County Kicks Off A New Season of Guided Walks

Come kick-off the guided walk season with two walks to choose from this Saturday, March 10^th.  Walks are led by experienced Rockland County Trail Guide Docents and provide an opportunity to explore the beautiful, natural environment that we have here in Rockland County. 

1- Walk in Sterling Forest State Park, Saturday, March 10^th 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Join Docent Frank Kemmer in Sterling Forest this Saturday to experience his moderate (2 sneaker) 3 mile walk that will feature a discussion about the benefits of an Early Succession Forest.  Wildlife found in the park (and their calls) will also be discussed.

This walk is considered a moderate walk due to its length (3 miles) and because there are some inclines as well as rocky and wet areas. Hiking boots are recommended. Bring binoculars and walking stick if desired.  One lovely viewpoint is on the walk.  Bring water, snack or a lunch.

Directions: Take NYS Thruway to exit 15A, make a left onto Route 17 North.  Go through the towns of Sloatsburg and Tuxedo.  Go about 200 yards past Red Apple Rest. Make a left onto Orange Turnpike, just past the Valero gas station. Take Orange Turnpike for about 2 miles, look for park sign and Indian Hill sign on the right. (If you pass Harriman Heights Road, condominiums, or a golf course on right, you have gone too far. Also, if you pass Arrow Park on the left you have gone too far) Make a right turn onto dirt road (yes you can drive on it), go about 200 yards to a parking lot.  Walkers meet in the lot of Indian Hill, off Orange Turnpike in Monroe.

2- Walk in Dater Mountain Park, Saturday, March 10th 9 a.m. – 12 noon. “Shoot the Breeze, Shoot the Budding Trees”- Photography Walk.

Join Docent Victor Castro as he leads a challenging, 3 mile hike through the park.  Bring your camera to capture some late winter nature photos. Kick-start your spring exercise routine, commune with nature and get some fresh air. You’ll be glad you did.

Hiking boots are a must on this trek as warmer weather brings with it mud and changeable trail conditions. Bringing water is also a must, and snacks to fuel you along the way are highly recommended.

 Directions: New York State Thruway to Route 87 heading north, get off at exit 15A, at the end of the exit make a left onto Route 17 (heading north). Drive through the town making a right at the light onto Seven Lakes Drive. Just after the overpass there will be a slight left onto Johnsontown Road. Follow the road until you reach the end. Walkers should meet at the end of Johnsontown Road in Sloatsburg, 10974.  There is a circular parking area there.

Due to spring-like weather related trail conditions, hiking boots are recommended for both walks. Wear light colored clothing and seasonally appropriate attire such as a jacket, hat, or gloves depending on the weather, and bring along binoculars, water, sunscreen, a snack, and walking sticks if desired.  All walks are rain or shine. As with any physical activity program, it is recommended you speak to your physician before starting.

Pre-registration for walks is not required. For more information about the trails visit www.rocklandsteps.org/walks.  For more information about the guided walks call 845-708-7307 or e-mail rcamericorps@co.rockland.ny.us. 

Walks are sponsored by the Rockland County Division of Environmental Resources, the Rockland County Youth Bureau’s AmeriCorps program and the Rockland County Department of Health’s Steps to a Healthier Rockland program.