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 Reporter |
Summary: I just did this area for first time. It is an incredible area to explore. I took the west ridge up were there are many stream crossings. The Shawangunks are referred to as the Gunk’s. It is a unique and sensitive environment were you find a ridgetop dwarf pine barrens and white conglomerate rock. There are many ledges in the area, so you have to be careful were you step. Also in the area are many waterfalls and sky lakes. I took the Smiley path up to the unmarked High Point path to the summit of High Point. Then I took the Blue marked trail to the smiley path and back to parking. Most of the trail is easy to follow, except the blue trail that takes you through the pine plains. There are very few blazes on the trees due to the fact that the pines are only4-6 ft tall. The trail itself is worn but has never been trimmed. You end up walking through knee deep blueberry bushes. It felt more like a bushwhack. This is why it is important to have a map. Trailhead: From Port Jervis NY take 209 North to town of Ellenville. In center of town make a right on Canal Street. Go about a mile and make a left onto Berme RD. Make right at fire house (There will be a sign for trail parking) Take pass fire house. Parking lot behind fire house. To find trail go pass picnic tables and follow main path. This is Smiley path (Lat:41.71417 Lon:-74.3839) Trail Guides for Shawangunk Loop, NY: Shawangunk Trails map by NY-NJ trail conference () Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Ranger Contact: DEC Region 3 914-256-3083 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Shawn Viggiano, who has posted 44 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Larry on 6/10/2007 I hiked on June 8, 2007. AT AROUND 1600 FEET, on Smiley trail, was a RATTLESNAKE on the Smiley trail. Almost stepped on him and I have never leapt so far in my life. Be careful! Am a big fan of all of Shawn's recommended hikes. The markings on the Aqua trail are simply superb. Great stone markings also. Nice rample through the blueberries. Recommend this walk. Lower Smiley has lots of runoff rocks, but passable. Just watch for Rattlesnakes! 
Reviewed by Eric M on 1/3/2007 As of mid 2006, the "Historic Blue Trail" between High Point and Napanoch Point at Smiley Carriageway has been completely refurbished by the NYNJTC. The blazes are now Aqua colored like the Long Path. This is a great hike on the Shawangunk Ridge, one you are sure to enjoy. 
Reviewed by RF on 5/29/2005 trail markers become scarce around the time you think you've gone a long way, and eventually (for us anyway) disappear. compass was helpful. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: New York Hiking, New York Trails, New York Hikes, Ulster County Hiking, Ulster County Trails, Ulster County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||