV’s. Distance from High Point Shelter – 16.70 miles. Otisville Campground, 1 Grange Rd., Otisville, NY 10963 845-386-5104 hot showers, laundry. Turn right onto Rte 211 for 1 mile to Highland Ave. (Co. Rte 11) Follow Rte 11 1.4 miles to Grange Rd. Turn left. Owner will shuttle hikers to and from the trail. Distance from American Family Campground – 7.10 miles. |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
Otisville 1 mile right on Rte. 211. General store, pizza. |
|
Post Office |
Otisville 10963 - 1 mile right, on Rte. 211 |
SECTION G-3
Rte. 211 and Otisville Rd. to Old Rte. 17 and O&W right of way
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
Camping is allowed in the Gobblers Knob secion (DEC land) between mile 0.30 and mile 2.10. The stream in this section is seasonal. Otisville Campground, Grange Road, Otisville, NY. 2.50 miles from the trail on Grange Road, off Mt. Hope Road (County Route 11) southeast of Otisville. Distance from American Family Campground – 7.10 miles |
|
Lodging |
Mile 9.20 in Wurtsboro. Valley Brook Inn and Cottages, 201 Kingston Ave (Route 209), about 0.30 miles from the trail. 845-888-0330. Days Inn. About 1 mile from the trail, south on Route 209. 845-888-2727. |
|
Food |
Otisville 1 mile right on Rte. 211. General store, pizza. Wurtsboro, mile 9.20. Restaurants, deli. Supermarket about 1 mile from the trail, south on Route 209. |
|
Post Office |
Otisville 10963 - 1 mile right, on Rte. 211. Wurtsboro 12790 - mile 9.30, on the trail. |
The Village of Wurtsboro is a good place for a layover day. A motel, restaurants, supermarkets, and pharmacy are all within walking distance. You can also rent a glider at the nearby airport.
SECTION G-4
Old Rte. 17 and O&W right of way to Long Path
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
Camping is allowed in this entire section as it's in the Wurtsboro Ridge State Forest. |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
None |
|
Post Office |
None |
SECTION 11
Shawangunk Ridge Trail to Sam’s Point Preserve
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
Berentsen’s Campground, RR 2 Box 63C, Bloomingburg, NY 845-733-4984. May 1 to October 15. Hot showers, cabins, toilets. $10 per night. Mile 1.00, turn right for 0.50 miles to Shawanga Lodge Rd. Turn left for 0.65 miles to Crane Road. Turn right for 0.70 miles to Roosa Gap Road. Turn right for 1 mile. |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
None |
|
Post Office |
Cragsmoor 12420. About 2.20 miles from Sam's Point Preserve at the end of this section. |
SECTION 12
Sam’s Point Preserve to Jenny Lane
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
None |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
None |
|
Post Office |
None |
SECTION 13
Jenny Lane to Riggsville
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
Camping is permitted on State land at the end of this section. |
|
Lodging |
Chelsea Motel 845-626-3551 or 5152. At mile 3.40 continue on Route 44/55 for 0.40 miles. Motel is on the left. Distance from last camping in DEC land (Section 11): 21.95 miles. Continental Motel 845-626-4000. At mile 3.40 continue on Route 44/55 for 0.50 miles. Motel is on the right. 0.7 miles south on Route 209 is a Days Inn 845-888-2727. |
|
Food |
At the intersection with Route 209 (mile 4.10) are a Stewart's, laundromat, supermarket, diner, and pizza place. 0.3 mile south on Route 209 is a pharmacy and 1 mile south on Route 209 is a supermarket. |
|
Post Office |
Kerhonkson 12446. Turn right on Route 209 (north) for 0.1 mile to West Street, then turn right. |
SECTION 14
Riggsville to Bull Run
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
Camping is permitted on State land at elevations below 3500 feet and at least 150 feet from water or trails. Water is available at Vernooy Kill Falls, mile 1.70, intermittently along the trail and at Sundown. Distance from Kerhonkson motels to State land – 9.80 miles. Sundown primitive campsite is at the junction of Peekamoose Road at mile 9.65. No facilities. Water available from Rondout Creek. |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
None |
|
Post Office |
None |
SECTION 15
Bull Run to Denning Road
|
Lean-tos |
Bouton Memorial lean-to - mile 5.20, 0.20 miles on a side trail. Water from a spring on the LP. Distance from Sundown – 5.20 miles |
|
Camping |
Camping is permitted on State land at elevations below 3500 feet and at least 150 feet from water or trails. |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
None |
|
Post Office |
None |
SECTION 16
Denning Road to Woodland Valley
|
Lean-tos |
Terrace Mountain lean to - mile 8.60, 0.90 miles on a side trail. Water available. Distance from Bouton lean-to – 11 miles |
|
Camping |
Woodland Valley State Campground 845-688-7647. Mile 11.20, May 15 - October 12, showers, flush toilets. Distance from Terrace Mountain – 2.60 miles. Camping is permitted on State land at elevations below 3500 feet and at least 150 feet from water or trails. There are designated campsites between Slide and Cornell Mountains. |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
None |
|
Post Office |
None |
SECTION 17
Woodland Valley to Phoenicia
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
Woodland Valley State Campground. Mile 0.00. Distance from Terrace Mountain – 2.60 miles. Camping is permitted on State land at elevations below 3500 feet and at least 150 feet from water or trails. |
|
Lodging |
Phoenicia Lodge 845-688-7772. At mile 4.70 turn left on East Street for 0.2 miles. |
|
Food |
There is a grocery store, restaurants and pharmacy in Phoenicia. Brio’s Restaurant is highly recommended. |
|
Post Office |
Phoenicia 12464 – At the intersection with Main Street, continue straight ahead for about 75 yards. The Post Office is on the right. |
Phoenicia is a good town for a layover day. Besides resupply, you can spend the day fishing or tubing on the Esopus.
SECTION 18
Phoenicia to Silver Hollow Notch
|
Lean-tos |
Baldwin Memorial lean-to - Mile 3.20. Pipe spring, 50’ to left of trail. Distance from Woodland Valley – 8.95 miles. Tremper Mountain lean-to. No water. Mile 4.00 Distance from Baldwin lean-to - 0.80 miles. |
|
Camping |
Camping is permitted on State land at elevations below 3500 feet and at least 150 feet from water or trails. |
|
Lodging |
Phoenicia Lodge 845-688-7772. 1.05 mile back turn right on East Street for 0.2 miles. |
|
Food |
There are a grocery store, restaurants, and pharmacy in Phoenicia. |
|
Post Office |
Phoenicia 12464 - At the intersection with Main Street continue straight ahead for about 75 yards. The Post Office is on the right. |
SECTION 19
Silver Hollow Notch to Platte Clove Road
|
Lean-tos |
Mink Hollow lean-to - Mile 4.40. Distance from Tremper lean-to - 11.20 miles |
|
Camping |
Camping is permitted on State land at elevations below 3500 feet and at least 150 feet from water or trails. |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
None |
|
Post Office |
None |
SECTION 20
Platte Clove Road to Palenville
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
Camping is permitted on State land at elevations below 3500 feet and at least 150 feet from water or trails. |
|
Lodging |
Catskill Mountain Lodge 518-678-3101. Mile 10.00 - continue on Route 23A for 0.40 miles, then turn right on Route 32A for 1 mile. Motel and restaurant. Clark House B&B 518-678-5649. Mile 10.00 - continue on Route 23A for 0.40 miles. |
|
Food |
Mile 10.00 - continue 0.20 miles to Palenville, which has a deli, and a general store with Coleman fuel available. |
|
Post Office |
Palenville 12463 - Mile 10.00 - continue on Route 23A for 0.30 miles. |
SECTION 21
Palenville to North Lake
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
North Lake State Campground 518-589-5058. Mile 4.80. 219 sites, showers, swimming. Reservations recommended. Distance from Mink Hollow – 24.90 miles. Camping is permitted on State land at elevations below 3500 feet and at least 150 feet from water or trails. |
|
Lodging |
Catskill Mountain Lodge 518-678-3101. Mile 0.00 continue on Route 23A for 0.40 miles, then turn right on Route 32A for 1 mile. Motel and restaurant. Clark House B&B 518-678-5649. Mile 0.00 continue on Route 23A for 0.40 miles. |
|
Food |
Mile 0.00. Continue 0.20 miles to Palenville, which has a deli, and a general store with Coleman fuel available. |
|
Post Office |
Palenville 12463 |
SECTION 22
North Lake to Batavia Kill
|
Lean-tos |
Batavia Kill lean-to. Mile 9.80, 0.25 miles on a side trail. Water available from stream. Distance from North Lake – 10.05 miles |
|
Camping |
North Lake State Campground. Mile 0.00. 219 sites, showers, swimming $16 reservations recommended. Camping is permitted on State land at elevations below 3500 feet and at least 150 feet from water or trails. |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
None |
|
Post Office |
None |
SECTION 23
Batavia Kill to Route 23
|
Lean-tos |
Batavia Kill lean-to. Mile 0.00, 0.25 miles on a side trail. Water available from stream. Elm Ridge lean-to. Mile 7.40, water from a pipe spring 0.1 miles south. Distance from Batavia Kill – 7.40 miles |
|
Camping |
Camping is permitted on State land at elevations below 3500 feet and at least 150 feet from water or trails. |
|
Lodging |
Kopper Kettle Inn and Restaurant 518-734-3575. 2.50 miles west on Route 23. Hamilton Motel 518-734-3190. 2.80 miles west on Route 23. Hillside Mountain Inn 518-734-3668. 2.50 miles west on Route 23. |
|
Food |
Kopper Kettle. 2.50 miles west on Route 23. Village of Windham, 3.60 miles west on Route 23 has restaurants, delis and a small grocery. |
|
Post Office |
Windham 12496 – 3.90 miles west on Route 23 |
CAUTION: Water is scarce throughout the next 3 sections, especially during the summer months.
SECTION 24
Route 23 to Greene County Route 10
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
Camping is permitted on State land at elevations below 3500 feet and at least 150 feet from water or trails. Only the first 0.75 miles of the LP in this section is on State land. The rest of the trail is on private property and camping is not permitted. |
|
Lodging |
Kopper Kettle Inn and Restaurant 518-734-3575. 2.50 miles west on Route 23. Hamilton Motel 518-734-3190. 2.80 miles west on Route 23 |
|
Food |
Kopper Kettle. 2.50 miles west on Route 23. Village of Windham, 3.60 miles west on Route 23 has restaurants, delis and a small grocery. |
|
Post Office |
Windham 12496 – 3.90 miles west on Route 23 |
SECTION 25
Greene County Route 10 to Greene County Route 32C
|
Lean-tos |
Mile 5.25. Approximately 3 miles west on the red trail is the Hunterfield lean-to. |
|
Camping |
The first 0.55 mile are on private land, camping is not allowed. The remainder of this section is in a State Reforestation Area. Camping is permitted on State land at elevations below 3500 feet and at least 150 feet from water or trails. Distance between State lands – 10.10 miles |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
None |
|
Post Office |
None |
SECTION 26
Greene County Route 32C to Conesville
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
Camping is permitted only on State lands in this section. Watch for signs indicating private property. |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
Waterfall House Restaurant. Mile 8.50 at the intersection of Prattsville Road and Route 990V. |
|
Post Office |
None |
SECTION 27
Conesville to Doney Hollow
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
Nickerson’s Campground 607-588-7327. Mile 3.30, hot showers (coin operated), pool, laundry & store. Distance from Huntersfield lean-to – 11.50 miles. Max V. Shaul State Campground 518-827-4711. Mile 8.75, 6.70 miles north on Route 30 from the intersection with Westkill Road. 32 sites, hot showers, flush toilets. Open mid-May through mid October. |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
Waterfall House Restaurant. Mile 0.00 at the intersection of Prattsville Road and Route 990V. The Blenheim House Restaurant. Mile 8.40 on left side of Rte. 30 after bridge over the Westkill |
|
Post Office |
Gilboa 12076 - Mile 1.50 on the trail. North Blenheim 12131 - Mile 8.40, on the trail opposite West Kill Road. |
SECTION 28
Doney Hollow to West Fulton
|
Lean-tos |
Rossman Hill. Mile 5.85, water 100 yards in front of the lean-to from a well, may be dry in summer, fill up at streams before lean-to. Distance from Nickerson’s – 13.25 miles |
|
Camping |
Camping is allowed throughout the Eminence State Forest. Watch for private property signs toward the end of this section near West Fulton. Distance to State land from Nickerson’s – 7.10 miles. Max V. Shaul State Campground 518-827-4711. Mile 8.40, 4.00 miles to the right on West Fulton Road and another 0.20 miles north on Route 30. Water is readily available throughout this section. The streams at mile 4.10 and 4.55 and the well at mile 5.80 may be dry in summer. |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
None |
|
Post Office |
West Fulton 12194 - Mile 8.70, turn right onto West Fulton Road for 0.20 miles. |
SECTION 29
West Fulton to Middleburgh
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
Camping is allowed in the State Reforestation Areas, 150 feet from trails or water. There is private property at the beginning and the end of this section. Max V. Shaul State Campground 518-827-4711. Mile 0.00, 4.00 miles to the right on West Fulton Road and another 0.20 miles north on Route 30. It can also be reached by heading south on Route 30 for 3.00 miles from the intersection with Hardscrabble Road, mile 7.65. 32 sites, hot showers, flush toilets. Open mid-May through mid October. |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
Mile 8.70, 0.10 miles south on Route 30 is a farm stand. Mile 11.75, 1 mile north on Rte. 30 is a Grand Union supermarket. On Main Street in Middleburgh – Mrs. K’s Restaurant, Stewart’s & Red Barrel (not recommended, may not be friendly to hikers) on left, Hubie’s Pizzeria & Restaurant on right. |
|
Post Office |
West Fulton 12194 - Mile 0.00, turn right onto West Fulton Road for 0.20 miles. Middleburgh 12122 - Mile 11.75, follow the LP for an extra 0.15 miles. |
SECTION 30
Middleburgh to Albany County Line
|
Lean-tos |
Cotton Hill - Mile 6.75, no water at lean to. Get water at mile 6.15 at small stream just before crossing Treadlemire Rd. or at a pump (not reliable) on Treadlemire Road opposite a green barn (the pump may need to be primed). Distance from Rossman Hill lean-to – 21.40 miles |
|
Camping |
Camping is allowed in the State Reforestation Areas, 150 feet from trails or water. At mile 9.45, the trail enters private land. Distance between Patria and Cotton Hill State Forests – 9.75 miles |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
Mile 0.00 Middleburgh has delis, restaurants and grocery stores and a bank. |
|
Post Office |
Middleburgh 12122 - Mile 0.15 on the trail |
SECTION 31
Albany County Line to Switz Kill
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
Camping is only allowed on the State Reforestation Areas in this section, not in the Wildlife Management Area. State Forest is reached at 3.60 miles and continues until the Long Path reaches Beaver Road at mile 5.05. Distance from Cotton Hill State Forest – 5.95 miles |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
None |
|
Post Office |
None |
SECTION 32
Switz Kill to East Berne
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
Cole Hill State Forest. Miles 2.75 through 4.75. Distance from Partridge Run Forest – 11.45 miles |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
None |
|
Post Office |
None |
SECTION 33
East Berne to John Boyd Thacher State Park
|
Lean-tos |
There is a lean-to in John Boyd Thacher Park but it is not available for overnight use. |
|
Camping |
The beginning of this section is entirely on private property and the end is in John Boyd Thacher State Park. Neither allows overnight camping. Camping is available at Thompson’s Lake State Campground, 4 miles from Thacher Park on Route 157. 518-872-1674. 140 sites, hot showers, flush toilets, swimming. Distance from Cole Hill State Forest – 11.45 miles |
|
Lodging |
None |
|
Food |
None |
|
Post Office |
None |
SECTION 34
John Boyd Thacher State Park to Route 146
|
Lean-tos |
None |
|
Camping |
Thompson’s Lake State Campground 518-872-1674mile 3.55, turn left and follow paved Stage Road to its intersection with Route 157. The campground is approximately 1 mile to the left. Open May 1 through Columbus Day. 140 sites, beach, hot showers, flush toilets. |
|
Lodging |
Altamont Old Stone Inn B&B, 1160 Bern-Altamont Road, Altamont. 518-861-0200. |
|
Food |
None |
|
Post Office |
None |
Distances Between Accommodations
|
|
Miles |
|
|
Fort Lee to Nyack |
22.65 |
Motel |
|
Nyack to Rockland Lake |
5.50 |
Motel |
|
Rockland Lake to Mount Ivy |
10.20 |
Motel |
|
Mount Ivy to Big Hill Shelter |
7.10 |
|
|
Big Hill to Cohasset lean-to |
8.15 |
|
|
Cohasset to Wildcat shelter on the AT |
13.65 |
|
|
Wildcat to Wawayanda shelter |
12.00 |
|
|
Wawayanda to Pochuck Mountain shelter |
13.10 |
|
|
Pochuck to High Point shelter |
12.40 |
|
|
High Point to American Family Campground |
16.70 |
Fee |
|
American Campground to Otisville Campground |
7.10 |
Fee |
|
Otisville to Roosa Gap |
19.05 |
|
|
Roosa Gap to Kerhonkson |
23.85 |
Motel |
|
Kerhonkson to Riggsville (1) |
9.80 |
|
|
Riggsville to Sundown |
10.10 |
|
|
Sundown to Bouton lean-to |
5.20 |
|
|
Bouton to Terrace Mountain lean-to |
11.00 |
|
|
Terrace Mntn. to Woodland Valley Campground |
2.60 |
Fee |
|
Woodland Valley to Baldwin lean-to |
8.95 |
|
|
Baldwin to Tremper Mountain lean-to |
0.80 |
|
|
Tremper to Mink Hollow lean-to (2) |
9.80 |
|
|
Mink Hollow to North Lake Campground |
24.90 |
Fee |
|
North Lake to Batavia Kill lean-to |
10.05 |
|
|
Batavia Kill to Elm Ridge lean-to |
7.40 |
|
|
Elm Ridge to Huntersfield lean-to (3) |
16.90 |
|
|
Huntersfield lean-to to Nickerson’s Campground. |
11.50 |
Fee |
|
Nickerson’s to Rossman Hill lean-to (4) |
13.25 |
|
|
Rossman Hill to Cotton Hill lean-to (5) |
21.40 |
|
|
Cotton Hill to Partridge Run Reforestation Area |
8.75 |
|
|
Partridge Run to Cole Hill State Forest |
9.55 |
|
|
Cole Hill to Thompson’s Lake Campground |
11.45 |
Fee |
(1) Between Riggsville and Woodland Valley the trail is in the Catskill Forest Preserve for 28.85 miles. Camping is allowed anywhere as long as you are 150 feet from trails, roads or water.
(2) Between Mink Hollow and Route 23 in East Windham the Long Path is in the Catskill Forest Preserve for 45.6 miles. Camping is allowed anywhere provided you are at least 150 feet from trails, roads or water.
(3) The trail is mostly in Reforestation Areas for 10 miles. Camping is allowed with the same restrictions as above. Watch for private property boundaries.
(4) The LP enters the Eminance State Forest 7.10 miles from Nickerson’s.
(5) Camping is allowed in the State Forests in this area.
Post Offices
Palisades, NY 10964*
Piermont, NY 10968*
Pomona, NY 10970*
Arden, NY 10910*
Southfields, NY 10975
Bellvale, NY 10912
Greenwood Lake, NY 10925
New Milford, NY 10959
Vernon, NJ 07462
Glenwood, NJ 07418
Unionville, NY 10988
Otisville, NY 10963*
Wurtsboro, NY 12790**
Kerhonkson, NY 12446**
Phoenicia, NY 12464*
Palenville, NY 12463*
Windham, NY 12496
Gilboa, NY 12076**
North Blenheim, NY 12131**
West Fulton, NY 12194*
Middleburgh, NY 12122**
* Located within 1 mile of the trail
** Located on the trail
Transportation
|
Red and Tan Lines 845-356-0877 |
Bus service along Route 9W from Fort Lee to Haverstraw |
|
International Bus Service 201-714-9400 |
New York City to Mount Ivy |
|
Transport of Rockland 845-634-1100 |
Bus Service in Rockland County |
|
Short Line Buses 201-529-3666 |
New York City to Mountainview |
|
Adirondack Trailways Buses 800-858-8555 |
New York City to New Paltz and the Catskills |
Addresses and Phone Numbers
New York-New Jersey Trail Conference
156 Ramapo Valley Road
Mahwah, NJ 07430-1199
201-512-9348
Palisades Interstate Park Police
845-786-2781
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Region 3 Office - Ulster and Sullivan Counties
21 South Putt Corners Road
New Paltz, NY 12561
845-255-5453
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Region 4 Office - Greene, Schoharie and Delaware Counties
1150 North Westcott Road
Schenectady, New York 12306
518-357-2234
New York State Campground Reservations
1-800-456-CAMP, or
Useful Publications
Fleming, June. The Well Fed Backpacker. Vantage Books, Random House, New York, NY, 1985
Fletcher, Colin. The Complete Walker III. Alfred A. Knopf, Inc., New York, NY, 1984
Hampton, Bruce and David Cole. Soft Paths: How to Enjoy the Wilderness Without Harming It. Stackpole Books, Harrisburg, PA, 1988
Jardine, Ray. Beyond Backpacking, Ray Jardine’s Guide to Lightweight Hiking. AdventureLore Press, LaPine OR 97739, 2000
Manning, Harvey. Backpacking One Step at a Time. Vintage Books, Random House, New York, NY
Meyer, Kathleen. How to Shit in the Woods. Ten Speed Press, Berkeley, CA, 1989
Meyers, William J. Harriman Trails. A Guide and History. New York-New Jersey Trail Conference. New York, NY 1992
New York-New Jersey Trail Conference. New York Walk Book. New York, NY 1998
---------- Hudson Palisades Trails. map set
---------- Harriman Bear Mountain Trails. map set
---------- West Hudson Trails. map set
---------- South Kittatiny Trails. map set
---------- North Jersey Trails. map set
---------- North Kittatiny Trails. map set
---------- Catskills Trails. map set
---------- Appalachian Trail in New York and New Jersey. map set
Schaefer, Vincent J. Vroman’s Nose: Sky Island of the Schoharie County. Purple Mountain Press, Ltd. Fleishmanns, NY 1992.
Waterman, Laura and Guy. Wilderness Ethics: Preserving the Spirit of Wilderness. The Countryman Press, Inc. Woodstock, VT, 1993
---------- Backwoods Ethics: Environmental Issues for Hikers and Campers. The Countryman Press, Inc. Woodstock, VT 1993.
Long Path End-to-Enders
|
1. Albert (Cap) Field, Astoria NY |
?/?/? |
|
2. Edward J. Walsh, W Haverstraw NY |
7/04/91 |
|
3. Stella Green, Woodcliff Lake NJ |
9/02/91 |
|
4. Edward L. Walsh, W Haverstraw NY |
9/08/91 |
|
5. Lanny Wexler, Syosset NY |
9/15/91 |
|
6. George Form, Hempstead NY |
9/15/91 |
|
7. Susan Gerhardt, Suffern NY |
9/21/91 |
|
8. Peter Heckler, Oradell NJ |
9/21/91 |
|
9. James A. Ross, New Milford NJ |
10/06/91 |
|
10. Roy Messaros, Franklin Lakes NJ |
10/09/91 |
|
11. John Golenski, Pearl River NY |
11/17/91 |
|
12. Arthur Schneier, Hyde Park NY |
5/14/92 |
|
13. Mary R. Sive, Ardsley on Hudson NY |
6/11/92 |
|
14. Arnold Projansky, New Paltz NY |
9/05/92 |
|
15. Albert A. Mullen, Highland NY |
5/14/92 |
|
16. Alan Gross, E. Swanzey NH |
1993 |
|
17. Alexander G. Gonzales, Dryden NY |
6/23/94 |
|
18. Jack Hennessey, Naponoch NY |
7/13/94 |
|
19. Joan D. James, Salisbury Mills NY |
7/13/94 |
|
20. Herb Young Jr., Greenwich CT |
8/01/94 |
|
21. Ray Cimera, Wayne NJ |
10/01/94 |
|
22. Dick Hearn, Kinnelon NJ |
10/01/94 |
|
23. Ferdinand Caiocca, New York NY |
9/26/94 |
|
24. Dick Redfield, Riverdale NY |
7/23/95 |
|
25. Eileen West, Pleasantville NY |
7/23/95 |
|
26. Barry Gold, Woodbridge CT |
5/27/95 |
|
27. Bill Pruehsner, Meriden CT |
5/27/95 |
|
28. Marsha Gold, Woodbridge CT |
5/27/95 |
|
29. May Ann Pruehsner, Meriden CT |
5/27/95 |
|
30. Maureen McCahery, New City NY |
4/19/96 |
|
31. Abe T. Allen, Plymouth CT |
1996 |
|
32. Dean Guiliano, Olivebridge NY |
6/08/97 |
|
33. Ernest C. Laug, Stamford, CT |
7/08/97 |
|
34. Kathie F. Laug, Stamford CT |
7/12/97 |
|
35. Margaret Freifeld, Mt. Kisco NY |
8/03/97 |
|
36. Jane Smalley, Briarcliff Manor NY |
7/12/97 |
|
37. Carolyn Harting, Bedford NY |
9/07/97 |
|
38. Roeli Johansson, Bedford Hills NY |
9/29/97 |
|
39. Mirjana V. Djordjevic, White Plains NY |
8/16/97 |
|
40. Fran Levy, Hartsdale NY |
8/22/97 |
|
41. Carole Ehleben, Bedford NY |
9/06/97 |
|
42. June Fait, Long Beach NY |
7/29/97 |
|
43. Virginia McMath, White Plains NY |
9/15/97 |
|
44. Jack Barnes, Mohegan Lake NY |
9/15/97 |
|
45. Barbro Thelemarck, North Salem NY |
9/06/97 |
|
46. Julie Hobart, Bedminster NJ |
8/08/97 |
|
47. Joan McNulty, Croton-on-Hudson NY |
9/06/97 |
|
48. Carol Mantel, Amityville NY |
8/08/97 |
|
49. Jean M. Dolen, North White Plains NY |
8/17/97 |
|
50. Kathy Mario, Yaphank NY |
9/27/97 |
|
51. Herbert J. Coles, Long Beach NY |
7/12/97 |
|
52. Diane Bamford, Bedford NY |
9/06/97 |
|
53. Carl D. Daiker, Middletown NY |
9/11/97 |
|
54. David Zansalari, Bellefonte PA |
9/11/97 |
|
55. James Shearwood, Long Island City NY |
10/12/97 |
|
56. Marry Ann Nissley, Chalfont PA |
5/31/98* |
|
57. Raymond S. Wilkin, Greenville SC |
5/16/99 |
|
58. Donna L. Pasternak, Huntington WV |
9/22/96 |
|
59. Richard Rapold, Maplecrest NY |
9/19/99 |
|
60. Robert W. Novick, New Milford, NJ |
9/29/00 |
|
61. Peter C. McGinnis, Poughkeepsie, NY |
9/30/00 |
|
62. Henry C. Jenkins, Highland, NY |
9/30/00 |
|
63. Rick Taylor, Hopewell Junction, NY |
9/30/00 |
|
64. Alan Householder, Asheville, NC |
5/14/01** |
|
65. Joe Fennelly, Chesire, CT |
5/14/01 |
|
66. Richard K. Greve, Mt Holly, NJ |
6/24/01 |
|
67. Michael Hume, Peekskill, NY |
9/16/01 |
|
68. Violet Davis, Unadilla, NY |
10/19/01 |
|
69. Kay Cynamon, New York, NY |
10/21/01 |
| 70. Roger Mailler |
6/19/02* |
|
71. Kent Bean |
10/23/02* |
|
72. Kurt Ramig |
5/28/03 |
|
73. Lou Baldanza |
5/23/04 |
|
74. David O’Neill |
5/24/05** |
|
75. Bruce Borofsky |
9/02/05 |
|
76. Jane Restani |
10/09/05 |
|
77. Jennifer Reidy |
10/09/05 |
|
78. Patricia Johnston |
10/09/05 |
|
79. Nancy Lentner |
10/09/05 |
|
80. Lilo Hackel |
10/09/05 |
|
81. Fran Resch |
10/09/05 |
|
82. Wolfgang Weisbrod-Weber |
10/09/05 |
|
83. Silvana Leonard |
10/09/05 |
|
84. Diane Grunthal |
10/09/05 |
|
85. Allen Grunthal |
10/09/05 |
|
86. Minu Chaudhuri |
10/09/05 |
|
87. Henry Sengstaken |
10/09/05 |
|
88. Jason Boyd |
10/16/04* |
|
89. Deborah Magocsi |
10/16/04* |
|
90. David Cole |
10/27/05 |
|
91. Tom Stellato |
2/11/06 |
|
92. Charles Lutomski |
2/11/06 |
|
93. Ellen Cronan |
5/28/06 |
|
94. David Koehler |
8/05/06 |
|
95. Stuart Levy |
8/05/06 |
|
96. Chris Corte |
9/02/06* |
|
97. Andy Garrison |
9/03/06 |
|
98. Andrew Garrison |
9/03/06 |
|
99. James Chambers |
10/08/06 |
|
100. Barry Cruttenden |
10/08/06 |
|
101. Harold E. Hill, Jr. |
10/08/06 |
|
102. Carolyn Canfield |
10/29/07 |
|
103. James Canfield |
10/29/07 |
|
104. Elinor King |
10/29/07 |
|
105. Hank Perrine |
10/29/07 |
|
106. Jim Dirlam |
5/17/08* |
|
107. Harold Herring |
8/24/08 * |
|
108. Jacob Aronson |
7/6/09* |
|
109. Carlton E. Windle |
10/09/09 |
|
110. Frank Bradley |
10/25/09 |
|
111. Steven Harty |
10/25/09 |
|
112. John Schmitt |
10/17/10 |
|
113. Jon Meserve |
5/25/10* |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* Completed the hike in a single backpack trip.
** Trail runner.
Feedback Needed!
Please help to keep this guide up to date by sending your comments, observations and suggestions to Ed Walsh, 11 Kwiecinski Street, West Haverstraw, NY 10993-1410 or by e-mail to walshej@aol.com. Thanks and enjoy your hike.
- Printer-friendly version
- Login or register to post comments
- Send by email
