Ask a Builder One Last Hike Why build stairs on a trail Cancer couldn’t stop Keith through the woods? Lyons from sharing a final It's all about sustainability. camping trip with his godson. READ MORE ON PAGE 7 READ MORE ON PAGE 9

Spring 2015 - Trail Conference — Connecting People with Nature since 1920 www.nynjtc.org New York-New Jersey Trail Conference Opens New Headquarters at Darlington Schoolhouse

By Jennifer Easterbrook and Alice Luddington-Cantor PEOPLE FOR

new chapter in the Trail Confer - ence’s 94-year history begins April 7, A when a ribbon-cutting ceremony completes the move into the new head - quarters at the Darlington Schoolhouse in Mahwah, New Jersey. The Trail Confer - ence has worked with many partners since 2004 to acquire, stabilize, restore, and repurpose the 124-year-old historical land - mark, which borders the Ramapo Valley County Reservation and now helps to serve Susan and Howard Reed the organization’s goal of protecting and Montague, NJ R A

promoting access to the outdoors. “While G P A

this day has been a long time coming, I Y If you’ve ever hiked up Stokes M E

don’t regret taking care, every step of the R State Forest, odds are good E J way, to build a headquarters that represents Visit the Trail Conference’s new headquarters at the restored Darlington Schoolhouse you’ve hiked on a trail our values and enables us to better accom - at 600 Ramapo Valley Road in Mahwah, NJ. maintained by Susan and plish our mission of connecting people Howard Reed. with nature,” said Edward Goodell, Trail inal 4,400-square-foot schoolhouse and scheduled for Saturday, September 12 to Conference executive director. construction of a 3,700-square-foot, two- acknowledge the supporters, builders, and How they met: This dynamic With meticulous attention to detail, the story addition. In March, electricians, friends who made this remarkable restora - trail-maintaining duo first met schoolhouse was restored in two phases: plumbers, and painters put the finishing tion a reality. As the organization enters its back in 1995, when Susan Phase 1, completed in 2012, included touches on the headquarters building at 95th year, the new headquarters will be the decided to go hiking. In search structural stabilization, exterior renovation, 600 Ramapo Valley Road. In a concerted cornerstone from which the Trail Confer - of a new path, she got her hands climate control, and utilities, while Phase 2 effort by staff and volunteers, equipment ence builds its second century of serving on a copy of Trail Walker that involved the interior renovation of the orig - and files were officially moved in from the the region by making public lands more featured an organized hike rented office just up the road, where the accessible. For events related to the head - on the Paulinskill Valley Trail Find out how we made our new Trail Conference had maintained opera - quarters grand opening in September and in Stokes. While out on that headquarters accessible to all on tions since 2001. Everyone is invited to 95th anniversary in October, follow us on fateful hike, she met her future our blog: http://blog-dsh.nynjtc.org. stop by the new headquarters to purchase Facebook and Twitter and watch the Trail husband, Howard. Read about the Arts and Crafts maps, books, and memberships, sign up for Conference website and E-Walker, our Finding love… and a sense of inspiration behind the original volunteer opportunities and workshops, or electronic newsletter. Click “Get Our E- duty: After getting married in Darlington Schoolhouse on page 7. simply learn more about the organization. newsletter” button on the website if you are 1997, Susan and Howard decided A day-long grand opening ceremony is not already a subscriber. to give back to the trails that introduced them to each other; in 2003, they started maintaining trails in Stokes. At The Weekly Forced March one point, they were looking By Hank Osborn, East Hudson after one third of all the trails in Program Coordinator ! They’ve Getting kids to disconnect since backed down a little bit, Almost every weekend, year-round, my wife but still maintain Cartwright and I enjoy a good hike with our adolescent from technology and Trail, Coursen Trail, Stoll Trail, children. We love our local trails, the exercise, reconnect with nature. Tibbs Trail, and Stony Lake Trail. and getting out into nature. The children do not share our views. They require encourage - Tools of the trade: You can often ment to join us every time. They actually ized and highly powerful in-your-face-tech - find this team hard at work on enjoy each hike, every weekend, but then nology. The children would rather sit their trails—Howard with his they seem to forget by the following Saturday around on the couch and zone out on their repurposed pack full of tools, or Sunday that they had fun in the woods. iDevices then walk through the woods—or and Susan with her electrician’s There seems to be a powerful force affecting do anything at all. belt for blazing. (Susan’s secret:

N The belt’s magnetic pockets help their memory and motivation. It takes cajoling. We have to repeat our - R O B

We have to work to get the children out selves and be firm and not give in to their S keep the metal nails safe until O

K

of the house. They resist us. “Do we have desperate offers to negotiate. “I’ll go on the N needed.) Howard’s “new” A to go? Can I stay here? I went last week - hike if I don’t have to do the dishes tonight. H favorite tool is the Silky Saw, Without iPhones, Lila and Callie take a which was introduced to this pair end.” To which we respond, “Yes, you went I’ll walk the dog if you let me skip the hike. break during a hike they thoroughly by their trail chair, Howie last weekend and you loved it; and no, you I can’t hike now, I just took a shower, can enjoyed on Fishkill Ridge. cannot stay home; and yes, you have to we do it later?” To which we respond: Liebmann. come on the hike today.” “Nope. No, and no—get in the car now.” screens in the car.” There is often surpris - Keep an eye out: Howard and I think our children are representative of We drive to the local trailhead, unload ingly little fuss at this request—except for Susan say they haven’t spotted many kids in this modern age of miniatur - ourselves, and announce, “leave your the consistent rebuttal of, “but we need our as many bears as they once saw phones to take pictures.” To which we VOLUME XLII, N UMBER 2 ISSN 0749-1352 in Stokes State Forest. They’re respond: “Sorry. Let’s go.” happy to point out the signs of The next hurdle is the hiking-through- the porcupine on the trail, the-woods part—and guess what? The however. Another likely sighting: children love it! They laugh and run and the Reeds hard at work on their smile and joke and play and absolutely trails. enjoy themselves. See the accompanying photos as proof. Sometimes we hike a loop, other times continued on page 4 Page 2 Spring 2015 Preserved Greenspace in Chester Creates a Safer Highlands Trail VOLUME XLII, NO.2 SPRING 2015 AMBER RAY EDITOR By Sona Mason, West Hudson LOU LEONARDIS GRAPHIC DESIGNER the Highlands Trail (HT) in Chester to be Program Coordinator rerouted from an unsettling road walk onto TRAIL WALKER (USPS Permit #970-100) Another wonderful victory for land conser - a preserved area. (ISSN 0749-1352) is published quarterly by the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference as a vation is unfolding this year: A 400-acre For years, the land at Laroe and Bull Mill benefit of membership. Subscriptions are parcel that abuts the southern portion of roads was slated to be the 222-unit residen - available to libraries only at $15.00 a year. Goose Pond Mountain will forever remain tial development Chester Golf, which Periodical postage paid at Mahwah, N.J., and additional offices. Postmaster: Send address undeveloped, thanks to the work of the would have marred the viewshed of this

Open Space Institute (OSI), the New York- rural community and intensified traffic N

changes to the address below. Opinions O S

expressed by authors do not necessarily represent A

New Jersey Trail Conference, New York along an already precarious road walk for M

the policy or position of the Conference. A State Parks, the town planning board of the Highlands Trail. Area residents, led by N O

Contributions of typed manuscripts, photos, S and drawings are welcome. Manuscripts may be Chester, NY, and concerned citizens in the Preservation Collective’s Tracy Schuh edited for style and length. Send SASE for Chester. This acquisition is an important and supported by the Trail Conference, help close the gaps along the HT, which writers’ guidelines. Submission deadlines for the step in creating an uninterrupted greenway objected and petitioned the town planning runs for over 150 miles from the Delaware TRAIL WALKER are February 2 (Spring issue), connection between Goose Pond Moun - board to reconsider. After many months of Water Gap in New Jersey, across the Hud - May 4 (Summer issue), August 3 (Fall issue), November 2 (Winter issue). Unsolicited tain and Sterling Forest State negotiations, OSI bought the parcel on son River in New York, and on through to contributions cannot be acknowledged unless Park. It also allows a significant portion of Christmas Eve 2014, and plans to transfer the border. accompanied by SASE. For information on it to the NYS Parks over the next few years. The Trail Conference’s Highlands Trails advertising rates, please write or call. Copyright 2015 by: Called Goose Pond South in the interim, Chair Glen Oleksak scouted the parcel New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, Inc. this land serves the overarching goal of the extensively and flagged a new, sustainable 600 Ramapo Valley Road (Rt. 202) Trail Conference, OSI, and NYS Parks to route for the HT, which he and volunteers Mahwah, NJ 07430 create a continuous greenway and wildlife blazed with the trail’s characteristic aqua dia - 201-512-9348 migration corridor connecting parks such monds on the first public hike through the email: [email protected] editorial email: [email protected] as Sterling Forest, Schunnemunk, Black property on February 21. Jennifer Garofali - World Wide Web: www.nynjtc.org Rock Forest, and Storm King. Members of ni of OSI co-led the hike, sharing the history the Trail Conference’s Conservation Com - of the property acquisition as well as the mittee are in the process of negotiating organization’s vision for the region. land purchases or trail easements with We’re welcoming all who are interested owners of undeveloped property to achieve in being further involved with the High - this objective. lands Trail reroute to help us build it and In the meantime, Goose Pond South is place it on the ground this summer. For open to the public, with a small parking lot more information or to sign up to help cre - Mission Statement off Bull Mill Road in the works. OSI ate this new trail link, contact West The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference is a installed a kiosk with map at the entrance Hudson Program Coordinator Sona federation of member clubs and individuals dedicated to providing recreational hiking to the Highlands Trail, which is now Mason at [email protected] or 201-512- opportunities in the region, and representing the planned to join the at 9348 ext. 16. interests and concerns of the hiking community. Bellvale Ridge in Sterling Forest. This will The Conference is a volunteer-directed public service organization committed to: • Developing, building, and maintaining hiking trails. A Legacy of • Protecting hiking trail lands through support and advocacy. • Educating the public in the responsible Advocacy use of trails and the natural environment. By Peter Dolan, New Jersey Board of Directors Program Coordinator Chris Connolly Chair Edward Saiff Vice Chair I would venture to guess that very few Richard Levine Treasurer people have advocacy spring to mind as Patricia Wooters Secretary one of the major functions of the Trail Directors Daniel Chazin Gaylord Holmes Conference, and yet nothing could be Walter Daniels Richard Katzive closer to the heart of what we do. A histo - Charlotte Fahn John Magerlein Andrew Garrison Elizabeth Ravit ry of the Trail Conference published 20 Suzan Gordon David Stuhr years ago, “Vistas & Visions,” opens with Daniel Hoberman Edward Whitney the following quote: Staff “This trip last Sunday made us realize Edward Goodell Executive Director Joshua Howard Deputy Executive how blessed we are, who live in this big met - Director ropolitan area, to have so near at hand for Don Weise Development our constant enjoyment so many beautiful Director mountains and trails. And I am afraid that Melissa McCutcheon Operations & Finance Director as we go over the trails, we forget that it is Linda Rohleder Land Stewardship the hard work of a few that makes possible Director Volunteer Sam Huber appreciates a waterfall along the . the enjoyment by many.” For a full list of staff visit —Angelique Rivolier, Director of the www.nynjtc.org/content/staff Inkowa Outdoor Club, describing a hike on The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference is a Tell NJ lawmakers Sundays should remain hunting-free. a new section of the Appalachian Trail near volunteer, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. It is Visit www.nynjtc.org/issue/sunday-hunting-new-jersey for details. Sterling Forest, April 1930 a federation of 103 hiking and outdoor groups, and 10,000 individuals. continued on page 11

printed on recycled content paper PLEASE RECYCLE TRAIL WALKER Nominations for Board, Delegates-at-Large Call for Volunteer Award Nominations The Trail Conference Nominating Committee invites nominations for membership on the Board of Directors and Delegates-at-Large. The Do you know someone who has qualifications for Board of Directors are current membership in the done an outstanding job as a Trail Conference and service participation in trail activities or on a Trail Conference volunteer? Trail Conference committee. The qualification for Delegate-at-Large is The Volunteer Committee is looking for current membership in the Trail Conference. Self-nominations for nominees for our annual awards. With Delegate -at-Large and Board of Directors are appropriate and welcome. more than 1,500 people who donate Please email your nomination to [email protected]. their time to the organization, we know award-worthy volunteers are in our The deadline for receipt of nominations is Friday, April 24, 2015. ranks. Who do you know who has gone above and beyond? Members may nom - inate individuals for the annual awards, Giving Tuesday Challenge Raises Over $30K presented every fall by the Trail Confer - We have to say, THANK YOU! We’ve tallied your Giving ence Board. The deadline is July 1. The nomination process is easy. Check Tuesday Challenge donations and we’re blown away. Thanks www.nynjtc.org/awards to see the awards to our wonderful donors, we raised $30,799 over the eight- categories, qualifications, and if the day period from November 25 through December 2. These potential candidate has received an award in the past. Then fill out the online tremendous contributions will be met with $36,000 in nomination form, or e-mail it with sup - matching gifts for a grand total of $66,799, all of which will porting statements to the Volunteer be put to work to support the trail building, trail maintaining, Committee at [email protected]. To get ideas of what information is needed, see trail education, volunteer development, and trail protection www.nynjtc.org/document/award- programs we provide throughout our area. nomination-samples. Spring 2015 Page 3 From the Executive Director tion is tastefully designed with similar has been asked to do ever more as parks PEOPLE FOR TRAILS materials. have struggled to allocate resources despite • Environmental Protection: The build - an increasing load of parklands and visitors. ing is super insulated, while climate control In the field, aging trails are showing wear Spring is the is provided by a geothermal system at one- and tear from years of use, as well as the third the energy use of high-efficiency impact of climate change and invasive season of alternatives. Additionally, the entire land - species. In response to those needs, we reawakening. scape is conceived as a restoration of the became part of the AmeriCorps network, riverine habitat for native and endangered supplying approximately 20 trained Ameri - species, such as the wood turtle. Corps members annually for trail and • Engaging the Public: The property is invasive crews. In addition, we have been At the Trail Conference, the melting of located between county and town parks asked to lead regional partnerships such as snowy mountains and lengthening of days and across the road from a state college. the Lower Hudson Partnership for Region - Georgette Weir finds the staff and volunteers emerging The land itself is public parkland, and al Invasive Species Management and the Poughkeepsie, NY from in-office reports and planning to approximately half of the funds needed to Catskill Conservation Corps. resume their duties outdoors. I love how create the headquarters came from open With all of these new programs, it is no Since 2001, picking up a copy of the beginning of each work season is always space and historic preservation grants. surprise that our organizational structure Trail Walker meant reading the so promising, full of excitement over build - The restoration of Darlington School - designed decades ago is now strained han - warm prose and expert editing of ing new trails and the anticipation of dling these new responsibilities. Led by the Georgette Weir. But after nearly completing years-in-the-making projects. This organization has never Board of Directors with input from a broad 40 years in the editorial field, Weir This year, our eagerness for spring hasn’t been stronger, nor able to range of stakeholders, we will be fully decided to retire from her post as been reserved for thawing trails. For over a implementing the new organizational Trail Conference communications decade we worked on purchasing and accomplish so much. structure and process before the end of manager in January. restoring the Darlington Schoolhouse in 2015. We will also be developing a strategic Mahwah, NJ, and in March we finally house is a very visible commitment to the plan for the next five years with an eye “Putting my communications skills moved into the historic building as our communities we serve, giving us an oppor - toward our centennial. and background to work on behalf new headquarters—our new home for ful - tunity to raise even more awareness of the New beginnings are exciting, filled with of trails, on behalf of the outdoors, filling our mission of connecting people Trail Conference mission. When you think the optimism of intentional change, as well on behalf of the environment… I with nature. about it, most of our tangible work is some - as the anxiety of what lies ahead. But this feel very lucky to have had that The new office has many practical advan - what hidden away in the woods. And the organization has never been stronger, nor opportunity,” she says. “I’ve really tages over our prior leased space: plenty of better job we do, the harder it is to see that able to accomplish so much. I’m looking enjoyed being inspired by people room for staff and volunteer workspace, any work has been done. Our new head - forward to everything we can achieve in who are doing good work and meetings, and training; hospitable accom - quarters is a showcase of everything we strive our new headquarters in our second centu - telling their stories. That’s been modations for visitors and customers; and a to achieve, inviting potential new members, ry of service. a nice job to have.” low carbon footprint with reduced operat - volunteers, and partners to learn more. It’s a new season for the Trail Conference. ing costs. Perhaps even more important, And there’s so much to talk about. A new Though she’s taken a self- however, are the ways in which the building office precedes our 100th anniversary, described sabbatical to figure out and its restoration are a physical manifesta - quickly approaching in the fall of 2020. what’s next, this certainly isn’t the tion of our organizational values: With the impending arrival of that mile - last the Trail Conference will see of • Preservation & Stewardship: The orig - stone, we are tuning up the organizational — Edward Goodell Weir. She says you may find her inal schoolhouse—built of native timber structure to meet the challenges of a new Executive Director and her husband, Jean-Claude and field stone—is preserved, and the addi - century. Since 2000, the Trail Conference [email protected] Fouéré, clipping overgrowth with a trail crew this season (they resigned as maintainers of the Blueberry Run Trail in the IN MEMORIAM Minnewaska State Park Preserve Bob Newton State Trails Council until 2007. last fall). Or if you take a hike with Robert L. Newton, a life member of the New York-New Jersey Bob’s dedication to the outdoors was further seen in his work on the Mid-Hudson chapter of the Trail Conference, died peacefully on Christmas Day, 2014. He the board of the Environmental Education Fund and while assist - Adirondack Mountain Club, there’s was 87 years old. ing the Walks and Outings Committee of the New York-North a chance the pair will be your Bob, who resided in Pompton Plains, NJ, was a tireless champi - Jersey chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club. He served as an leaders for the day. on of the Trail Conference’s mission. In the 1970s and ’80s, he AMC supervisor for trail maintenance and was a member of the “I do not see myself walking worked on the trail crew that began the construction of the Frost Valley Trail Walkers and Union County Hiking Club. Bob away from some kind of outdoor- Appalachian Trail in western New Jersey; he later became trail was also a board member of Action Theatre. environmental focus,” Weir supervisor of the AT in that area. He served as Secretary and mem - A graduate of Syracuse University and Cornell University, he admits. “I’m really exploring new ber of the Trail Conference Board of Directors from 2002-2005 worked for five years for two chemical companies and for 30 years possibilities. But I have been very and was a chairman of the organization’s Conservation and Advo - on Wall Street as a security analyst, portfolio manager, venture much enjoying not sitting at a cacy Committee. Bob also helped launch the Bear Mountain Trails capitalist, and partner. desk all day.” Project and served as the hiking representative on the New Jersey Bob is survived by his wife Alma and children.

TRAIL NEWS ROUNDUP parking lot is near the northwest corner of starts at the Old Greenville Turnpike and about these trail changes should be direct - New parking areas, trail colors in Hawthorne Lake, at the end of Raymond used to be blazed white, has been reblazed ed to Ed McGowan, Palisades Interstate Huckleberry Ridge State Forest Drive. The SRT will be rerouted through with red DEC markers in the state forest, Park Commission Science Director, at This past fall and winter, several changes HRSF and along this parking area in the and standard red blazes on private land. 845-786-2701 ext. 263. have occurred in Huckleberry Ridge State near future. This trail, which currently ends near the The trail changes in this area that affect Forest (HRSF) in the towns of Greenville The other two parking areas are at both Port Jervis Metro North line, will be the Arden-Surebridge Trail and Red Cross and Deerpark in Orange County. ends of the Minisink Trail, which runs extended to the SRT this summer. Trail are on the Trail Conference’s new The Department of Environmental from the Old Greenville Turnpike to The reblazing of both trails has been 80 Harriman-Bear Mountain Trails map set, Conservation has installed four new park - Route 6, near the Greenville/Deerpark percent completed and will be finished as available now. ing areas with kiosks. The first one is on town line. The Minisink Trail (about five soon as the weather allows. the Greenville Turnpike along the miles) used to be blazed red, but has been New Jersey Preserves 1,500 Trail (SRT), where the reblazed with yellow DEC markers. Arden-Surebridge Trail Relocated Watershed Acres in Northern trail turns north off the road. A second The Lenape Ridge Trail, which also for Habitat Restoration Morris County New York State Parks has recently overseen In early 2015 the New Jersey Department habitat restoration along the first half-mile of Environmental Protection’s Green Acres of the Arden-Surebridge Trail in Harriman Program announced the purchase of State Park, beginning at the Lake Skan - 1,500 acres of pristine watershed buffer natati parking area. The trail has been land from Jersey City, providing perma - relocated in this area to alleviate erosion nent protection to land that surrounds the and ongoing impacts to sensitive habitats, city’s Split Rock Reservoir. in keeping with NYS Parks’ mission to pro - The preserved tract is a greenway con - vide for public enjoyment of parklands nector, linking the state’s Wildcat Ridge while maintaining sound environmental Wildlife Management Area, Farny State stewardship. The new section of trail fol - Park, and Buck Mountain. The land is pri - lows a more gradual route around the side marily forested, with hiking trails and of the mountain, offering limited views of fishing access, and includes a wide range of Lake Askoti and nearby rocky ledges, plant and animal species—including before connecting to the existing trail at the threatened and endangered species. northern end of the mountain. The new route also results in a change in the western Threatened Segment terminus of the Red Cross Trail, which has Saved by Fast-Acting Volunteers been shortened by about 0.2 miles. and Officials Please respect the natural resource stew - Kudos to supportive and responsive coun - ardship efforts of NYS Parks and keep to ty and town leadership! The Long Path in the new route when hiking this section of Rockland County recently came under trail. Continued unauthorized use of the threat of losing an important connecting former trail will only prolong the time segment between Rockland Lake State required for habitat restoration. Questions continued on page 10 Page 4 Spring 2015

Hikers’ Can’t find your club? This list represents all Trail Conference member clubs whose dues are up-to-date. If you have questions about your club’s status, please ask Directory your officers to contact the Membership & Development Team at 201-512-9348.

ADK Long Island Closter Nature Center Association Long Path North Hiking Club Southampton Trails Preservation Society www.adkli.org www.closternaturecenter.org www.schoharie-conservation.org http://southamptontrails.org

ADK Mid-Hudson Chapter Alliance Storm King Adventure Tours www.midhudsonadk.org www.greenwaynj.org www.mohonkpreserve.org www.stormkingadventures.com

ADK Mohican Chapter East Hampton Trails Preservation Society Morris County Park Commission Sullivan County Audubon Society www.adkmohican.org www.ehtps.org www.morrisparks.net www.sullivanaudubon.org

ADK New York Chapter Flat Rock Brook Nature Association Musconetcong Mountain Conservancy SUNY Oneonta Outing Club www.adkny.org www.flatrockbrook.org http://mmc.nynjtc.org www.oneonta.edu/outdoors

ADK North Jersey Ramapo Chapter Fox Hill School Nelsonville Greenway Committee www.hudsonhikers.org www.bruderhof.com/en/international- VillageofNelsonville.org www.teatown.org directory/united-states/fox-hill Alley Pond Environmental Center New Haven Hiking Club Tenafly Nature Center Association www.alleypond.com Friends of Garret Mountain www.NHHC.info www.tenaflynaturecenter.org http://friendsofgarretmountain. AMC Delaware Valley Chapter blogspot.com New Jersey Search & Rescue Inc. The Highlands Natural Pool www.amcdv.org www.njsar.org www.highlandsnaturalpool.org Friends of the Hackensack River AMC Mohawk Hudson Chapter Greenway in Teaneck Audubon Society, Inc. The Nature Place Day Camp www.amcmohawkhudson.org www.teaneckgreenway.org www.nycaudobon.org http://thenatureplace.com

AMC New York North Jersey Chapter Friends of the Old , Inc. New York Ramblers The Outdoor Club, Inc. www.amc-ny.org http://aqueduct.org www.nyramblers.org www.outdoorsclub.info

Bellvale School Friends of The Shawangunks NYC Outward Bound Center Thendara Mountain Club www.bruderhof.com/en/international- http://shawangunks.org www.nycoutwardbound.org www.thendaramountainclub.org directory/united-states/bellvale Friends of Van Cortlandt Park Protect Our Wetlands, Water & Woods Town of Lewisboro Consortium Inc. http://vancortlandt.org (POW) www.lewisborogov.com/parksrec www.blackrockforest.org http://box292.bluehost.com/~powwworg German-American Hiking Club Trail WhippAss Boy Scout Troop 121- Council http://gah.nynjtc.org Protectors of Pine Oak Woods www.trailwhippass.com/ www.siprotectors.org trail-whippass-home Boy Scout Troop 50 Mahwah Greenburgh Nature Center MAHWAHtroop50.scoutlander.com www.greenburghnaturecenter.org Rip Van Winkle Hikers Tri State Ramblers http://newyorkheritage.com/rvw http://tsr.nynjtc.org Boy Scout Troop 8, Brooklyn Hike for Mental Health www.hikeformentalhealth.org Rock Lodge Club University Outing Club Boy Scouts of America, Troop 21 www.rocklodge.com www.universityoutingclub.org Hilltop Conservancy, Inc. Boy Scouts of America- www.hilltopconservancy.org RPHC Volunteers Valley Stream Hiking Club Northern NJ Council www.rphcabin.org www.meetup.com/vshclub www.nnjbsa.org Gateway Task Force www.TownofCortlandt.com SAJ - Society for the Advancement of Wappingers Greenway Trail Committee Byram Township Environmental Judaism Commission Hunterdon Hiking Club http://www.thesaj.org West Milford 13ers www.byramtwp.org www.hunterdonhikingclub.org www.weishike.com Salt Shakers Trail Running Club Catskill 3500 Club Interstate Hiking Club www.saltshakersrun.com Westchester Trails Association www.catskill-3500-club.org www.interstatehikingclub.org www.westhike.org Shorewalkers Inc. Catskill Mountain Club Little Stony Point Citizens Association www.shorewalkers.org Women About www.catskillmountainclub.org www.littlestonypoint.org www.womenabout.org Sierra Club Mid-Hudson Group Chinese Mountain Club of New York Long Island Greenbelt Trail Conference www.newyork.sierraclub.org/midhudson WWW www.cmcny.org www.ligreenbelt.org www.weishike.com

A Thank You to My THE WEEKLY FORCED MARCH Hiking Mentors continued from page 1 we go out-and-back, and sometimes we By Pat Marcotullio drop a car and hike from point to point. At the end of the hike, when we all pile back When I tell my fellow hikers that I was into the car, the children are often subdued born in a mountainous area of central Italy, and a little tired. They gobble up their iDe - they often reply, “You must have done a lot vices and stare at the screens. We of hiking there!” Truth be told, I did no sometimes hear, “Mom, Dad, that was hiking in my youth—a lot of walking and awesome.” We don’t hear it every time— biking, yes, like trekking several miles to but sometimes. school, to visit my grandmother in the next village, or to the train station. During WWII bombing raids we would climb up the mountain to the bomb shelter—a cave—but I wouldn’t exactly call that recre - ational hiking! “Be at the trailhead on time—or else,” says Pat Marcotullio, When I came to the at 19, who maintains trails in Harriman and Wawayanda state parks. we settled in the Bronx, which didn’t offer many opportunities for hiking, even if I boots I was wearing and the hiking boots I spaces?” Didn’t take me long to become a had the time to do it. It was about 20 years should wear. From Lilo Kassel I learned member. When I mentioned to Pete Heck - ago that I got my first opportunity to that there is no such thing as an easy hike, ler that I was thinking of becoming a Enjoying the woods–no iDevices necessary. hike… if you want to call it that. I lived less while John, Nick, Rita Boyd, Phyllis Key, maintainer, it took him a whole week to than a quarter-mile from the Long Path in Peter Tilgner, Mark Liss, and many others find a trail for me. After that, Estelle My wife and I are not changing the world, Rockland County, and I would walk it introduced me to the finer points of read - Anderson volunteered me for another trail. but it feels as if we are fighting against it. The back and forth for a couple of hours—until ing a map, the wisdom of avoiding steep I have two wonderful and supportive power these little machines have over our one day I ran into a group from the ADK climbs after lunch, the code of safe hiking supervisors who are there when I need children is very, very strong. It wants to keep North Jersey-Ramapo chapter and discov - (I’m still working on using a hiking stick them and make my job maintaining a sec - them inside on the couch and out of the ered such a thing as organized hiking carefully), and to be at the trailhead on tion of the Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail in woods. We feel we are doing the right thing groups and clubs. time—or else. It is because of these friends Harriman and the Iron Mountain Trail in by fighting against that corruptive power, It didn’t take long for me to join the and their mentoring that I wanted to give Wawayanda easier. getting our children to disconnect from chapter and start hiking regularly with back, too. I now consider myself a good hiker and technology and reconnect with nature them. I did not know anything about I remember the day John told me in no hike leader, even if I don’t lead much any - through our weekly forced march. proper hiking attire until John Giuffrida uncertain terms: “You have to join the New more. I could not have become one Want to get your kids unplugged and into and Nick Viggiano, two hiking veterans York-New Jersey Trail Conference. Who do without the many mentors I encountered. the woods? Find a family-friendly hike in and my most persistent mentors, made me you think is maintaining the trails, design - Thanks to all; I hope I have passed along your area using our hikes database: aware of the difference between the work ing new trails, and fighting for open some of the wisdom you taught me. www.nynjtc.org/view/hike. Spring 2015 Page 5

TRAIL CONFERENCE SUPPORTERS PEOPLE FOR TRAILS DONORS TO THE ANNUAL FUND November 6, 2014 – February 6, 2015

Paul & Kathryn Abdis, Marilyn Adair, Renee Allessio, Robert Altabet, Kevin Alward, Susan & Haron Andima, Edward & Karen Applebome, Patrick J. Applegate, Michael Ashton, Richard C. Avidon, Bill & Emily Badinelli, Alexander & Margaret Bancroft, Douglas Banker, Kenneth S. & Judith Bannermann, Peter Barnett, Jim Barnshaw, Kerry Barringer & Rosetta Arrigo, Kate & Jeffrey Baum, Benjamin & Susan Baxt, Robert Bender & Loretta Nash, Vaclav E. Benes, Paul Bennett, Susan Bennett, James & Laurie Benson, Gottfried Bernert, Steve Bertolino, Lucille Bertram, Donald A. Bickford, Peter Biging, Sherri Biscan, Bonnie & Steven Blader, John B. Blenninger, Ian Blundell, Jeffrey M. Blundo, Michael J. Bolotsky, Hong & James Bong Pyo, Judith A. Bott, Mike & Flo Boucher, William Bracey, John Bradley, Jonathan L. Brandt, Dr. Joseph A. & Evalynne Braun, Charles B. Brock, Kathryn L. Bryan, Harvey K. Bucholtz, Richard & Shari Buchwald, David W. Buell, Peter Buffington, Thomas & Mary Bugel, Stephen Bulwin, Young Bun Bak, David Burch, Michael Buriani, Michael J. Burns, Christopher A. Burtt & Aileen Nicoletti, Robyne Camp, Russ & Diane Cannizzaro, Mary Caporaso, Frank Caputzal, Marta Carbone, Matty & Gus Castellano, Martin J. & Helene J. Celnick, Helen M. & Richard Cerny, Michael Chaberski, William Chiappane, Elisabeth Chiera, Edward Chlanda, Carol Ciancia & Peter O'Malley, George M. Cimis, Ledge & Arthur L Clayton, Paul G. E David Kopp Clemens, Jonathan Cohen, Erin Colfax, Brian Collins & Michelle Tuorto-Collins, John Connolly, Bryan Cook, John Cool, Joseph A. & Marion Costa, Peter Coy, Philip D. Cristantiello Mahwah, NJ PhD, David S. Cronen, Susan Cuciti, Robert Cutler, Mark J. Dallara, Lucy C. Danziger, George F. Davenel Jr., Kathleen Davies, Christopher B. Davis, Jeanmarie Davis & Larry Littlefield, Jerome Dean, Donald L. Deans Sr., Bill & Jan Deegan, Claudia Depkin & William Braine, Brigitte Dessauer, Frank DiGiacomo, Benjamin & Jeanne Dobrzynski, Joseph Dodzik, Hank Doherty, Paul T. & Diane Donoghue, Peter Dorosh, Richard Dougherty, June Duffy, Constance Duhamel, Brian Durkin, Mark C. Dye, Ryan Egan & Stephanie Leal, Adrian & Libby Ellis, Member of the Trail Conference Michael Engel, Jacqueline B. Engelhart, Naomi Epstein, John Esposito, Sheila C. Ewall, Frances Lee Fanger, Lou Feeney, Chuck Feldman, Roland & Mary Ann Folter, Peter I. & Janice Membership and Development A. Ford, Nina Forrest, Jay Francis & Elizabeth Bradford, Christopher Franks, Christopher & Dorothy Freeman, Mark Fromm, Michael Fuhrman, Ronald Furia, Robert Galli, William Gannett, Christine Gerber, Clifford Norman Gerenz, Naola B. Gersten-Woolf, Frederick J. Gerty, Rob Gigliuto, James Gilligan, Thomas Gilson, Martha Gingrich, Eve-Lynn Gisonni, Committee Ashlyn Giulianelli, Richard W. Goldsmith, Toby Golick, Haijiang Gong, Jannah Goodell & Konrad Hayashi, Suzanne Goodell, James & Susan Goodfellow, Richard G. Gramlich, James B. Gray, Scott & Mary Greifenberger, Nancy Grossefinger, Mary Beth Grybowski & Stephanie Sclafani, Robert Hagedorn, Thomas Hall, Susan & Hellmut Hameyer, Bruce & Patricia Member of the Society for the Hammer, William A. & Joan T. Hand, Alden Hansell, James W. & Margaret Harbison, Paul H. Harrison, Elizabeth Heald, Elizabeth T Healy, Kathy Hecht & Leonard Diamond, Sidney Protection of Ancient Buildings B. Heimbach MD, Howard D. Helms, Robin P. & Robyn L. Hempel, William Hill, Mary M. Hilley, Daniel Hoberman, Steven L. Holley, Royal Jay Holly, Susan Holmberg, Robert W. & and the William Morris Society Beverly Houghton, James M. Hourihan, Richard Howl &, Walter E. Ilchuk Jr., Paul & Amy Impelluso, Samuel W. Ingram Jr., Alexander James, Barbara Johnson, Michael Johnston, William R. Jones, Brad Jordan, Margery Josephson, Joyce C. & Morris R. Judson Jr., Shinki Kang, Joel Kantrowitz, Richard Karp, Brian Kassenbrock, Jodie H. Katz, Richard & Marion David Kopp, Litt. D, is a Trail Katzive, Michael A. Kaye, Martha Kelshaw, Barbara & Bradford Kendall, Norma Kerlin, Hogyun Kim, Philip L & Melinda Kerstein, Sandra Kissam, Elizabeth Klaber, Laurence Kleidman, Conference member who has David & Anita Knechel, Jack & Judy Kossover, Charles Kovacs, Diane E. Krantz-Epstein, Bob Kreizel & Tamara S & y, Matthew & Kristin Kress, Jeryl Kronish, Gary & Cindy Kuhns, Robert J. LaMagna, Edward Landau, Christine Larson, Adam Lechner & Ellen Gold, Bill & Ann Marie Lee, Tina Lee, Donna J. Leftwich, Marie Leithauser, Laura Leso, Rich Lesser, Richard R. taken particular interest in the & Diane Levine, Rosanne Levitt, Jerome S. Levkov, Sally Lewis & Marshall Katzman, Edward J. Liona, Lynne Livingstone, Ann G. Loeb, Chester S. Logan, Emmanuel Loizides, H. Max organization’s new headquarters Lopp II & Irene H. Reichert, Carl Loutzenheiser, Christopher Lowden & Kathy Murray, Douglas Lowe, Helen Lowenstein, John F. Luard, Nancy MacPhee, Leon S. Maleson, Lawrence E. at the historic Darlington Mals, Pasquale Marcotullio, Susanna Margolis, Daniel & Erik Markewich, Brian Markey & M. Lincoln, Bonnie H. Marsh, Ralph Martinez, Steve Mathews, Patricia Mazzone, Dan McCarthy, Carl J. Mendez, Lucinda Mercer & Richard Cole, Michael Merritt & Hilary Wilder, Scott Michenfelder, Andrew Mikesh, Joseph D. & Aurelia Minuti, James Mioduszewski, Schoolhouse in Mahwah, NJ. William P. Mitchell & Barbara Jaye, Thomas C. Moorhead, Richard & Catherine More, Ken G. Morgan, Robert F. & Renate Moson, Jerome B. Moss, Martina Moss, Lee Mott & Barbara Besides living in a community Simmons, Ernest J. Mozer Jr., Ken Myett, John Nelson, Paul Neuman, Willard G. Nichols & Janice Holleny, William Nichols, Elke & Gregg Noll, David & Betsy L Nussenbaum, Mary Jo adjacent to the building, Kopp is a L Nutt, Edward T. & Barbara O’Brien, Keith O’Hara, Chris Oldfather & Fredrica Wyman, Barry Oleksak, Frances & Stephen Oleksak, Michael P. O’Shea, Glenn C. & Linda Y. Ostrander, medievalist who has written a Peter S. Paine Jr., John Palczynski & Pat Laverty, Branka Palic, John Pao, Andrew K. & Jung Rim Park, Peter H. Parsons, Michael Pashley, Ronald Passaretti, Derek Pennells, Robert J. & Julie Permutt, Kathryn Person, Karen L. Peterson, William & Georgann Pettenger, George R. Petty Jr. & Marilyn Katz, Colleen Phillips, Richard Pine & Cheryl Agris, Priscilla Pogact, wonderfully detailed article on the Peter W. Preston, Jeffrey & Susan Pribor, Mary Jean Purdy, Earl J. Pursell, Ronald Quackenbush, Amy Quarttaccio, James A. Quinn, Daniel Raleigh, Jacqueline Rankin, Werner & Jane influence of 19th century English Rausch, Peter Reiner, Monica Reynolds, William M. Richardson Jr., Thomas & Robin Rigney, Neil B. & Kathryn M. Rindlaub, William L. Roach Jr., Bonnie Robins, Douglas H. Robins, textile designer and eco-socialist Allen Rochkind, Georgios Rodas, Alan S. Rojer, David Rojer & Jennifer Lublin, Roger Roloff & Barbara Petersen, Ron S. & Marilyn Rosen, Dr. Zehava S. Rosenberg, Francesco Rossi & activist William Morris upon Jennifer Vogel-Rossi, Colleen Roth, R. Daniel & Durdane Rouse, Mark & Barbara Rubin, Donald & Susan Rudbart, Charles E. & Joanne Ryan, Lowell & Rosalie Saferstein, Lynn & John Salmon, Howard & Suzanne Samelson, Henry T. Sarnataro, Joseph Scalia, Charles & Xiomara Scheidt, Heather Schneider, Seth Schwartz, John Schweighardt, Steve R. & Susan Darlington Schoolhouse architect J Schwinn, George Blair Scribner, Marvin Seligman, Alfred A. & Carol Seymour-Jones, Eric & Karen Shepard, Robert Shoemaker, Linda Shwab, Simon & Nancy Z Sidamon-Eristoff, Dudley Newton. Manuel J. Silberberg, Steven M. & Ava T. Silverstein, Jon G. Sinkway, Richard Sklar, Jim Sligar & Diana Sattelberger, Cindi Small, Charles H. Smith, Mitchell C. & Diana C. Smith, Norman J. & Kip Smith, Valerie Smith, Richard Sneyers, P. D. & E. G. Southgate, Susan Spear, Jennie Spector, Dennis Spriet, Vicki Steinhardt, Eric Steinhart, Susan Sterngold, Joe M. Newton employed the ethos of the Sullivan, Jan A. Summers, Lynn T. Swanson, Kathleen Tabor, Dean B. Talcott, Michael Taylor & Sharon P. Churcher, Charles Teuscher, Mark Thoman, Larry Thomas, James A. American Arts and Crafts Thompson, Robert Tivey, Howard Tokosh, Nancy & Art Tollefson, Donald J. Toumey, Doug & Valerie Trainor, Barbara J. Traver, Dave Treco, Richard I. Ulman, Thomas Unger, Sherri Urowsky, Ernest V. Valera, Janice M. Vicine, Jeremy Viles, Walter Vines, Karl J. Volk, Bjorn & Sharon von Euler, Jack Wahlberg, Alfred M. Wanamaker Jr., Dorothy Warburton, Edwin R. Movement in his construction of Ward, William C. Ward Jr., Jennifer Watts, Hedley M. & Barbara Weeks, Lewis Weinfeld, Eric R Weiss, Daniel Wesemann, Diana Whiteman, Cyrus B. Whitney, William E. Wickey, Leonora the Schoolhouse, a movement H. Wiener, Robert Willemann & Catherine Ray, Thomas M. & Edith K. Williams, Karen Willick, Jennell Wilson, Joan H. Wise, Christian Wojtko, Don & Ann Wolf, Hanson Wong, Ida championed by Morris as a Wong, Mr. Andrew Y Wong, Peggy Wong, Tamar Wyschogrod & David Cooper, Andy Yaco-Mink, Mihoko Yamazoe, Keum Hwa Yoo, Gregory & Kimberly Zdenek, James Zeller, Adam solution to the environmental Zion, Nancy Zoebelein, Vasyl Zuk & Gloria Capik, Martin F. Zumsteg abuse of the Industrial Revolution, DONORS TO GIVING TUESDAY Kopp explains. The architect used Therese Allen, Peter Backes, Len Bailenson, Dave Baker, Peter M. Balma, Hanna & Andy Benesch, Sheree & Fred Bennett, Clifford & Marcy Berchtold, John Bradley, Ron Brantner, local rough cut stone and wood Melissa Chase, Daniel D. Chazin, Joshua Clements, Roger Cocchi, Jane & Walter Daniels, Salley A. Decker, Ken & Elaine Dolsky, Charlotte & Stanley Fahn MD, Nicholas Foad, Alex Foster & Will Lovell, Jakob & Gely M. Franke, Robert E. Fuller, Claudia L. Ganz, John Gaut, Chuck Gaw, Christopher Gibbs, Edward K. Goodell & Lynne S. Katzmann, Edward K. Goodell shingle, giving the Schoolhouse & Lynne S. Katzmann, Peter Tilgner & Suzan Gordon, Agnes Gottlieb, James & Jane Gregoire, Andrew Greiner, John & Anne Grob, Joseph F. Helmer & Mary Dodds, Maria Himber, Nancy “remarkable fidelity to place,” Hodson, Mary H. & Arthur C. Horst, Andrew & Helaine Janovsky, Michael Keller, Alice & Daniel Kiselik, J. Michael & Lail Kleinman, David Krasnow, Robert F. & Cheryl Lehmann, Louis Kopp writes. Leonardis, Richard R. & Diane Levine, Mark Linehan & Karen La Bonte, Carl Loutzenheiser, Len & Sue Lyon, Sona Mason, Gregory McNally, Ajata Mediratta, Nancy Meyers, Yosef Nazryan, G. Gail Neffinger, Valerie & David Northcutt, Robert Paine, Joseph Peraino, James Prommel, Thomas Regenauer, Chris Reyling & &rea Minoff, Chris Reyling & Andrea Minoff, The Trail Conference has been Audrey Roco, Frank Russo, Eddie & Robbie Saiff, Seth Schwartz, Jeffrey P. Senterman & Maurice Lemire, Nancy Sierra, Gregory J. Smith, Douglas & Joan Nickel Sohn, Fred & Connie Stern, David P. Stuhr, Matthew & Lisa Visco, Ed & Eudora Walsh, Georgette Weir & Jean Claude Fouere, Donald L. Weise, Jessica Wendrychowicz, and Christopher Wiley very careful in honoring such a monument to Mahwah history, TRIBUTES CORPORATE, FOUNDATION & OTHER DONORS working in conjunction with the In honor of Robert Bonkowski In memory of Michael Hayman AmazonSmile Foundation, AMC Delaware Valley Chapter, Ashland Inc., AT&T New Jersey Historic Trust and Ryan Mruczek David & Naomi Sutter Foundation, Avon Matching Gifts Program, Avon Products, Inc, Ayco Charitable Bergen County Historic Foundation, BD C/O Cybergrants, Benjamin Moore Paints, Brooklyn Community In honor of Robert Fuller In memory of Torleif Meloe, an avid Preservation Advisory Board to Chuck Gaw hiker and lover of nature! Foundation, Carol Irving Foundation, Charitable Flex Fund, Charles Foundation, COACH Matching Gift Program, Conatus Capital Management, Deutsche Bank, ensure the integrity of the original In honor of Beth Hershenhart Erica A. Meloe Earthshare Chapters, EarthShare New Jersey, Elliott Badgley Foundation, Inc, building in the restoration. The Lori Hershenhart & Chris Wegrzyn In memory of Judy Niemer Exelon Generation Company LLC, Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC, Fidelity In honor of Linda Malkin David and Naomi Sutter Charitable Gift Fund, GE Foundation Matching Gifts Program, Geraldine R. Dodge new addition, though harmonious Kenneth Mayer In memory of Robert L. Newton Foundation, Gladys and Roland Harriman Foundation, Golden Family with the original structure, does In honor of Theodore Reyling Dan Ahearn, William N. & Mary M. Foundation, Hike for Mental Health, ING Matching Gifts Coordinator, J. Rudder not attempt to be an exact copy, Chris Reyling & Andrea Minoff Deatherage, Carolyn & Ted Janner, Len & Tax, KHM Arden LLC, Kirkland and Ellis Foundation, Leanne Freas Trout rightly allowing the historic Rita Newman, Dahlia B. Newton, Otto & Foundation, Inc., Lone Pine Foundation, Inc, Louis and Anne Abrons Foundation, In honor of Robert C. Ross Maria Noethen, Jeffery & Jessica Orvis, Inc, Meadowlark Foundation, Members Give - JustGive, Merck Partnership For building its individual distinction. David Ross David & Naomi Sutter, Pasquale J. & Giving, Microsoft Donation Program, Mobile Giving Foundation, Morgan Stanley, In honor of Daniel Van Engel Patricia R. Taranto, Lester & Marianne NECA, Network For Good, Novartis, Orange and Rockland Utilities, Inc., Pepsico It is a renovation that remains true Martin Horowitz Wolfson, Philip Weinpel Foundation, Pfizer Foundation Matching Gifts Program, Robert Wood Johnson to the mission of Morris, who was In memory of Tom Dunn In memory of Dr. Robert L. Nutt Foundation, Rudder Realty Corp, Schwab Charitable Fund, The Berner Family, The an instrumental organizer in James R. Brown Sidney B. Heimbach MD, George & Lucy Caksill Mountain Club Inc., The Mabee Family Foundation, The Yaspan Unterberg creating the Society for the Heller Foundation, Thendara Mountain Club, Thomas Reuters My Community Program, In memory of Dr. Joan Ehrenfield Protection of Ancient Buildings, In memory of Dorothy Hane Palmer Truist, United Health Foundation, United Water New Jersey, Vanguard Charitable Dr. Kate E. Gardoqui Endowment Program, Verizon Foundation and Zadeck Family Foundation which focuses on preventing the In memory of Mark Etskovitz Roy Palmer Kathi Winecker Corrections to Winter 2015 haphazard and historically In memory of George Form Trail Walker : insensitive “restoration” of Nancy Hodson In memory of David Sive buildings from the past. “Morris John B. Blenninger, Marilyn Siskind Tributes are only printed for donations of $25 or more. would enthusiastically applaud this effort,” Kopp says. DONORS TO THE DARLINGTON SCHOOLHOUSE FUND To read Kopp’s full article, Finding November 6, 2014 – February 6, 2015 William Morris in the Darlington Schoolhouse Project: Arts and Marilyn Adair, Jeremy Apgar, Alfred Y. Bentley Jr., Anne Perkins Cabot, Richard Cantor & Alice Luddington-Cantor, Jennifer Easterbrook & Kevin Zack, Fred K. & Joan Ellis, Joanne Foster Crafts Architecture, Historical & John Macalla, Robert J. Glynn, Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, John & Marianne Gunzler, The William Froelich Foundation, Claus & Wiebke Hinsch, Bob Kreizel & Tamara Preservation and Ecosophy , visit Sandy, Robert Krumm, John K. Leigh IV, Richard R.&Diane Levine, Mr. Bryant D. & Joan Malcolm, Gwen Marquardt, Mary & Gay Mayer, Jody & Bob Meyer, Maureen Postolowski, David http://blog-dsh.nynjtc.org. Ross, Jeffrey P. Senterman&Maurice Lemire, Jonathan Spoelstra, Kathy Sullivan, Fred H. & Anne Todd Osborn, Donald Tripp & Denise Jarvis, Christie Van Kehrberg, Donald L. Weise, Evan & Maria Williams, Gary Willick, Melissa Wohlgemuth & Matt Howard, Patsy & Roy Wooters

Sign Up Now: Two Hike-Run Events Supporting the Trail Conference

Swap your hiking boots for trail run - and descends the Palisades, offering ton Schoolhouse in Mahwah. Organized ning shoes this May, when two tremendous river and skyline views from by the Mahwah Regional Chamber of walk-run events supporting the Trail the Long Path and Shore Trail. Registration Commerce and benefitting the Trail Conference will be held. is open through race day, with proceeds Conference, the race and 1.5-mile walk going towards the Trail Conference’s work starts at the restored Darlington School - The Second Annual Rock the River 6K in the Palisades. For more information, vis - house and weaves through the scenic Trail Run-Walk (formerly known as Escape it www.rocktheriverrace.com. Ramapo Reservation. The event includes to the Palisades), raising awareness of the And in celebration of our move into the food and tours of the schoolhouse. To Palisades and the Palisade Interstate Park, new Trail Conference headquarters, join us register and find more details, visit will take place Sunday, May 3 at Ross Dock for the MRCC Trail Conference 5K Run www.mahwah.com or www.nynjtc.org. in Fort Lee, NJ. This exciting course climbs and Walk Sunday, May 17 at the Darling - Page 6 Spring 2015 People for Trails. Trails for People. A quarterly look at some of what we have been doing to improve public access to nature.

Bear Mountain Trails Project: The Final Push Long Distance Trails Crew Installs By Ama Koenigshof, Trail Builder/Educator Large Stepping Stones on Long Path After years of planning with our partners Why is this project important? in Harriman State Park from the Palisades Interstate Park Com - In 1923, New York-New Jersey Trail By Bob Fuller, member of the Long Distance Trails Crew mission, New York State Office of Parks, Conference volunteers completed con - Recreation, and Historic Preservation, struction of the Appalachian Trail on Bear This December work trip was our last for stream bed. And everything—slings, feet, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, National Mountain. It was the first section of the 2014. We went out on a very rainy Satur - and even heavy rock bars—were pushed Park Service, and Bear Mountain State AT to be opened. Due to its close proxim - day to set up the high line and then on a downstream by the current. Finally we got a Park, the New York-New Jersey Trail Con - ity to New York City, Bear Mountain beautiful, but cold Sunday rearranged giant sling on the rock and the rock in the air, ference broke ground on the Bear State Park receives nearly 3 million visi - stepping stones at the Long Path crossing only to find that we had to reposition the Mountain Trails Project (BMTP) in 2006. tors per year—a whole lot of feet on the of the Lake Skannatati inlet stream. Many sling multiple times and flip the rock to Since then, the questions on everyone’s trails creating a whole lot of impact. From of you will remember this as a very difficult make it fit just where it was needed. This mind have remained the same: Are we Georgia to , Bear Mountain is the crossing, especially in high water and in the took all morning; we finished the first rock done yet?! Are we ever going to be done?! heaviest used section of the Appalachian winter when the rocks ice up. Some of us just in time for a late lunch. Well, thanks to ever-changing conditions Trail. This project is vital to reducing the remember falling into the cold winter After eating we moved more rocks into and maintenance needs, a trail builder’s environmental impact of visitors and water here. We wanted to make that a place, and by late afternoon hikers were work is never complete. But today we can keeping these trails sustainable for future thing of the past. already using the new crossing. It’s hard to give you a better answer: We’re ALMOST generations to enjoy. Sunday morning the water was running convey in words both the challenge and there! With your help, we can finish the deep and fast, and right in the middle of the feeling of accomplishment that comes with main feature of the BMTP—the reloca - stream was a giant rock (1,500 lbs. or more) a job well done. tion of the Appalachian Trail—by the end we wanted to reposition as a stepping stone. We will have more outings beginning in of 2017. This made getting a sling under the rock a early spring, so please join us. Contact very COLD and WET challenge. Not only Crew Chief Chris Reyling at 914-953- What is the Bear Mountain was there no place to stand, you couldn’t see 4900 or [email protected], for more Trails Project? the bottom of the rock or the bottom of the information. The Bear Mountain Trails Project includes the restoration of all the trails on the mountain. The focus of the project is the Appalachian Trail (AT), but it also includes the Major Welch Trail, the Suf - fern-Bear Mountain Trail, several link trails, the All-Persons Trail—an accessible portion of the AT at the top of Bear Mountain—and the Trails for People Exhibit located on the AT near the Bear The Bear Mountain Trails Project built the accessible All-Persons Trail on the AT. Mountain Inn. How can you help us complete What has been done on the AT on Bear Mountain? Bear Mountain so far? Come out, volunteer, and learn new Since 2006, 1,745 volunteers working skills! The trail-building season runs alongside professional trail builders and from late March through late November. Conservation Corps members have spent We’re on-site Friday through Monday. over 58,000 hours building 17,131 linear Help us finish the trail! To finish the feet of trail, including 1,805 stairs and Appalachian Trail by 2017, we need 11,631 square feet of crib wall. In 2010, $250,000. Your contribution to the Bear the first section of the AT relocation, con - Mountain Trails project will help us The Long Distance Trails Crew braved chilly, wet conditions to install new stepping stones. sisting of roughly 700 steps from the Inn improve the AT experience at one of its to the Scenic View Road cul-de-sac, was most historic and heavily used sections. finished. In 2011, a second section includ - We’re so close, with only 1,000 feet ing an AT loop and nearly a half mile of remaining to reach Perkins Tower. Our West Jersey Trail Crew 2014 Report: accessible trail at the top of Bear Moun - work at Bear Mountain is creating an From Stokes to to Wawayanda tain was opened. In 2012, a section of the ecologically sustainable, more appealing, By Monica & David Day, Crew Chiefs AT known as the Demonstration Trail and safer trail for Bear Mountain visitors (part of the Trails for People Exhibit) was to enjoy for decades to come. In 2014, the West Jersey Crew lived up to Depuy, Peter Dolan, Matt Donnelly, completed. And in 2013, a major portion Your gift will also help create the new its name, working all over the western Heather Guinta, Ray Gridley, Shelley of the Major Welch trail was rerouted. Trails for People Interpretive Area. Trails portion of the state. Harvey, Michael Hild, Ted Jackson, Bob for People is being built adjacent to the In Tillman’s Ravine in Stokes State For - Jonas, Gay Mayer, Nick McKenna, Jim What are we doing this year on most frequently visited section of the park est, the crew removed blowdowns, reset Mott, Lee Mott, Steve Reiss, Keith Scher - Bear Mountain? And what’s left to attract, educate, and expose the general two bridges, and repaired trail damage er, Barbara Simmons, Rabindra Singh, after that? public to the Trail Conference, the art and from Hurricane Sandy. Also in Stokes Bill Taggart, Linda Taggart, Jim Tizio, In 2015, we will complete the Trails for science of trail building, the spirit of volun - State Forest, a relocation of a stream Lucy Weinman, and Pete Zuroff. People Exhibit and 482 more feet of the teerism, and the backcountry experience. crossing on the Lackner Trail included And finally, a huge thanks to our New Appalachian Trail between the Scenic Learn more at www.nynjtc.org/bearmt - the construction of an 18-foot long Jersey Department of Environmental View Road cul-de-sac. That leaves only ntrails or contact Ama at 616-3337-2481 wooden bridge. Protection partners at the state parks, 1,141 feet remaining until we reach the or [email protected]. In High Point State Park, the crew relo - who consistently support our work by Perkins Memorial Tower at the top! cated a stream crossing away from a steep transporting our materials, providing gravel bank, replaced an 8-foot high their facilities, and lending us equipment. wooden staircase at a road crossing, and Without this support, we would not be built a 25-step rock staircase in a deeply able to do what we do. eroded area. On the Appalachian Trail After the winter off, the crew will (AT) in High Point, the side trail to the begin work for the spring in mid-April; Rutherford Shelter was relocated, elimi - come join us! More information and a nating a steep and exposed route. Work crew schedule can be found at on the AT also took place in Stokes State www.nynjtc.org/content/west-jersey- Forest, where the crew repaired and stabi - trail-crew. lized the steep initial climb southbound from Rt. 206 with rock steps, side-hilling, and water bars. And in Wawayanda State Park, the crew installed 360 feet of new puncheon in a chronically wet field near Vernon on the AT. The crew also began work repairing and upgrading the Cedar Swamp Trail boardwalk in Wawayanda. Thank you to everyone who worked as part of the West Jersey Crew in 2014: Alan Abramowitz, Ian Blundell, Jean The Demonstration Trail on the AT is part of the Trails for People Exhibit, Brennen, Paul Brennan, Gordon Camp - The West Jersey Trail Crew resumes work which will be completed this year. bell, Joan Campbell, Tom Carr, Sharon in mid-April. Spring 2015 Page 7

Learn, Hike, Give Back: Opportunities Ask a with the Catskills Conservation Corps Trail Builder By Heather Rolland, Catskill Assistant Program Coordinator By Ama Koenigshof, Trail Does the staff of the Catskills Conserva - Builder/Educator tion Corps hibernate? No way! Although Why build stairs the winter saw a dearth of snow here in on a trail? the Catskills, the CCC has kept its cram - Doesn’t that pons on and its collective nose to the defeat the purpose grindstone! Winter means planning, of walking Not everyone was shopping at the malls through nature? organizing, and hiking for the CCC staff, on a mid-December weekend—some were and we’ve been doing plenty that. out improving our trails. A couple of A staircase on a trail in the woods small bridges and bog bridges were does not always feel natural. Steps can Planning for a great work season replaced along the Long Path in the take away from the feeling that many The CCC staff met with New York State New Jersey section of the Palisades hikers are looking for—the feeling Department of Environmental Conserva - Interstate Park just north of Rockefeller that they are in the wilderness far tion (DEC) land managers and rangers in Lookout. Christina Fehre from PIPC from human influence. But stairs both regions 3 and 4 to discuss trail work brought in the lumber and was the crew aren’t built to add pretty landscaping priorities and make preliminary plans for one weekend. This project will include leader. With 11 people, it took only three to your hike—sometimes they are a number of trail work projects and work - reroofing the lean-to and moving the hours to finish the job. Clockwise from simply a necessity. shops to be scheduled this coming work privy. Once again, many hands will make top left: Matt, Fred, Michael, Chris, Karl, Depending on soil type and the season. Rangers and forestry staff have light work of it all. John, Joel, Dennis, Anna, and Christina. number of people using it, a trail can also shared feedback about ongoing pro - There are other lean-tos to be stained Photo by Jakob Franke, Long Path only stand up to a certain slope before grams and issues–we’ve been grateful to and privies to be moved. There are wet co-chair. Thank you all! it turns into a gully. Consider this: get that important input so we can con - and muddy trails that will see stepping Each hiker’s feet compact and displace tinue to streamline our efforts and work stones or split log bridges built, and many a very small amount of earth that is together even more effectively. other possible trail projects that land the trail’s tread. This creates a minis - Some workshop ideas are still under managers are carefully evaluating. We are View from the trail: cule divot for water to get caught in construction, but we will be sure to offer a working closely with DEC staff, and every time it rains, causing erosion of number of valuable volunteer training eagerly anticipate receiving approvals for There's no winter the soil. Eventually, you’d be hiking opportunities. A fun and interactive work - additional projects this spring. hibernation for our up a stream every time it rains. To shop on tool safety will be offered, as well Work days already being scheduled escape this man-made river and the as classes on trail layout and design, and include at least two litter pick-ups dur - volunteers and staff. mud it creates, you’d hike up along basic trail maintenance. And we’ll contin - ing the summer targeting areas of the the edge of the path, causing the trail ue to provide hiker education workshops Catskills prone to this appalling behav - to widen. The end result is a detri - such as map reading, basic navigation ior. We look forward to the day when we mental environmental impact, not to skills, seasonal hiking tips, and more. no longer have to plan for such tasks, mention a subpar hiking experience. but until that happens, we’re committed So what’s on deck to doing regular cleanups. for the work season? We’re also committed to completing We’re excited about working with the the hiking trail we started on the grounds Catskills Regional Invasive Species Part - of the soon-to-be-open Catskill Interpre - nership (CRISP) and the DEC on an tive Center in . Volunteer invasive species project in the southern trail builders, start blocking out work Catskills; our kick-off event at Russell days for swinging your mattocks–we’ll Brook Falls on May 2 is shaping up to be need plenty of strong backs to finish. a wonderful collaboration and a great opportunity for lots of volunteers to come Come Join Us out and have fun while making a differ - Care to lend a hand and make a differ - ence. We’ll be hand-pulling knotweed ence? Connect with the CCC by filling from the banks of the stream to restore the out the interest form on our website: The Long Distance Trails Crew and Trail Conference member club Ralph’s Peak view of the falls. http://catskillconservationcorps.org. Vol - Hikers Cabin Volunteer Club built 17 Also on the schedule, the Devil's Acre unteering with the CCC is a great way to new, enormous stone steps on a steep, lean-to rehab project will take place June get out into the woods and experience an eroded section of the Appalachian Trail. 13 and 14. Thanks to some great net - incredible sense of accomplishment and Len Lyon was out hiking in Harriman on working by Hunter Fire Tower pride. Be a part of something wonderful. Dec. 22, 2014, when he came across two The most permanent solution to Committee Chair Gordon Hoekstra, we Volunteer with the CCC this work season Trail Conference members completing a this problem is a trail reroute that will partner with a scout troop and other and discover just how much fun hard beautiful new bridge across Pine makes the tread less steep. But trails organizations to get that banged out in work can be! Meadows Creek above the Cascade of that are less steep must be longer to Slid. “This is not just a bridge,” Len says, take us where we want to go—up, to “this is a work of art.” He sent this photo the top of the mountain. When a of John Mack, our volunteer Trails Chair reroute isn’t an option, well-built RPH Cabin Volunteers Prep for New Season for the South Hudson region, at work. stairs are the answer. Stairs are a form By Tim Messerich Thank you for sharing, Len! of tread hardening. A rock or even a log is going to take a lot longer to Trail Conference member club Ralph’s Peak Hikers’ Cabin Volunteers are prepping wear away than sandy soil. Plus, they for their eighth season of trail work, which is slated to kick off with the cabin open - can help you gain a lot of rise over a ing and cleanup on April 4 in Hopewell Junction, NY. Join them Saturdays from short run. The trick is getting people 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for trail restoration projects, which this year include replanting to use the stairs you build. the Gerry Messerich Memorial Flower Garden, painting two bridges, reinstalling a Trail building is the intersection of 40-foot, uphill section of washed out stone steps in Fahnestock State Park (in collab - science and art. A structurally sound oration with fellow member club Jolly Rovers Trail Crew), installing a bulletin board staircase that isn’t built with hiker psy - kiosk at the Appalachian Trailhead on Route 301 in Fahnestock, and clearing the 20 chology in mind may be ignored. If miles of the Appalachian Trail that the club maintains. Many projects are expected to stairs don’t fit in with the surround - be completed during the club’s annual campout at RPH Cabin, taking place July The Trail Conference staff thanks REI ings, they may actually persuade some 10-12. All are welcome. For more information, email Tim Messerich for our snappy new branded vests and hikers to take a detour, which only ([email protected]) or visit http://rphcabin.org. shirts—gear we’ll proudly wear as we head exacerbates the original problem. On out to protect and preserve even more the flip side, a harmonious, natural- parks and trails this season. looking staircase may fall apart in the matter of a season if it’s not structural - Awareness Day We want to hear from you! The ly sound. Finding the confluence of the necessary strength and beauty is a On February 10, dozens of Trail Conference is looking for challenge that requires awareness of representatives from the Trail photos and stories from the the big picture as well as the smallest Conference and a number of other trails for our website and future detail. And it takes practice. organizations attended the third annual editions of Trail Walker . Share You can practice by checking out Catskill Park Awareness Day in Albany. trail tread while you are hiking. Ask During this day of advocacy, we educate your crew accomplishments, yourself: “Is it eroded? What is keep - lawmakers about the importance of the maintainer tips, hiking tales, or a Catskill Park and the Catskill Forest ing water on the trail? Why aren’t great image from your favorite Preserve to the region’s local people staying on the trail? What do I communities, to visitors, and to New park. For inclusion in the sum - like/not like about this staircase? Are these stairs comfortable to climb? York State. For a recap of our requests mer Trail Walker , submissions Why/why not? What makes people from lawmakers, visit our blog: must be received by May 4. For http://blog-tw.nynjtc.org/catskill-park- use/not use this staircase?” awareness-day-2015. consideration, send content to A good trail builder will understand [email protected]. the trail and its users and build to those needs and desires. Page 8 Spring 2015 Learn, Serve, Teach: The Trail Conference Conservation Corps

The New York-New Jersey Trail Confer - includes improving trail and land quality five AmeriCorps crews comprised of 22 Ridge Trail, and the Invasives Strike Force, ence’s Conservation Corps trains, enables, through sustainable building and AmeriCorps members, as well as which battles exotic invasive plant species and empowers future conservation leaders restoration solutions as mem - all volunteers interested in on all of the Trail Conference trail corri - by teaching sustainable trail building and bers of our trail crews. joining crew projects. dors. stewardship techniques. Our AmeriCorps Through that experience, These include the Mega - Our AmeriCorps program is made pos - members then use those skills to engage they become leaders in lithic Trail Crew sible by an Education Award Program and teach community volunteers and trail recruiting, training, and working on the Bear grant from The Corps Network, which users about the responsible use and care of retaining a diverse pool Mountain Trails Proj - has enabled the Trail Conference to man - open space, as well as the Trail Conference of volunteers for the ect, the Palisades Crew age and run its own independent mission. It is this relationship between Trail Conference. serving in Sterling For - AmeriCorps program since 2014. To find Corps members and volunteers that AmeriCorps members est State Park, the out more about our Corps projects this makes the program such a success. do not replace staff or Taconic Crew working season and how to volunteer with a crew, Our AmeriCorps members receive a existing volunteers, but aid in Fahnestock and Hud - check out www.nynjtc.org/corps. high-quality learning experience while and enhance our existing son Highlands State Parks, performing meaningful service through - capacities. the Long Path/SRT Crew serv - out our parks. Their extensive training In 2015, the Trail Conference will field ing the Long Path and Shawangunk

Trail Conference Adopts the A Day’s Hike On The Siwanoy Trail HikeSafe Hiker Responsibility Code We walked through brush thick with tangles and full of thorns, HikeSafe, a set of six simple guidelines for being prepared in the wilderness, was developed caught often by the strangle of the overgrown landscape. in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, where hiking is both immensely popular and We trekked on, then guided by freedom's pathways potentially dangerous due to the ruggedness of the area and the potential for severe weath - er. The Trail Conference, along with the New York State through the woods of Pelham Bay. Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the Catskill 3500 Club, have brought the hikeSafe program’s Hiker We knew that to reach the clearing and the shoreline Responsibility Code to the Catskills, where we have our fair share and the shade of the perfectly placed tree of rugged, remote, and beautiful trails. We look forward to promot - ing safe hiking and good stewardship through the Code with our was to rest in friendship, to enjoy a lunch, hikeSafe partners. For more information, contact Catskill Assistant to share the time to smile at stillness Program Coordinator Heather Rolland at [email protected]. and the heat of the Sun at midday. The Hiker Responsibility Code We kept the trail and we found the rocks and the water You are responsible for yourself, so be prepared: and the breeze that glides across it. With knowledge and gear. Become self-reliant by learning about the terrain, We sat among a circle of boulders conditions, local weather, and your equipment before you start. around a basin of gleaming brown mud To leave your plans. Tell someone where you are going, the trails you are hik - and ate the lunch and talked our ups and downs ing, when you will return, and your emergency plans. and tried to make sense of paths and entanglements. To stay together. When you start as a group, hike as a group, end as a group. Pace your hike to the slowest person. We witnessed a world of finger-length crabs To turn back. Weather changes quickly in the mountains. Fatigue and unex - that knew only of that crab world, pected conditions can also affect your hike. Know your limitations and when to postpone your hike. The mountains will be there another day. that knew only of the food to find and the cool of hiding For emergencies. Even if you are headed out for just an hour, an injury, severe weather, or a wrong turn could become life threatening. Don’t assume you will and the danger of desiccation. be rescued; know how to rescue yourself. That knew only of a place to defend, to advance To share the hiker code with others. to skitter sideways and backwards and swing their claws in an arena strewn with myriad shellfish death.

We realized that they could only know that crab world, that world that they could only make by being crabs. A world of crustacean excavation, and paths and entanglements, a world preempted by the swooping shadows, and in some ways not unlike our own.

—Stan Sherr

Trail Conference volunteer Stanley Sherr, an artist and poet who maintained the Cabot Trail in Fahnestock State Park for 16 years, recently hung up his clippers and retired. In honor of his service and dedication to trails, we’re publishing one of his poems that captures the beauty of hiking in and around the Hudson Valley. You can find more of his work at stanleysherr.com.

Registration Open for Black Rock Forest Consortium Summer Science Camp Teens in search of outdoor adventure can find it at the Black Rock Forest Consortium’s Summer Science Camp in Cornwall, NY. Now in its third full year, the 10-week-long sleep-away and day camp programs offer science, nature, and art immersion classes for students in grades 6 through 12. From lessons in writing about nature to a hands-on introduction to ornithology, middle and high school students learn about the outdoors while exploring their wild surroundings. Registration is now open; Trail Conference members receive a 10 percent discount. For more information, visit www.blackrockforest.org or call 845-534-4517. Spring 2015 Page 9 and straight ahead, New York. I told Jimmy, PEOPLE FOR TRAILS Wish Fulfilled: ‘We walk this trail together.’ I pointed towards New York. I said, ‘You’ll walk this A Last Hike on the trail without me.’ He looked at me and said he understood.” Appalachian Trail “While we were packing, Jimmy men - By Peter Dolan, New Jersey Program tioned to me that we didn’t see many animals, Coordinator and Keith Lyons, Hiker but we met some great people: Mad Max from Germany, NYU from Brooklyn, and Last summer, Keith Lyons contacted the Leslie from New Jersey. On his first hiking Trail Conference office asking for hike trip, Jimmy said he would bring his friends information. On the surface, this request backpacking to High Point one day. I knew was similar to countless other calls–Keith then the circle was complete.” Joe Ennesser wanted our help in planning a trip. He —Copperhead and Hawk (Trail names Wappinger, NY recalled a past trip on the Appalachian Trail of Keith Lyons and Jimmy Connolly) that had meant a lot to him, and wanted to The success of the try replicating it. There was one thing that Sometimes it’s easy to take what we do at Valley Greenway is thanks to made this call stand out, however: Keith the Trail Conference for granted. To be dedicated people like Joe was planning what would most likely be his blessed with the means and opportunity to Ennesser, a true champion of last hiking trip. enjoy our local parks and forests–whether outdoor recreation in the region. Keith was undergoing treatment for as a casual hiker or an active trail volun - The Chairman of the Wappinger prostate cancer, with a prognosis that did Keith and his godson Jimmy met with teer–is a privilege that we should never Greenway Committee, Ennesser not leave him much time. He spoke fond - Rebecca Fitzgerald, High Point forget. Keith’s story, and the incredible was instrumental in creating the ly of the Rutherford Shelter at High Point superintendent, before their hike. gratitude he has exhibited for the chance to 11-mile trail network in and State Park, where he had taken his godson take one last hike, is a reminder of how around the Town of Wappinger Jimmy camping years before. Now too become a reality, and on August 16, he lucky many of us are to be able to enjoy that is part of the larger, state- weak to hike to the shelter with a pack full arrived at High Point with Jimmy. He treasures like these on a whim. sanctioned Greenway all along of gear, Keith asked if we could help him asked us to share his story, transcribed in Keith wanted us to share his story to the Hudson. Though Ennesser’s access the shelter via a woods road. his words below: show how important these trails are, and eyeing retirement from his post Three people—High Point State Park how the experiences formed there can last a this spring, he’s not finished Superintendent Rebecca Fitzgerald and “These few parcels of land are magical, lifetime. So as you go about your days, making his mark on the New Jersey AT co-Chairs Gene Giordano healing places that must be maintained.” enjoying the beauty of spring unfolding, Wappinger Greenway quite yet. and Pete Zuroff—put their heads together “While at High Point we went to a concert remember to be grateful for the public and recommended the nearby High Point where an Irish band played. At sunset, we lands we all work to keep open to everyone. Preserving greenspace in shelter, with its easy access via a gated road. night-hiked back to the shelter listening to Happy trails. Wappinger: Ennesser joined the Keith was ecstatic that his dream of one last great music. The last day we walked to the Wappinger Greenway Committee camping trip with his godson might AT. On the trail to the left was , in 1998 thanks to his involvement with the Town of Wappinger Recreation St John’s in the Wilderness Is a Sanctuary for Hikers Commission. Along with then- By Thomas Parliment, PhD and Vicar Richard Jeske, PhD chairman Hank DiMarco, he worked on securing grants for Ever driven between Route 106 and Lake the project. When DiMarco Welch Parkway in Harriman State Park passed away, Ennesser asked the and wondered about that beautiful stone committee if he could step into church? It resembles one of those stone the role to further push the parish churches out of the English country - project forward. “And here I am,” side, something you might find envisioned he says, “still pushing.” In 2006, in the novels of the Bronte sisters. What is the 11 miles of the Wappinger an active church doing in middle of the Greenway Trail was recognized park, anyway? by New York State. The white- The church’s history has a special rela - blazed walking route links tionship to the hiking community. Built in natural, historic, industrial, and 1880, it was originally named St. John the business districts in the Town of Evangelist. But in the 1920s, an anony - Wappinger, the Village of mous hiker hung a sign on the front door Wappingers Falls, and the Town with the words “St. John’s in the Wilder - of Poughkeepsie in New York’s ness”—and ever since, that has been its Dutchess County. name, listed as such in the current directo - ry of the Episcopal Diocese of New York. Volunteerism as a second Each year, on Palm Sunday, the church rec - career: “I’ve dedicated myself to ognizes its special connection to outdoor recreation and keeping things in enthusiasts by holding a Hikers Service, its natural state whenever followed by a festive luncheon in the rustic possible,” says Ennesser, who barn across the street. has lived in Wappinger for 50 years. Those efforts go back to St. John’s in the Wilderness traces its ori - St. John’s in the Wilderness holds a special Hikers Service every year on Palm Sunday. gin to Ms. Elizabeth Zimmerman, who raising his children and getting funded its construction as a memorial for when that becomes economically feasible. close by, while the largest airplane crash in involved in youth programs like her husband after his sudden death on their Today, St. John’s is a welcoming place Harriman (a Boeing 727) occurred about ½ baseball and soccer. “Thank god honeymoon in 1878. She chose a 250-acre with a vibrant and energetic congregation, mile from the church in 1974. Remnants of for IBM; they gave me a lot of parcel of land north of Tuxedo, NY, and featuring programs like the Music on the that plane can still be found. community time off,” says the donated it and the finances to build St. Mountain concert series, which is open to You are invited to attend St. John’s annu - retired mechanical engineer, who John's to the Diocese of New York. In the public on Sunday afternoons during the al Palm Sunday service for hikers at 3 p.m. worked for the company for 38 1880 the cornerstone was laid, the building warm weather months. A visit to St. John’s on March 29, followed by a festive buffet years. was completed using the plentiful field - is a walk through another place in time, luncheon hosted by the parishioners at 4. What’s next for the Wappinger stone of the area, and the church was making it a lovely venue for weddings, All are welcome to participate in this long- Greenway: “We added five more dedicated and opened for public worship while receptions, reunions, and other events standing tradition. miles of trail to head south to under the ministerial leadership of the Rev. are held in its rustic barn. St. John’s in the Wilderness Church the Town of Fishkill over the last A. Warren Merrick. Many opportunities for hikers exist at St. is located at 16 Johnsontown Road four years,” Ennesser says. In 1883 the church opened its facilities John’s in the Wilderness. (Parking at the in Stony Point, NY. Regular services are “We’re putting the finishing for use as a home and school for orphaned church, however, is reserved for church activ - held every Sunday at 12:30 p.m. Visit touches on that right now. Once boys, adding a library and reading room for ities only. There is no parking allowed on St. www.stjohnsinthewilderness.org or call that’s done I think I’ll retire.” And use by the small surrounding community John’s Road, either.) The Long Path passes 845-786-0366 for more info. then what will he be up to? “As as well. The stained glass windows inside within 200 meters of the church, providing little as possible,” Ennesser the church tell much about the history of access to many portions of Harriman Park. Thomas Parliment is a long-time New York- laughs. “But I’ll still dabble.” St. John’s, as do the engravings on the head - The Big Hill shelter is about a 40-minute New Jersey Trail Conference member, stones in the churchyard outside. hike, as is Breakneck Pond. The Second and AMC hike leader, and retired chemist. Rev. With the establishment of Harriman Third reservoirs are easily reached, as are the Richard Jeske is the Vicar of St. John’s in the State Park in 1910, the church was left with Suffern-Bear Mountain, Beech, and Break - Wilderness Church. 49 acres of land, which can accommodate neck Mountain trails. For history seekers, the planned extension of the cemetery both the Barnes mine and Christie mine are

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Trail Conference on threatened and endangered animals, collection of information about valued Leading Regional conservation areas to protect, and support of an educational and demonstration proj - ect to remove Japanese knotweed and Efforts to develop a watershed plan in Dutchess County. Five PRISM interns worked on Combat Invasives projects including mapping (GIS) for use By Linda Rohleder, Ph.D., Director of in invasives surveillance, managing inva - Land Stewardship and Lower Hudson sives data, interviewing local land PRISM Coordinator managers, and conducting workshops and recruiting volunteers. 2014 was the first full year of the Lower The Lower Hudson PRISM made a con - Hudson Partnership for Regional Invasive certed effort to participate in New York C I V

Species Management (PRISM) operation State’s first Invasive Species Awareness O M A after the Trail Conference received our con - Week, July 6-13. We conducted more than D A

E K tract to organize the effort from New York 25 events during this week—approximate - I M State in August 2013. The purpose of ly one quarter of all the events held in the Columbine begins blossoming in mid-May and continues blooming until late June. PRISM is to coordinate all of the organiza - state. Further spreading the word, the Trail tions in eight counties across the region Conference’s Linda Rohleder represented who are working on invasive species and to our region at PRISM Leaders meetings and Welcoming the develop and execute a regional strategy. at an invasive species conference at Cornell, As leaders of the Lower Hudson PRISM, and gave presentations and educational Return of Red the Trail Conference convened several talks about invasives at numerous events. meetings of local organizations to complete The Trail Conference’s own Invasives Columbine our five-year strategic plan and the 2014 Strike Force continues to grow and con - By Mike Adamovic annual work plan with goals, objectives, tribute to efforts in both New York and actions, and outcomes. We signed 40 part - New Jersey. This past year we had just over In late spring, shortly after the woods have ners who have committed to support the 100 volunteers who surveyed 286 miles of attained a fresh layering of youthful green strategy of PRISM and provide a recap of trail throughout the area, the equivalent of and march toward the mature days of sum - their invasive species activities for our almost 3,500 acres surveyed. The data they mer, red columbine buds from the annual report. The list of partners can be collected resulted in over 13,500 observa - understory and makes a striking appear - seen on our web site, www.lhprism.org. tions. We also held more than a dozen ance, adding a dash of crimson to the volunteer work days to remove invasives, verdant sea that surrounds. Out of all the and our seasonal summer crew worked at spring ephemeral wildflowers, this delicate more than 20 locations performing plant is most likely to capture the attention removals and working with other regional of a passer-by. The chandelier-like blos -

teams to impact almost 120 acres. soms, which are mostly red but sport a rich, C I V Our 2015 season promises to be just as golden underside, possess a magical and O M A D

The Lower Hudson PRISM funded six active and productive. Join us as an Inva - audacious charm. A

E K projects, including surveys of aquatic inva - sives Strike Force volunteer surveyor or on Red columbine is a wide-ranging peren - I M sive species in Greenwood Lake, our removal crew. Go to nial that occupies the eastern half of the Hummingbirds are attracted to Red Columbine. determining the extent of hydrilla infesta - http://nynjtc.org/invasives to find more United States. Flowers are typically 1.5 tion in the Croton River, removal of a information. inches long with the plants growing 1-2 assist in achieving a long-lasting love, and hardy kiwi population in Pound Ridge, feet tall; columbine begins blossoming in appropriately used it to concoct love investigation of impacts of invasive species mid-May and continues blooming until charms. Europeans, however, believed the late June. The species has an affinity for flower symbolizes infidelity or the depart - TRAIL NEWS ROUNDUP slightly alkaline to neutral soil, and it's able ing of a lover. to thrive in places most other plants can’t Despite conflicting lore, columbine is continued from page 3 ideal to add to a home garden. The seeds Park and when the are relatively simple to propagate and New York State Department of Transporta - plants live up to 5 years. Also, as the leaves tion required the Clarkstown Planning are toxic to deer and rabbits, no effort has Department to close access from Long to be undertaken to protect plants from Clove Road to Route 9W in order to devel - woodland raiders. However, this is one op another access road for the local quarry. flower sure to draw dainty ruby-throated C I V

Upon petitions from volunteers Win Perry, O hummingbirds to your yard. Columbine M A

Dick Katzive, and several others, the town D also goes by the nickname of “wild honey - A

E K

When was the last quickly agreed to provide the Trail Confer - I suckle,” as the nectar reservoirs located at M ence with a trail easement, protecting the Columbine thrives where other plants can’t grow. the top of the flowers offer a saccharine time you thought future of the Path. A warm thank you also treat if imbibed. Be it by taste or by sight, about your legacy? to Senator David Carlucci’s office for their even gain a minor foothold. It’s not red columbine is likely to leave an indelibly support of this request. Both the senator uncommon to find these flowers sprouting sweet impression on all lucky enough to By including a bequest to the and Clarkstown officials have been strong from a vertical cliff face, as the roots are encounter it. Trail Conference in your will, supporters of trails. Thank you to all of our able to penetrate the tiniest of cracks and you will help us continue the members and volunteers, including Win, subsist on the barest amounts of soil. Mike Adamovic is a professional photogra - legacy of trails and connecting Dick, Marek Stycos, chair of member club Columbine is also apt to be found gracing pher who owns and manages Adamovic people with nature for Thendara Mountain Club, and all others spongy beds of moss deep within open and Nature Photography. He enjoys hiking generations to come. for their quick action and support. somewhat sunny forests. throughout the Hudson Valley and backpack - It’s not surprising that a flower of such ing the Appalachian Trail. For information, contact Trail Conference Awarded Grant by extraordinary beauty also boasts an impres - Don Weise, [email protected], Hudson River Foundation sive amount of lore. Native Americans or call 201-512-9348, ext. 13 The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference believed columbine possesses the power to was awarded a grant of $18,000 from the Hudson River Foundation’s Hudson River HOUSE FOR SALE-RINGWOOD, NJ Improvement Fund to support upgrades to the It’s Wildflower Season ******************************************** Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park in EnjoyEnjoy lakesidelakeside livingliving iinn a smallsmall llakeake communitycommunity ssurroundedurrounded bbyy sstatetate forests.forests. NoNo traffic,traffic, cleanclean Beacon, NY. It’s time to keep your eyes water,water, hikinghiking trails,trails, boatingboating aandnd ffishing.ishing. L o c a ted on the shore with direct access PerennialPerennial gardensgardens & a birdbird watcherswatchers paradise!paradise! peeled for emerging early spring CapeCape CCodod style,style, 3 BBR,R, 1 BBTH,TH, DDR,R, LLR,R, DDen/en/ to the Hudson River, the newly renamed OOffice.ffffice. 3 seasonseason enclosedenclosed porch.porch. FullFull base-base- Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park (for - blooms, such as the dimunitive mment.ent. OakOak ffloors,loors, nnewew wwindows.indows. NNewerewer roofroof & merly Riverfront Park) is open and free to trout lily ( ffurnace.urnace. AAboutbout oneone hhourour ccommuteommute toto NNYC.YC. Erythronium the public, making it a popular spot that americanum ) and spring beauty receives a high volume of visitors each year. (Claytonia virginica ), and even The proposed project will enhance and the rare bloodroot ( Sanguinaria promote the natural scenic and cultural ). Glimpses of spring resources of the Hudson River and the park canadensis flowers are becoming rarer as by installing 10 new high-quality benches, rehabilitating the entire half-mile trail sys - the plants diminish in our forests tem, and installing an educational kiosk. due to the dual impact of heavy The kiosk will highlight the significant deer browsing and invasive habitat restoration and rehabilitation of the species overcrowding. You park—previously a garbage dump—spear - can help with the latter by headed by the Seegers. volunteering with our Invasives Call Frank Capozzi Because of the long-lasting impact the Strike Force, which monitors Licensed Sales Associate project will have on waterfront access for McBride Agency Realtors and controls non-native plants Ofc: 201 891-8900/ Cell: 201 390-4272 future generations, the City of Beacon has committed a match towards the park along hiking trails. For more info, Keep your eyes open for glimpses 883434 FFranklinranklin LLakeake RRoadoad FFranklinranklin Lakes,Lakes, NNJJ 0074177417 improvements, representing approximately visit www.nynjtc.org/invasives. of spring wildflowers. Phone:Phone: 201201 89891-89001-8900 three quarters of the total cost. Spring 2015 Page 11 Another New Announcing a Completely PEOPLE FOR TRAILS Trail Shoe Trend By Howard E. Friedman, DPM New and Much-Improved Extra-thick-soled hiking shoes are being South Taconic Trails Map promoted this spring, with extra-thick hik - ing boots soon to follow. Some of these In spring 2015, a completely volunteers spent numerous products, referred to as “maximalist” shoes, new trail map covering the hours walking the trails with have soles that are more than three times as beautiful South Taconic GPS receivers to obtain accu - thick as standard hiking shoes. While maxi - Mountains becomes the latest rate trail data and identify malist shoes have been around for a few addition to the New York- viewpoints, campsites and Kay Cynamon years, they were mostly a boutique product. New Jersey Trail Conference’s shelters, parking areas, and New York, NY Now, national and regional retailers like REI catalog of quality maps. This other points of interest. Spe - and Campmor are selling this unique gear. third edition of South Taconic cial thanks goes out to Kay Cynamon doesn’t exactly Trails is the first digitally pro - volunteer project manager see the “work” in all of the duced edition of the map. In Kay Cynamon, who not only volunteer work she’s done for fact, it’s an entirely different helped manage the new map the Trail Conference. “I just like and vastly improved upgrade but also GPSed the majority loping around outside,” says the from the previous 2006 edi - of the trails on the map. (See Manhattan-based physician, who’s tion. her People for Trails profile to been a Trail Conference member Made by the people who the right.) for over 20 years. “If I can be build the trails, this map fea - The area this new map helpful and it serves a purpose to tures more than 100 miles of covers has been expanded to carry a GPS, that’s even better.” Maximalist trail shoes stand out primari - marked trails throughout the 17 parks and preserves, ly for one feature: mid-sole material almost South , including , Over the last two years, Cynamon 1.25 inches thick, often made of a propri - which extend over three State Park, and her GPS hiked and recorded etary mix of ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA) foam states--Dutchess and Columbia Counties Mount Washington State Forest, Mount the locations of more than 100 blended with rubber to create increased in New York, Berkshire County in Massa - Everett Reservation, Jug End Reservation, miles of marked trails in the South cushioning. At first glance, these look like chusetts, and Litchfield County in and Mount Riga State Park. Additional Taconic Mountains; thanks to her platform shoes that have no business on a Connecticut. A particularly valuable fea - map features include UTM gridlines, green efforts, hikers can now own the rocky, uneven hiking trail. Yet, these shoes ture of the map is its inclusion of overprint for public access lands, parking latest, greatest edition of the Trail are now routinely worn by some of the approximately 34 miles of the Appalachian areas, viewpoints, and other points of inter - Conference’s South Taconic Trails most successful athletes who are winning Trail passing through and est. As always, the maps are printed in map. “The hiking itself is not hard,” ultra-trail marathons, like the famous Connecticut. The 16-mile-long South vibrant color on waterproof, tear-resistant Cynamon says. “The only hard Western States 100-Mile Race (Karl Taconic Trail is shown in its entirety, with Tyvek. thing for me is traveling 100-150 Meltzer) and posting speed records on the an additional six-mile extension shown as At only $6.95 ($5.21 for Trail Conference miles to get there!” (She’s looking Pacific Crest Trail (Heather “Anish" Ander - “under construction” while Trail Confer - members), this long-awaited and much forward to the day cars drive son) and John Muir Trail (Liz Thomas). ence crews work on the ambitious project, anticipated map is a must-have for enjoying themselves, she explains.) anticipated to be completed in late 2015. the bountiful outdoor experiences through - Proponents of “maximalist” This edition contains a number of out the South Taconics region. To obtain the Cynamon began volunteering in enhancements over the previous analog new printed map, shop online at www.nyn - the South Taconic region as an shoes claim they promote map. All of Taconic State Park now appears jtc.org, call 201-512-9348, or stop in at the accidental maintainer. About 15 a natural gait with less on a single map, which also includes sever - Trail Conference office. The map is also years ago, she took a hike up al nearby parks and preserves with trails of available in digital format on Apple and through forceful impact. their own. Contour intervals have been Android devices through the PDF Maps overgrown trails. She wrote to increased from 100 feet to 20 feet for easi - app; learn more about our GPS-enhanced the Trail Conference about the Hikers, backpackers, and ultra- er identification of steep terrain. Trail maps at www.nynjtc.org/pdfmaps. problem, and received a response marathoners have embraced these mileage figures, representing distances Visit trailpubs.nynjtc.org and click on the asking if she’d like to help fix the redesigned shoes for a few reasons. First, between trail junctions, now appear on the South Taconic Trails cover panel for addi - situation by becoming a the generous cushioning through the mid- map front. In addition, an enlarged inset tional resources, including suggested hikes, maintainer. “I figured since I’d sole layer provides shock absorption map shows more detail of trails in the pop - park contact information, and much more! mouthed off I should say yes,” whether on the trail or on the road. The ular Bash Bish area and adjacent state park Cynamon recalls. “Gradually, I shoes have either minimal “drop”—the campground area at Copake Falls. adopted about six miles of trails up height difference between the heel and the The entire trail network in the South there, which is kind of ridiculous forefoot—or no drop at all. Proponents of Taconics has been completely replotted for a volunteer,” she laughs. shoes with minimal or zero drop claim they using state-of-the-art Global Positioning This map set was produced with support from Off the trails, Cynamon served as promote a natural gait with less forceful System (GPS) technology and high-resolu - Campmor, an outdoor store and retail part - the South Taconic map’s project impact and allow for a more efficient func - tion aerial imagery. Trail Conference ner of the Trail Conference. manager and researcher. “I get so tioning of the achilles tendon. Finally, much enjoyment out of hiking and maximalist shoes, now sold by mainstream being outdoors, and everything brands such as Vasque, Brooks, and Skech - New Harriman-Bear Mountain about it,” Cynamon says. “The ers, in addition to the most popular opportunity to give back so other manufacturers Hoka One One and Altra, Trail Maps Are In people can enjoy these trails generally have a wider and more anatomi - makes me very happy.” cally shaped toe box. Our new, 2015 edition of the Harriman-Bear You’ll be able to find that A few years ago, when shoe companies Mountain Trails map set is now available and promoted “barefoot” running and trail enthusiasm in her next project with shoes like Vibram Five Fingers, they cited has already received rave reviews for its the Publications Committee: a trails research and quoted biomechanics experts inclusion of detailed trail mileage numbers guidebook to Morris County, NJ. supporting the shoes’ benefits. Now, very along the trails. This revision, featuring several few maximalist companies are citing any additions and improvements, is the most research backing their claims, yet the shoes significant update since 2007. It’s a must-have are catching on with elite and recreational for exploring the huge trail network trail runners and hikers. Some weekend throughout Harriman and Bear Mountain State hikers claim that these cushioned, low- Parks. The maps are available in print on drop shoes with a lot of room for their toes have helped resolve nagging problems like waterproof, tear-resistant Tyvek as well as in heel pain and shin splints. One note of cau - digital format through Avenza’s PDF Maps app. tion, however: The elevated design of these Learn more about the maps on our website. shoes may prove unstable to anyone prone to ankle sprains. And if you are getting good results with your current hiking A LEGACY OF ADVOCACY the sound of gunfire (as well as its potential shoes, then no need to switch. continued from page 2 dangers, however small the odds). Many of our members have already expressed their Howard E. Friedman, DPM, is an avid The same recognition rings true today— dismay with this bill, which caters to a small hiker, a podiatrist in Suffern, NY, and a that it is the hard work of a few that makes group of outdoor enthusiasts to the detri - frequent contributor to Trail Walker . Find possible the enjoyment by many. In the past ment of all others. more of Dr. Friedman’s health tips for hikers year alone, the Trail Conference has leapt We rely on a well-informed public to on our website, nynjtc.org/news/health-news. into battle against numerous threats— show that they care about these issues. By including the casinos in Sterling Forest and educating our members and showing ways Woodbury and the LG building atop the to get involved, we hope to provide them Hudson Palisades. with a voice to let their representatives HISTORIC HUDSON RIVER COTTAGES Affordable studio, one and two bedroom homes available in Most recently, a bill has been proposed know how they want their public lands historic cottage cooperative in Westchester County, off the which would allow hunting on Sundays in treated. In return, we rely on our members Hudson River, one hour from NYC. Dating back to 1929, New Jersey. The current ban on Sunday to let us know about the latest threats to the this three-season community offers swimming pool, tennis court, organic community garden, social hall with internet hunting allows outdoor recreationalists of trails. You can always stay up to date on the and social activities. $25,000-$100,000+. 917-880-5419. all stripes at least one day a week to enjoy latest trail-related issues by checking out www.reynoldshills.org. Contact melgarfi[email protected]. the great outdoors without worrying about the advocacy pages on our website. Page 12 Spring 2015

Torne Trail. Make a sharp left here and fol - Mountain–the closest summit from this low the Timp-Torne Trail up the stone vantage point. Featured Hike steps. The Timp-Torne Trail will be your After taking in the views, turn left and route for the next 1.45 miles. The trail begin to follow the white-blazed By Don Weise now climbs steadily over exposed rocks to Appalachian Trail (AT). After following a the West Mountain Shelter (built in rather eroded trail, the AT turns sharp right 1928), a good place to break for lunch. down a set of steps and continues to Shake Off Winter with a The shelter affords panoramic views of the descend on a long switchback, following a Timp, the Hudson River and the New more sustainable and attractive route con - Circuit Hike Up Cats Elbow York City skyline. structed in 2014 by the Trail Conference Continue ahead on the blue-blazed Long Distance Trails Crew (LDTC). This Timp-Torne Trail. In 500 feet, the yellow- relocation features stone steps, massive crib blazed S-BM Trail joins from the right. walls, and giant stepping stones at the Bear left here and begin to follow the co- stream crossing. (For a full account of the aligned Timp-Torne and S-BM Trails, with work done by this crew on West Mountain, blue and yellow blazes. Just ahead on your visit our blog: http://blog-tw.nynjtc.org.) left are views of the Cats Elbow section of The AT crosses Beechy Bottom Road diag - West Mountain, where you hiked earlier in onally to the left at 4.3 miles, immediately the day. After traversing the highest part of descending steps put in by the LDTC as West Mountain, the two trails split at 3.45 part of the relocation and trail restoration. miles. Continue straight ahead, now once Continuing downhill on the AT, you’ll again following only the blue blazes of the intersect the Bike Path again in 0.2 mile.

Timp-Torne Trail. Turn right at the “Bike Path–Parking H G O

L In another 0.15 mile, you’ll reach a T- Lot–10 Minutes” sign. In 0.6 mile, you’ll A B

N intersection, marked by a wooden signpost. reach the parking lot where the hike began. A D To your left is Jackie Jones Mountain, with Views of The Timp and Hudson River from the Timp-Torne Trail. Pick up a copy of our new Harriman-Bear Mountain State Parks map set its large communications tower and much featuring trail mileage figures to track your distance as you hike along. smaller fire tower. Straight ahead is Black It’s spring—time to shed a few layers and for the red-dot-on-white-blazed Ramapo- stretch your legs. This Cats Elbow loop Dunderberg (R-D) Trail. You will be Hikers’ hike in Harriman State Park is 5.1 miles following the R-D Trail for the next 1.65 with a 1,440-foot elevation gain; it takes miles. After climbing steeply to a broad Marketplace approximately 3.5 hours and offers some of west-facing viewpoint, the trail bears right the best views in the park. This spring, the and continues to climb, soon reaching a Go Places with Trail Maps and Trail Conference will be publishing a brand panoramic viewpoint at the top of the Cats new guide to loop hikes in the park titled Elbow. This vantage point offers views of the Books from the Trail Conference. Circuit Hikes in Harriman by our Member - Hudson River, the Palisades, and the New ship and Development Director Don York City skyline. Here, 1.3 miles from the Weise. A fully detailed description of this start, the yellow-blazed Suffern-Bear Moun - Get the complete set route will be featured in the book; until tain (S-BM) Trail joins from the right. then, enjoy this sneak peek at the guide. The R-D and S-BM Trails run together of trail maps at one for about 300 feet to a small ledge. You great, low price! Trail Access: Take the Palisades Interstate should continue straight ahead following the Our map combo offers all of our Parkway to Exit 17 (Anthony Wayne red-dot-on-white-blazed R-D Trail, which high-quality Trail Conference maps Recreation Area) which is three miles crosses a high, fire-scarred plateau with lim - southwest of Bear Mountain Bridge. Pro - ited views. The trail descends briefly and at a 5% discount (members get an ceed past the first parking lot, then turn left traverses a section of rugged, exposed vol - additional 25% discount). Save big at a sign for the “Far South Parking Lot,” canic rock. There are excellent views of the on shipping charges! continue through this very large parking Timp and the Hudson River from here. lot, and park at the southern end of the lot, After crossing an intermittent stream, the Find it on our online store under Combos. near a kiosk and picnic benches. trail steeply climbs a rocky slope, turning right at the top. Pay careful attention to the We cover your favorite hiking areas in the New York-New Jersey region, Description: From the kiosk at the south - blazes, as this sharp right turn is easy to including Harriman-Bear Mountain, the Catskills, North Jersey and Jersey ern end of the parking area, proceed south miss. Descend to Timp Pass; you will notice Highlands, East and West Hudson Highlands, and more. on the Horn Hill Bike Path, with blue-on- the Red Cross Trail on your right, the R-D Find all our publications, and select trail guides from others, on our website, white diamond blazes, entering a white pine Trail proceeding straight ahead, and the and get your 25% member discount ! forest. After crossing a fourth bridge, you’ll unmarked Timp Pass Road on your left. pass a small knoll on the left and cross the You have now traveled a total of 2.35 miles. Visit www.nynjtc.org/panel/goshopping! white-blazed Appalachian Trail (AT). Turn left (north) on Timp Pass Road. In Or call 201-512-9348 After crossing the AT, be on the lookout 0.1 mile, watch for the blue-blazed Timp- Support Trails, Parks and Open Join/Renew NY-NJ Trail Conference Membership Space in the New York-New Jersey 2,000 miles of trails; your membership helps us expand our horizons. Included with membership, Trail Walker , 10% discount on purchases at many region by joining the New York- outdoor stores, and 25% discount on all Trail Conference maps and books purchased directly from the Trail Conference. Save time and a tree by joining or New Jersey Trail Conference. renewing online at www.nynjtc.org. Just click on the Join/Renew Now button. MEMBERSHIP TYPE Select one: Join Renew Membership # if available______The Trail Conference maintains more than 2,000 miles e of trails, advocates for parks, protects open space, and Individual Joint/Family

c provides volunteer service opportunities in the great outdoors. Regular $30 $40 S

n Sponsor $60 $75 Your membership supports the trails you love and gives Benefactor $120 $150 e you these additional benefits: Go to nynjtc.org/membership

r Senior (65+) $25 $30 T Life $1,000 $1,500

e 25% Discount on Trail Conference maps, books, f I and other products. Visit nynjtc.org/panel/goshopping

n A joint membership is for two adults residing at the same address. Great Discounts at supporting outdoor retailers

o and other businesses. See our partners at For my membership of $50 or more, send me a: F Trail Conference Cap OR Harriman-Bear Mountain Map Set

C nynjtc.org/content/retail-partners

To purchase a gift membership, call 201-512-9348, extension 26. l Tuition-Free Enrollment in our Trail University i

E introductory courses Name ______a

r Workshops and Seminars on trail maintenance Address ______

T and construction, leadership training, wilderness first aid, City ______State ______Zip ______

chainsaw operation, environmental monitoring N Day Phone ______Evening Phone ______and GPS operation. Learn more about Trail U at J E-MAIL ______nynjtc.org/trailu Check or money order enclosed Visa Mastercard Amex N E

- Access to a wide range of volunteer opportunities Card # ______Exp. Date: ____/ ____ on-trail and off-trail. Visit nynjtc.org/volunteer Make check or money order payable to the NY-NJ Trail Conference, Y Find links to all these and more at nynjtc.org. and mail to: 156 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah, NJ 07430. N B Tax-deductible. Dues are not refundable.