I plan to burn some calories before the hvh holiday party, join me!
Distance: 8.5-9 miles (option for 4M or 6M loop)
Duration: 4-5 hours (depending on the condition)
Elevation gain: Approx 2400 feet
Difficulty: Moderate hike at a moderate pace of 2.5-2.7MPH on a moderate route with a lot of short uphill climbs EXCEPT for the first 1100' climb on Major Welch. Major Welch will be difficult for anyone, and everyone should climb at their own pace.
Gear: MICRO SPIKES, headlamps, Clothing for changing temps/wind/RAIN/snow; water; snacks Map: NY/NJ Trail Conference map for Harriman-Bear Mountain; Avenza phone app for Harriman-Bear Mountain (combined map) .
The Hike: Please read the entire description before signing up. This hike is not recommended as a "first-ever" hike. The first section is a difficult 1100' steep climb on the rocky terrain of Major Welch. We will regroup at the perkins tower. If you need more time, feel free to start earlier. Other than Major Welch, this is a moderately difficult hike at a moderate pace as close to 2.5 mph as I can maintain. Faster hikers are noy obligated have to wait for me or slower hikers. Everyone can hike at their own paceT here is no "sweeper" following the last hiker(s).
The hike starts at the posted time. We will meet just outside of the Bear Mountain Inn close to the main parking lot (where the pin is on the map). Once we head out, we will follow Major Welch (red) around Hessian Lake. After approximately .5 mile, we will start our 1.5 mile climb up to Perkins Tower. The rocks will be steep and slick, climb safely at your own pace. We will enjoy the scenary at the top for approximately 10 minutes.
After regrouping, we will head toward the AT on the backside through the blue trail. We will take this all the way down to the west mountain. On the west mountain ridge, AT will split with the blue trail. We will keep left and follow the blue trail to the west mountain peak and make a small excursion to the West Mountain Shelter where we will break for a snack.
After the break, we will backtrack a bit and turn right onto the SBM (yellow). This will take us all the way to the bear mountain inn, by the rink.
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NOTE: You are responsible for bringing appropriate gear, supplies, clothing, first aid, and lights. You should review topographic maps and trail features carefully; understanding topography of any hike is key to your knowing where you are, where you're going, and how to get back. See suggestions for GEAR on the "About" page for additional gear ideas.
If you join us for a hike (or any other event), please understand that you are responsible for your own preparedness and well-being and will hold no one else liable in case of injury or mishap. You agree not to hold the Organizer, Assistant Organizers, or any other members responsible for any injuries, mishaps, or any other situation that may happen at a planned event. You are responsible to research the event, know the area, and bring the proper gear.
Your attendance on a hike signifies that you have read and accept the terms of this liability waiver. Full waiver can be found on the ABOUT page.
