All trail hikes are a short distance from the press conference site. A short ride to trail head is necessary for most. Follow hike leader for chosen trail. Bring plenty of water and food. Use a day pack, wear sturdy shoes or boots, include hat and sun screen. Four hikes are listed below:
Leader, Bob Moss - New York-New Jersey Trail Conference
Enjoy two great viewpoints on the Highlands Trail from Hewitt to Harrison Mtn., going along Horsepond Mtn. See a spectacular 360 degree panorama, offering views of Monksville Reservoir, north to Sterling Forest and Harriman Park, and south to the Highlands Trail corridor in New Jersey continuing over Board Mtn., Bear Mtn. and Windbeam.
Trail from Beech Road to Long Pond Ironworks State Historic Site - about 5 miles
Leader, Wilma Frey - New Jersey Conservation Foundation
The trail begins with a woods road leading to the Sterling Ridge Trail. North is Big Beech Mountain viewpoint that provides open vistas of the New Jersey Wyanokie Mountains and the reservoir system. Heading back south, the Sterling Ridge Trail ends at the site of the historic Long Pond Ironworks.
Monks Trail - about 2 miles
Leaders, Todd & MaryPat Schreibman - New York-New Jersey Trail Conference
The Monks Trail in Long Pond Iron Works State Park offers hikers a pleasant jaunt through varied terrain, including a fabulous view over the Monksville Reservoir. An easy hike with some steep decents.
Leader, Phil L'Hommedieu - New Jersey Chapter Sierra Club
A round-trip hike along the Cooper Union Trail offers spectacular views over the Wanaque Reservoir. An easy hike that includes a short steep decent and a traverse up a rocky ledge.
For more information or directions, contact NY-NJ Trail Conference (212) 685-9699.