Trail Conference Celebrates Major Restoration of the Long Path
Lace up your hiking boots—the trail is officially open!
On Saturday, September 6, we gathered with our Long Distance Trails Crew (LDTC), partners from the Palisades Interstate Park Commission (PIPC), and members of the outdoor community to celebrate a landmark achievement: the completion of a multi-year restoration project of the iconic Long Path at Tallman Mountain in Sparkill, New York.
Spirits were high as we broke out the ribbon and scissors for a grand reopening in Tallman Mountain State Park. The festive day marked far more than just the official unveiling of a revitalized trail—it was a celebration of partnership, perseverance, and the power of community-driven conservation.
Over the course of three years, our all-volunteer LDTC team worked together with the PIPC to tackle the monumental task of rebuilding this heavily worn section of the Long Path. Using only traditional hand tools and rigging, trail builders moved mammoth stone slabs into place, constructing an improved pathway designed to withstand heavy rainfall and high-volume foot traffic.
The result? A safer, more resilient route along New York’s premier long-distance trail—one that honors the legacy of the Long Path while improving access to the outdoors and preserving the breathtaking scenery of the Hudson River.
Here’s a closer look at the restoration project:
- More than 50 volunteers contributed 9,000+ volunteer hours of service.
- The improved pathway boasts 212 stone steps, each weighing between 300 to 600 pounds, placed along 1,300 square feet of stone retaining wall.
- Trail builders included rest spots in the trail design where visitors can stop and take in sweeping views over the Hudson River.
- Throughout the project, trail builders used locally sourced stone from neighboring state parks in collaboration with PIPC staff who assisted with delivery.
The Trail Conference is proud to celebrate this milestone with our partners, and grateful for everyone who joined us on this festive day—including Rockland County Legislator Dr. Dana Stilley, Orangetown Supervisor Teresa Kenny, and Deputy Mayor of the Village of Piermont Mark Blomquist. We’re also beyond thankful to the mighty Long Distance Trails Crew, who led the way with grit, determination, expertise, and plenty of good laughs.
The next time you find yourself out on the Long Path in Tallman Mountain State Park, take a moment to enjoy the view and appreciate the spirit of community that keep these trails thriving.
The New York–New Jersey Trail Conference proudly maintains all 358 miles of the Long Path. Ready to help protect this legendary long-distance trail? Click below to get involved and make a lasting impact.
