Rails to Trails to Ales

Group: Appalachian Mountain Club

When: Saturday, October 14, 9:30 am

Where: Cold Springs, New York

Cost: Free

Details:

We’re hitting Breakneck Ridge in style this Saturday before it closes indefinitely by doing a late-day and mostly un-crowded trek over the main trail, then up and down two more peaks for a dazzling sunset at Mt. Beacon and nighttime descent into town. We will be taking the 9:43 AM train from Grand Central, arriving at the Breakneck Ridge stop at 11:09 AM (Meet in front of the Clock at the Information Booth by 9:30 AM or sit in the last car). We will be moving at a mostly slow pace but through VERY challenging terrain with several rock scrambles requiring participants to be able to climb. Must bring a flashlight and/or headlamp, as well as water, lunch, and proper clothing and footwear. There will be optional visits to a taproom, wine bar, Irish pub with music, and a whiskey distillery in the hip town of Beacon. Hikers can take the train home from the Beacon Metro North station whenever they want.

Approx. 2,000 ft. elevation gain and 7 difficult miles (add a few for strolling Beacon). We are returning AT NIGHT, so participants must be comfortable descending on a steep grade with loose rocks in total darkness. Not suitable for beginners or folks with evening plans in NYC. I reserve the right to refuse anyone not properly prepared. Drivers, this is a point-to-point hike, but you’re welcome to park at the Breakneck lot and take an Uber back there after the hike/social. Heavy rain cancels.