Hike of the Week 3/06/2003

Description:

From the northwest corner of the parking lot, near a small wooden building, follow the ski trails (marked by a sign), heading west. Soon, you’ll reach a junction where Trails A and B separate from Trails C and D. Turn right, following Trails C and D, which soon begin to descend. Although the grades are moderate for hiking and snowshoeing, there are a number of relatively sharp curves, and the grades are rather steep for cross-country skiing.

At the base of the descent, the trail crosses a stone-faced culvert over a stream. Soon, it reaches a Y-intersection, where the two ski trails separate. Bear right, following Trail C, which descends slightly to cross another culvert and then goes up a little to reach an abandoned concrete road. This wide roadway was built in 1926 as a New Jersey state highway (it was subsequently designated US 9W), but it was abandoned in the 1950s when the Palisades Interstate Parkway was constructed.

Turn right and follow the wide road for about 100 feet, then bear left onto Trail E (marked by a sign). This ski trail proceeds north, parallel to the old concrete road, then bears right (east) and begins to climb on moderate grades that are not difficult for hiking but can be challenging for cross-country skiing. Soon, it reaches a junction with another trail – the route of the aqua-blazed Long Path.

Follow Ski Trail E as it bends very sharply to the right and begins to run parallel to the Palisades cliffs. Especially in the winter, there are views through the trees over the Hudson River. The trail climbs a little more, then descends slightly and bears right, away from the river. In about half a mile from the sharp bend, it rejoins the old Route 9W. Bear left and follow the abandoned roadway southward. You’re now once again close to the edge of the cliffs, with excellent views to the left of the road.

A short distance ahead, you’ll reach the State Line Lookout. To the left, Point Lookout offers an outstanding vista over the river, both north and south, with the Tappan Zee Bridge visible to the north. Lookout Inn, where refreshments, books and maps are available, is directly across the road, and the parking lot where you began the hike is just beyond.

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