Groundhog Day Hike: Russian Bear

Hike through Harriman State Park, one of New York’s largest state parks, which boasts over 200 miles of hiking trails. It is home to over 30 lakes, meandering streams and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Begin your ascent following the ridge of Ramapo Torne until it reaches the summit of the Torne, which offers amazing views of Torne Valley, Hillburn and Suffern from a rock outcrop. Pass imposing cliff towers and mountain laurel thickets while gradually climbing the trail. After crossing several wooden bridges and ascending a series of stone steps, see the Russian Bear, a large boulder that once stood precariously on the edge of a cliff but has since fallen to rest beside the trail. A panoramic view of the surrounding valleys extends from behind the “bear.”

From here the trail will take us up a steep ridge for a scramble and then undulate over rocky high points. After a lake shore lunch (and a swim in the summer!), we will gradually descend as we listen for the roar of Stony Brook down below.

 

Event Intensity Level

This hike is Intensity Level 4. Read a full description of all levels.

Event Details

• Bring Lunch and 2 liters water (minimum per person) in a backpack or hip pack.
• Wear Weather-appropriate athletic clothing (ski jacket or similar outer layer, warm layers (fleece, wicking layer, anything other than cotton), comfortable athletic pants (not jeans), hat, gloves, scarf, hiking boots (or athletic shoes). A base layer of long johns (poly or silk) is a good idea, as well as an extra pair of socks. As we may encounter wet or snowy trails, we strongly recommend hiking boots or trail runners, not tennis shoes. Bring more warm layers than you think you need — it is always colder and windier in the mountains than in NYC. Note: We love comfy cotton clothes for lounging, but they just aren't the best thing for outdoor excursions. Why? Cotton holds moisture, gets heavy and loses its insulative properties. Wool is best, but any synthetic is better than cotton for hiking. Polyester, poly blends, polypropylene, DryWick, DryFIT — any of these will serve you better than cotton.
• Departure Time 8:00 AM. Please arrive at 7:45 AM for check-in. Please check weekend subway schedules! Our trips leave on time.
• Return Time Approximately 5:00 PM
• Departure Location Our passenger vans depart from the NE corner of 73rd Street and Broadway — meet in front of Apple Bank (Subways to 72nd Street: 1,2,3)

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