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Hike Alpine White Trail (Stateline Lookout)

Closter, New Jersey

5.0/5
based on 3 reviews

Details

Distance

5 miles

Elevation Gain

-520 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Anthony D'Ercole

Great way to spend the day with friends and family and to enjoy the outdoors. Better in the warmer months but still a great experience all year round due to the combination of beautiful nature and historic value.

Starting at about 520 feet, the White path takes you along the Stateline Lookout which is a small stone building overlooking the Hudson River. The initial descent is your average hike through the woods and across a couple of wooden bridges until you reach the Giant Steps. The Giant Steps take you to the Shore Path which parallels the Hudson River and leads you through woodland/somewhat marshy grounds before opening up to a large boulder path. It is not recommended to attempt this portion of the hike after heavy rain and especially if it had snowed. Following the rock path is an extension of the woodland scenery which will lead past a waterfall which is ideal to stop for lunch and to rest.This area contains a ice cold pool at the base of the waterfall with a sketchy but harmless stone building that is closed off. Along the water is a small sand/dirt peninsula with a wooden swing looking out onto the water. This location marks the end of the shore path and the 500 foot descent begins with very steep increments of 18 inch steps. The hard work pays off however, due to the fact that the steps are adjacent the waterfall and the apex of these steps will take you to the crest of the falls marking this as the most enjoyable part of the hike. This path is about 5 miles and requires some skill so on most days you can maneuver the entire path without seeing another group. The remainder of the hike is your average walk in the woods and will allow you to stop along an unmarked statue and some state border fencing. Continue to follow the path and you will return to State Line Lookout Road and just make a left and walk past the Lookout Inn to return to your car. 

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Features

Fitness
Chillin
Fishing
Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Family Friendly
Forest
Romantic
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildlife

Hike Alpine White Trail (Stateline Lookout) Reviews

Peaceful and beautiful. Rocks can get slippery in winter after snow so be careful!

Like the previous reviewer said, beautiful views and a challenging hike. Plus there’s over a mile of rock scramble! You’ll be traveling along a short section of the Long Path which courses through the entire length of the park (turquoise), blue and white, and white trail back to rejoin the turquoise trail which goes back to State Line Lookout. Can be completed in either direction (from Long Path north or long path south), either way you’ll have to get down the cliff and back up at the other end via stone steps no matter which direction you choose. Wear waterproof shoes as you might get wet walking through streams if there has been recent heavy rainfall. Lots of scenic places to venture slightly off trail and stop for photos or lunch.

Breathtaking views and challenging hike

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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