Diamond Mtn. ​& Pine Meadow Lake

Duration: 5 Hours
Difficulty: Moderate - Hard 
Distance: Up to 9 Miles
Elevation: 1,200 Feet

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This hike, located in the southwest section of Harriman State Park, is a moderately challenging hike, with several small streams to cross on stones or logs. This is one of my favorite hikes with countless cascades, various terrain, and great views.

The trail begins following the scenic Stony Brook, which flows year round. The uphill ascent is steady but gradual.

After some rock hopping, the trail crosses the river on a wooden footbridge. Ga-Nus-Quah Rock, a rock outcropping with a river running through, offers the perfect backdrop for a rest stop. The trail then continues its gradual ascent along a mountain laurel path before reaching a side trail that leads to the shore of Pine Meadow Lake.

After the lake, the trail continues up Diamond Mountain with some switchbacks to help with the steep incline. As we gain the ridge, we’re rewarded with one viewpoint after another. The summit, around 1,230 feet offers views south all the way to the New York City skyline on a clear day, West to the rest of the park, and Southeast to pine meadow lake.

The trail follows the ridgeline to the Western side of diamond Mountain with great viewpoints along the way, and eventually begins descending back through Mountain Laurel and across a few more streams.

There is currently a bridge out, so a short detour leads up to the Cascade of Slid, a small waterfall with a wooden footbridge that provides easy access back across the river. The scenic stony brook will lead us all the way back to the visitor center, completing this fantastic loop hike.

Optional Variations:
Harriman State Park has a large trail system, allowing us to shorten or extend the planned route as we go. This hike can can be routed to follow the Seven Hills trail, which  incorporates several steep uphill ascents with some exciting rock scrambles, adding a level of difficulty.

Meeting Location: Reeves Meadow Visitors Center, 
7 Seven Lakes Drive, Southfields, NY 10975
There is limited or no cell phone service at this location.
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Guided Day Hikes Include:

• Licensed guide and certified wilderness first responder
• Group gear (Water filter, first aid kit, maps, compass)
• Snacks & water bottles
• Trekking pole rental

What to Bring:

• Comfortable, sturdy footwear (Trail runners or hiking boots)
• Rain jacket, poncho or umbrella
• Lunch (optional - snacks and water provided)​​

*Portions of this trail may be muddy and slick due to the proximity to rivers and streams. Sturdy footwear required.*

*Return times are best estimates, and can vary based on the speed and fitness level of the group.*