New York City: Schunnemunk Mountain
Traverse steep ridges and swampland north of the Big Apple.
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This strenuous 10-mile semi-loop connects two rugged, parallel ridges flanking the swampy Baby Brook Valley, offering wide views of rural Orange County. Pick up the Trestle Trail at the foot of the massive Moodna Viaduct, highest and longest railroad trestle in the East. Go 1.5 miles and bear right onto the Barton Swamp Trail, then left onto the Long Path and follow it over dark red puddingstone outcroppings. Descend to Baby Brook, then climb the western ridge to Jessup Trail near the crest of the second ridge. From here, Schunnemunk’s summit is 1 mile. A bit later, a spur trail leads to the Megaliths, a cluster of huge rock slabs. Just before Baby Brook, the Jessup Trail veers right. Go straight onto the Barton Swamp Trail across the brook. After the last climb, the Trestle Trail rejoins on the west ridge. Go right onto it and return to car.Info: USGS quad: Cornwall; www.nynjctbotany.org/whudson/nyschunemunk.html
Hike provided by Chris and Catherine Brooks, authors of 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles: New York (Menasha Ridge Press)
Miles from city center: 64
Waypoints
Moodna Viaduct
Location: 41.4263, -74.0974426
