| NATIONAL PARKS QUICKLINKS |
This trail was marked in varying places as a 50-60 mile route, but it was definitely under 45 miles. You are never very far from civilization, with occasional views of houses through the trees, and the ubiquitous road crossings. The route is extremely flat, but not uninteresting. I went from east to west, but perhaps the trail would be best the other way around. The eastern end will eventually continue as the Paumonok Path, which friendly trail markers remind you of for the length of the trail. The trail is well-established, and sporadically blazed with white blazes. The western section follows a route that was originally purchased by the state for a highway project, but the road never materialized, and now it is kept as a greenway, which is fortunate, but proves for uninteresting hiking. The route is arrow-straight over hard packed sand, through a wooded residential neighborhood. Much like road walking. But the western end provides a beautiful experience to erase that memory, with a wandering trail through an expansive state park. Watch out for ticks throughout, I was covered in hundreds despite long pants, high socks, careful walking and lots of spray. Also, very little water is to be had on the trail. I had to make a detour off the trail for a refill. Carry lots of water, and restock at whatever option presents itself. Plenty of back country camping spots are available along the trail. Permit is required from the DEC, but that's free and easy to obtain. Allow at least 2 weeks processing time, or get a 30-day temporary permit with no hassle.
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