Hike Recommendations

Posted February 28th, 2009 by webmaster

Where should you hike today? Where is a good swimming hole? Are the Mountain Laurel out in Harriman yet? Try searching our hike database but if you don't find the perfect hike, try asking here.

Want to add a hike to our online collection? Click here to learn how and download our Hike Submission Form.

Slide -Cornell-Wittenberg

On August 27th, 2010 JROGG says:

Be prepared! We just did it (2 people) from Denning Road with the intention of going straight through to Terrace Mtn lean-to. There's two difficult spots going down Slide and Cornell. Both need a rope to do them safely. We ran into a problem with attempted bushwack around the Cornell crevice. Bad choice. Lost hiker, Ranger searches, the works. Stay on the trail! Bring that rope, 50 ft ought to do it. Lower your packs down first. Lesson learned aside from the obvious of don't separate; shouting and a whistle does not carry the distance you think in the rain in the forest. When everything is soaked the sound waves are actually absorbed. Conflicts with the old adage of sound carrying better in humid air. True, but is actually muffled by everthing else. We were 100 ft apart and could'nt hear whilstles or shouts. Be safe, the rangers were amazing but you are very far from help up there. Good luck

Slide -Cornell-Wittenberg

On August 27th, 2010 srtmaintainer says:

We too had an adventure with the same starting point (Denning Road) and destination (Terrace Mountain). My son 11 at the time and I encountered waist deep snow on the back side of slide. Beyond that the trail was packed ice with the exception of the south facing cliffs on Cornell. It took us a while getting off Slide and getting up Cornell. After enjoying the view we began to descend the extremely icy trail off of Cornell. We had to lower our packs over a ledge that had a huge ice flow in the crevice. I then wrapped the rope around something secure "Can't remember what" and held both sides of the rope while I went over the cliff a bit off the trail. I secured the rope at the bottom and then brought my son down. At this point it was beginning to get dark so we began to look for a place to camp as we slowly continued on. We wound up leveling off and packing down snow to set the tent up on Cornell. After setting the tent up we ate our dinner as it got dark. Once in the tent, warm and dry, it began to sleet out. It sleeted for a while that night but we stayed warm and dry. We hiked out the next morning over the ice in the pouring rain. This trip was part of our Long Path adventure and it was a great experience. My advice is hope for the best but be prepared for the worst and you too will be guaranteed a fun trip. Andy Garrison

Slide-Cornell-Wittenberg

On August 27th, 2010 JROGG says:

Andy, You're certainly more daring than I. My question is how to do it from the other directioln. I'm 54 and not as limber as I used to be. How do you climb up those tough spots from the other way even with a rope? I'm not a rock climber. Jeff Roggenburg

Slide-Cornell-Wittenberg

On August 27th, 2010 srtmaintainer says:

For us the cliffs did not seem very big, the ice was the problem. I have found hand / foot holds and knobs to grab on all these cliffs that the trails cross. Slide-Cornell-Wittenberg is very popular and highly used trail I would bet someone else could advise you. I have only been across Cornell that one time, it is a lot different when covered with snow and ice. I found the cliffs on the Devil's Path to be much larger.

advice on Slide-Cornell-Wittenberg overnight trip?

On August 24th, 2010 kjsinnyc says:

Greetings all. A friend and I are planning an overnight trip for this weekend.

Saturday morning: start from trailhead on Co. Rd. 47, hike east up to summit of Slide Mountain, lunch, continue east to col between Slide and Cornell. Find spot to camp.

Sunday: continue up to Cornell, then to Wittenberg, then continue east down to Woodland Valley campground.

My questions: Is this reasonable for a two-day trip for two hikers who are fit but not terribly experienced? What are the ladders like down the eastern side of Slide? What are the 15- and 35-foot drops like? Difficult? Let packs down via rope and then scramble down after? What about the Cornell v-shaped notch?

Also, do you think on a beautiful weekend, as it seems this will be, that we'll be overwhelmed with people? Able to find a camping spot on the col between Slide and Cornell? If the camping spots are filled, how difficult will it be to bushwack to a reasonable spot to camp? Should we think of another, easier route altogether?

Thank you, and sorry for all the questions! But I'm grateful for this forum, and hope someone may have some advice. All best, Ken

CWS

On August 25th, 2010 BrianSnat says:

It's definitely do-able for an over nighter. Personally I'd reverse it and start at Woodland Valley. That way you are going up the steep, eastern face of Slide, which I think is easier and safer than going down it.

The trail between the road and Slide is usually packed with hikers, as is the summit on a nice day. Actually the best view from Slide is at the spring just below the summit on the eastern slope. Once you go over the summit the crowds thin out considerably, though you probably won't be alone on Wittenberg.

I don't recall any ladders or 15 or 35 ft drops on the eastern slope of Slide and I've done it half a dozen times (though not in the past 10 years or so). It is steep but no worse than most Catskill summit trails (but as I stated I'd rather go up it with a pack than down it).

I've never encountered more than maybe 3 other groups camped in the Cornell/Slide col. Even if it is crowded (which is unlikely) you should be able to scout around off trail until you find a suitable spot to make camp.

Water may be an issue this time of year. There is a wet area in the col in rainy seasons where the water is deep enough to filter but in the summer it is pretty dry.

The spring on the eastern slope of Slide has always been pretty reliable though. Last time I was there it was late summer and there was a drought and it was still running. You might want to tank up there.

CWS

On August 25th, 2010 kjsinnyc says:

Thank you very much, Brian! I'd rather do what you suggest--start in the east--too, but I'm limited by the hospitality of the people giving us a ride in their car. I'll see what I can do--I'd rather climb up with a pack, too. Thanks for all other advice, too. Much obliged! Ken

CWS

On August 26th, 2010 BrianSnat says:

It's a great trip, I think you'll enjoy it.

weekend success

On August 30th, 2010 kjsinnyc says:

Thanks again, Brian, for your advice. We did indeed start from Woodland Valley and hiked west over Wittenberg, Cornell, and Slide. Camped in a designated spot between Cornell and Slide. No problems at all, except for what I thought was a mistake on the new NY/NJ TC map--a missing water source that caused an hour's delay when we were sorely in need of water as the sun was setting. That was a little dicey. You never realize how much you want water than when you really need it. Other than that, an uneventful trip. The scrambles up Cornell weren't that bad; Slide somehow felt worse, but maybe because it was day two. Thanks again!

AT Wayawanda - High Point

On August 20th, 2010 WillWeb says:

New here. My wife and I are planning to hike the AT between High Point and Wayawanda next weekend. We have the 2007 AT map and the 1991 Guide. Are we restricted to camping at the shelters or are there other places we can set up our tent along the way? What are conditions like at the shelters? Any other issues we should know about? Thanks, Will

AT Wayawanda - High Point

On August 21st, 2010 srtmaintainer says:

I backpacked that section of the AT with my son in 2005, he was ten. When we hiked it was very hot and humid, yet the backpacking went rather easy. This area in our opinion was mostly easy with a few moderate spots. The boardwalk is awesome and so was the homemade ice cream at the farm stand next to the trail at route 94. I think you will find your hike very enjoyable through this area, unless of course it's a difficult hike you're looking for. Andy Garrison

AT High Point to Wawayanda

On August 20th, 2010 Gene Giordano says:

Happy to hear you will be hiking this section, which I am sure you will find very interesting and full of variety. Camping is restricted to shelter sites with the exception that arrangements can be made with the town of Unionville NY to camp in their town park. As you know from your guide book the shelters are a good hike away from each other but certainly doable for most seasoned backpackers in a day's hike. All of our shelter sites are nice with ample room for setting up a tent nearby. Your tent should be within view of the shelter, it does not need to be set up right next to it. Please be sure to use the bear boxes near the shelters as bears are very active in this area. Your food should be secure, we have not had any problems. Be sure to keep all foods away from your tent. Cook and eat away from your tent. All shelter sites have privies. No fires are permitted. Water will be scarce between High Point and Pochuck. Be sure to fill up with water at the Pochuck water source which will be marked and is a faucet on the back of a house. I would recommend filtering all water taken from streams and ponds. A water faucet is also available near the Wawyayanda shelter, past shelter follow signs to park office and faucet is on the maintenance building. It will be about a half mile hike total there and back to the shelter. Enjoy!

Parking

On August 21st, 2010 WillWeb says:

Thanks, Gene. We were thinking of leaving our car at Wawayanda and getting a shuttle to High Point. WhiteBlaze has a posting from a couple years ago about not being allowed to leave a car in the park, and another of a car being vandalized at the Warwick Turnpike parking lot. Any suggestions on where to leave the car, or for a good shuttle?

parking

On August 21st, 2010 Gene Giordano says:

There is an AT overnight parking area at Wawayanda State Park. You will need to go into the park office to register and let them know you are leaving the car. The parking area is near the office, they will tell you where to park. Many people leave their cars on Warwick Turnpike with no problems, certainly vandalization is possible but it is not the norm anywhere along the NJAT. I definitely recommend leaving the car in the AT overnight lot within the park. There is also an overnight lot at High Point. Can't recommend a shuttle service. Gene Giordano NJAT Management Committee, Chair

Shortline bus to Arden

On August 18th, 2010 Michael K7 says:

Is anyone familiar with the Shortline bus that goes on Route 17 through Arden and Harriman?
I was thinking of doing a hike that started at Bear Mountain and ended in Arden, but i cannot find specific info on that stop. THe Shortline site is of no help.
Specifically, i'm looking for the evening schedule (if there is one) that will get me from Arden to Grand Central. Also, does anyone know if there is a "marked" bus stop at Arden, or is it a guessing game figuring out where the bus is going to stop?
Thanks for any help!

Shortline bus to Arden

On August 19th, 2010 scope says:

I would imagine that any bus shown in the timetable as calling at Harriman RR station would call at Arden a few minutes later. I have got off the bus at Arden several times but never on. There is no marked stop - the bus stops (at least going north) at the junction with Arden Valley road. I quite often do a day hike across the park from Manitou Metro-North station to Tuxedo at weekends. Tuxedo is a bit further than Arden but the route is not as hilly so may not take too much longer. The route via 1777-RedX-beech-LP-Lake Sebago-Tuxedo Mt Ivy gets me to Tuxedo in time for the 1840 train to Hoboken. Further than Arden but at least you have somewhere more comfortable and reliable at the end of the trip.

Thanks

On August 19th, 2010 Michael K7 says:

Thank you for your reply. I didn't notice the Harriman stop as being listed until you mentioned it, and what you said makes sense, although i'm not sure if i want to "chance it" until i have more confirmation.
I realize that Tuxedo (or even Harriman) train station is an option, but i was hoping to do this hike on the northern trails (most of it being on the LP), since i haven't hiked often in that part of Harriman, and while i love the Tuxedo trails, i could probably hike most of them in my sleep at this point. Also, i would prefer to end the hike at Rt 17 instead of having to hike up Agony Grind and the Sapphire Trail after hiking all day. Last time i hiked from Tuxedo to Harriman, i almost gave myself heat stroke going up AG!
I appreciate the response though!

Northern Harriman

On August 20th, 2010 scope says:

If you want to cross northern harriman, then after Bear Mountain (either to the north, south, or over the top) you could join up with the LP across to Central Valley. It is then a 20 minute hike to Woodbury Commons from where there are frequent (at weekends almost continual) buses back to Port Authority.

Sweet!

On August 20th, 2010 Michael K7 says:

Thanks, that's a great idea.
I wonder how the shoppers will enjoy having me on their bus after i've been hiking and sweating all day? ;)

Thank you so much for all

On August 13th, 2010 SEEB says:

Thank you so much for all the suggestions, it has been extremely helpful! Seeb

B & Bs in Harriman

On August 7th, 2010 stacycat says:

There used to be the Bear Mountain Inn, but it's been closed for several years. Not exactly a B & B, but a place one could stay and eat. Does anyone know anything about whether they plan to reopen it any time in the near future?

Bear Mt accommodations

On August 20th, 2010 PVPatrick says:

The Bear Mt Inn will be repoened some day, the date just keeps changing with funding problems. There are accommodations at Bear Mt at the Overlook Lodge at the north end of Hessian Lake. There are motel-like rooms and rustic cottages for larger groups.

I am looking for a rather specific type of hiking trip

On August 6th, 2010 SEEB says:

Hi, I am looking for a rather specific type of hiking trip and that is why I thought maybe I could use your expertise. I am a young female (30) and although I have not done professional hiking, I am in great shape for long and strenuous walks and hikes. I live in Brooklyn and, like most people here, I do not own a car. I would like to make hiking more of a habit of mine, at least during the warm months of the year, and I simply cannot afford to rent a car every time. Most of the time I will be hiking alone and I would love to find a scenic day-long hiking trail that would take me to an evening accommodation for an overnight stay, with a small supper and early breakfast for the next day to travel back. This might be too good to be true, but I would really appreciate it if you could pass along any suggestions to me. Thanks, Seeb

Greetings Seeb, Might I

On August 7th, 2010 JROGG says:

Greetings Seeb, Might I suggest you check out meetup.com. New hiking clubs are constantly being formed. Many fellow hikers are happy to car pool or perhaps would meet you at Port Authority and such. I most recently belonged to hudsonhikers.org which is now the northeast chapter of the ADK. Also all nice people and perhaps could accomadate a ride. Last week I was on a group hike in Minnewaska State Park, a 2 hour drive from the city. There were people from all over the place with us including the city. I'm sure you'll find some like minded folk with similar transport issues. I'll inquire with last weeks leader and see if there's anyone from the city who can help you out. JR

Meetup

On August 12th, 2010 BrianSnat says:

Ditto on the meetup.com suggestion. The NY Backpackers Club is a good one and has many NYC members, They run all kinds of trips from peak bagging in the Rockies and Adirondacks, to day hikes in the NYC area. They are very active and because so many members are from NYC, trips are planned with either car pooling or public transit in mind.

What kind of accommodation

On August 6th, 2010 Michael K7 says:

Do you want a trail with an overnight shelter to camp out in, or do you want a trail that passes near a motel/B&B type place?

Since I would rather not

On August 7th, 2010 SEEB says:

Since I would rather not carry that much with me, It would be nice to rest at a B&B or an Inn overnight. Thanks

Okay

On August 7th, 2010 Michael K7 says:

Okay then, since my hiking is limited to Harriman and the East Hudson areas, here is what i would suggest:
Take Metro North to Beacon. Spend some time hiking the trails on South Beacon Mountain and Fishkill Ridge, then hike on the Breakneck Ridge Trail down to the Cold Spring area. Spend some time hiking the trails around Cold Spring if you want. There are one or two B&B's in Cold Spring to stay at, and a few places to eat. In the morning you can hike in the opposite direction, or if you are feeling adventurous, take the train from Cold Spring to Garrison, and spend the day hiking the trails near Garrison.
If you get the East Hudson Trails map set from the TC, you'll be able to see all the different trails available in these areas.
I don't know of any inns/B&B's along the trails i've hiked in Harriman, but if i learn of any, i will let you know.
Have fun!

Looking for to do our first overnight

On August 5th, 2010 j0hn says:

Hello all! My buddy and I are looking to do our first overnight sometime this in late August or early September. We are two young men in good shape and have completed many Bear Mountain and Harriman Trails. For our first overnight we were hoping to do a trip in the Catskills (but not limited to this area) with some good views, plentiful water sources, not very crowded, and a well marked trail. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks John

Catskill Overnight

On August 5th, 2010 BrianSnat says:

I assume you mean just one night. Water will be an issue in late August. Many of the smaller streams and springs will be dry unless we get some rain. Here's a suggestion with good views and plentiful water. Indian Head Mt and Echo Lake. Park on Prediger Rd just off of Platte Clove Rd. Take the Devils Path to the Jimmy Dolan Notch trail. At the end of Jimmy Dolan Notch You'll then catch the Devils Path again and take it east over Indian Head Mt, to take in several outstanding views. Then descend Indian Head and take the Overlook Mt trail south to Echo Lake. There will be plenty of water there. Next day retrace your steps on the Overlook Mt trail, and catch the Devils Path back to your car. I don't have my map in front if me, but it's about an 8 or 9 mile RT. That might not sound like a lot for two days, but Indian Head is a pretty rugged hike and will take a lot more time than you think, especially with full packs

thanks!

On August 5th, 2010 j0hn says:

Thanks for taking the time to put that all into words for me. To answer your question: Yes, one night. I just purchased the Catskill map pack today and am going to map it all out. How is camping in those parts? Is there enough trees to hang a jungle hammock, or at all possible to camp a scenic view? Thanks agin

Camping

On August 12th, 2010 BrianSnat says:

You can camp pretty much anywhere you like in the Catskills as long as it's at least 150 feet from water, road or trail and below 3,000 feet, There are a few exceptions including shelters and some sites marked with small, yellow "camp here" signs. Echo Lake is a pretty enough place to camp. There is a shelter there close to the water and some sites around the lake that I suspect are illegal because they are too close to water. There should definitely be enough trees to hang a jungle hammock throughout the Catskills. Another potential hike is Slide Mt and the Neversink River. Take the Phonecia East Branch trail to the Neversink valley. You can then make camp there, then complete a day hike over Slide by using a distinct, but unofficial trail along the river where you can catch the Cornell-Wittenberg-Slide (CWS) trail in col between Slide and Cornell Mt. The map shows the unoffical trail ending before it reaches CWS, but in reality it meets up with the CWS trail. Then take the CWS over Slide. Great view from the spring just before the summit. Nice spot for lunch and it won't be crowded the way the summit will be. Then you can hop on the Curtis Ormsby trail, then catch the Phonecia East Branch back to your campsite. Then you can pack out the next morning, after sleeping in and having a leisurely breakfast.

Looking for 3 Day Backpacking Trip in North NJ/Southern NY Area

On August 1st, 2010 George Collier says:

Hi Guys!

I'm looking for a three day backpack trip in the North NJ, Southern NY area in the late September timeframe.

I would like to avoid carrying a whole day of water so an area with some sources would be good (I have a filter). Also would like to avoid crowded areas. I will have a leashed dog with me.

I was thinking of an out and back on the AT (say starting at Culver's Gap and heading North) but would love some suggestions.

I have been on tens of backpacking trips in the past (including winter trips and a number I have planned) and walk about 40 miles/week so OK fitness but its been a while since I backpacked in this area.

Thanks!

George

Looking for 3 day backpack trip in the North NJ/Southern NY area

On August 1st, 2010 srtmaintainer says:

You could pretty much avoid the crowds on the Shawangunk Ridge Trail. Water can be found and plenty of legal primitive camping opportunities now exist on the SRT between Greenville Turnpike and Route 52. The SRT is about 43 miles long at this time, I would be glad to help you plan a trip on the SRT. The description of the SRT in the Long Path guide is outdated, check out the SRT map on this website. Andy Garrison

Thanks!

On August 1st, 2010 George Collier says:

Andy, That sounds pretty interesting particularly avoiding the crowds. I glanced at the maps. I live in North Hunterdon New Jersey (Chester/Clinton area) and so would be driving from there. Tell me more! George Collier

Your welcome

On August 1st, 2010 srtmaintainer says:

Check your email. give me a call tomorrow evening if you want. Andy

Wanted: easy Bear Mt/AT hike

On August 1st, 2010 ZoomWhoosh says:

My parents (in their mid 80s) really want to hike the AT near Bear Mountain. I'm looking for some suggested hikes that are easy, fairly short (I'd say 5 miles at most, 3 is probably better), and include at least some of the time on the AT itself. Ideally, I'd like to find a path that begins and ends at two different places where we can park cars, but a loop would be OK, too. As a last resort, we'd settle for an out-and-back hike.

Also, is there a good source for maps that show not only trails but also show all road crossings and parking availability?

Maps

On August 1st, 2010 Michael K7 says:

The best source for maps is right here at the TC. Get the Hariman/Bear Mountain set, and you will have plenty of hikes to choose from.

public transportation hike

On July 30th, 2010 jeffs says:

to answer kara, i would choose the AT. there are many spots that you can access by bus.one of them being the greenwood lake area near the ny/nj border. feel free to email me at jeffstoveken@yahoo.com.

Schunemunk preferences

On July 7th, 2010 RichardL says:

Which way do you like better, and why? To ascend from the tracks, via the: Jessup Trail, or, Tressle Trail? To descend the: Dark Hollow Trail, or, Sweet Clover Trail? Thanks, Richard

Overnight Hike Bear Mtn Inn to West Mountain Shelter

On July 2nd, 2010 DragonBall says:

Hi, I am going on an overnight hike tomorrow from Bear Mountain Inn and camping at the West Mountain Shelter; and then hike out on Day 2 heading south east on the Timp Torne to finish on the west side of US9W south of the intersection with Old Ayers Rd. Q1: Do you think it's feasible to go over Bear Mountain (via Major Welch) and south on the AT to reach West Mountain Shelter in a day (we going to start at about 10.30am since we are taking the ShortLine Bus). Or, should we take the S-BM trail instead and avoid going over Bear Mountain? [We are two relatively fit people in early 30s with some hiking experience]. Q2: Is there any water en route? ie from the brook running southwest from the Doodletown Reservoir that crosses the S-BM and Timp-Torne? Or, where is the closest water stop? Q3: At the end of the Timp-torne trail, does the Short Line bus stop to pick up passengers (bound for NY) at the intersection with Old Ayers Road (which leads to Jones point) and US 9W? The Shortline bus service have given me mixed answers! Thanks for your help.

Yes, you should be able to

On July 3rd, 2010 Paul_A says:

Yes, you should be able to go over Bear Mountain and still reach the West Mountain Shelter in the time frame you've suggested. Don't forget, the days are long and daylight extends into the evening. And if that's not long enough, carry a headlamp or other light, and finish your hike after dark.

Labyrinth/Lemon Squeeze (Gunks) hike route

On June 22nd, 2010 denali2001 says:

Planning to ride bikes to Mohonk Preserve area and do the Labyrinth/Lemon Squeeze hike. I understand there is a carriage road approach to the climb. Any route description I can find online? Also, any good place to lock up our bikes before the hike? Thanks.

Hudson hiking

On June 14th, 2010 JROGG says:

Storm King just north of West Point is a good one, Trail map 113. Another idea is to follow The Long Path from the GW bridge. Much of it follows the Hudson.

Need hike recommendations

On June 11th, 2010 bpickard1@twcny... says:

I am new to this site and to the hiking trails. I am looking for easy to moderate hiking trails near the hudson and/or views of the Manhattan skyline. I am about 3 hours away, so I'd like it to be a day adventure. Thanks.

The Long Path is along the

On June 12th, 2010 Paul_A says:

The Long Path is along the top of the Palisades and the Shore Trail is at the bottom of the Palisades, right along the west bank of the Hudson River. You can find the map you need at www.nynjtc.org/product/hudson-palisades-trails

See NYNJTC Hudson Palisades Map Set

On June 12th, 2010 PVPatrick says:

HIke along the top of the Palisades or the shores of the Hudson River from George Washington Bridge or many parking spots along the route to the NY NJ state line.

High altitude easy to moderate hike

On June 11th, 2010 hschil says:

I have been suffering from tension headshakes and it seems that high altitudes helps relieve the pain sometimes. I am not new to walking, but I am new to hiking would appreciate recommendations within 60 miles or so to NYC. Thanks, Howard

High altitude hike

On June 14th, 2010 JROGG says:

I "highly" recommend Peekamoose Mountain in the catskils. It's a 2 hour drive from northern jersey and well worth the drive. Take exit 19 off the thruway to rt 28 then 28A then to rt 42. Parking was easy and kudos to the maintaineer who recently went through (I was there yesterday). The south to north route elevation starts at 1300' then a gradual 3 mile trek to 3800'. Although I haven't yet done the north to south route from Denning Road that looks like it might be more to your liking since it seems to start at 2300' elevation. The drive looks to be much longer to go around to the north side though. Get the trail map #43 in the catskill set. Believe me you'll love this hike.

High altitude hike

On June 16th, 2010 hschil says:

thanks for the recommendation. I will try it within the next few weeks.

AddThis

90 Years, 1,700 Miles

Support Hiking Trails!

Trail & Hike Finder

Follow

Navigation

Hike Recommendations

Feedback