Manaticut Point and Lake Sonoma Loop

Norvin Green State Forest is one of the best-kept secrets in the New Jersey Highlands — a rugged, rewarding stretch of the Ramapo Mountains that rewards hikers with rocky summits, cascading waterfalls, stream crossings, and sweeping ridge views. The 8-mile loop with 1,538 feet of elevation gain is a legitimate workout that feels far removed from the surrounding suburbs, yet sits less than an ho...

On my way to the drive-in, I saw a sign for Ringwood Manor estate and wanted to adventure around. The parking is easy and the property was beautiful! As we walked through the estate, we found: a quaint tree foresta small cemetery with headstones hundreds of years olda river with a small waterfall formed by a stone walla pond full of swansgardens with fountains and colorful flowersmany open f...

From Warwick Road, parking at the northernmost road side parking area, cross the road, and the Terrace Pond North trail (marked with blue blazes) begins as a steady climb until you gain a ridge that offers some great views for several miles. Eventually, you'll reach a power line where you turn right. Keep an eye out when to re-enter the forest on the left. Once back in the forest, follow the tr...

Hank's Pond loop can be accessed from the south at the corner of Clinton road and Van Orden road or from the north, parking at the lot on Stephens road.  I hiked from the south on this trip.  Follow the wide trail known as Hank's East trail marked with white blazes.  Soon you will reach a trail connected marked with blue blazes.  Along this connector are several short access trails to Hank's Po...

Bearfort Mountain is a great weekend morning hike that borders NJ and NY. Parking can be tricky as the entrance to the lot looks like it is Greenwood Lake Marina's boat storage area. Once parked, find the trail entrance at the top of the little hill and continue to the blue on white marked trail. As the trail steeply climbs (1,200-1,250ft in 0.8 miles), be on the look out for the Ernest Walker ...

The Four Birds Trail is about 19 miles long and is a great thru hike or can be done in sections as out and back hikes or part of loop hikes with other trails.  Starting from the north, the trail ascends gradually over easy terrain until you reach a cliff ridge.  There are several good view points to the east.  The trail (marked with white blazes) parallels a forest road.  It is best to stay on ...