Northern Harriman State Park
West Mountain Day Hike

Duration 4-5 Hours
Distance: 7.5 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate - Challenging
Elevation: 1,800 ft.

View Availability & BOOK ONLINE

From the parking lot at Anthony Wayne Recreation Area, this hike begins on a wide ski trail with about a half mile to warm up along relatively flat terrain before heading up the Ramapo-Dunderberg trail. 

We'll pass some of the best viewpoints in Harriman State Park, South to NYC on a clear day and East to the Hudson River. The terrain varies throughout this hike, and there are several steep and rocky sections with a total of almost 1,800 feet in elevation gain. Less than 2 miles into our hike, we'll reach the "Cats Elbow," our first viewpoint at an elevation of about 1200 feet.

​The next viewpoint, "The Timp," offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and parkland below. The trail then descends down to the Timp Brook, where we'll stop to collect and filter water as needed. 

After our final 800ft ascent up West Mountain, we'll be rewarded with more views of the Hudson river valley below. The lean-to at the West Mountain Shelter does not have a water source, but makes up for it with views all the way to the NYC skyline on a clear day. This is the best campsite in the park to watch the sunset from, and see the city lights sparkle in the distance after dark.

Following the Appalachian Trail Southbound down the ridge of West Mountain, about 2.5 mile hike out with more fantastic scenery and viewpoints along the way.

Meeting Location: Anthony Wayne Recreation Area
Anthony Wayne Drive, Tomkins Cove, NY
GPS: 41.297987, -74.026561

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)

There is no cell phone service at some meeting locations.

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