Hike of the Week 10/17/2002

Description:

After obtaining a trail map from the visitor center, proceed ahead on the wide dirt road (which is the continuation of Hudson Avenue ). After about 200 feet, turn right on the Red Trail, which proceeds south. Soon, the trail bears left and begins to follow along a stream. Be alert for a trail junction at two large tulip trees, where the Purple Trail begins. Turn right and follow the Purple Trail across the stream on a foot bridge, then continue along the Purple Trail until it ends at a T-intersection with the Blue Trail (which comes in from an adjacent residential street). Turn left onto the Blue Trail. After crossing a brook, the Blue Trail ends at a T-intersection with the yellow-blazed Allison Trail . Turn right and follow the Allison Trail to a Y-intersection, where the right branch is the orange-blazed Haring Rock Trail. Bear right, and continue south on the Haring Rock Trail.

As you reach the southern boundary of the nature center, you'll notice a very large boulder to the left of the trail. This is the Haring Rock, after which the trail is named. Just beyond, you'll see a yellow/orange-blazed trail going off to the left. Turn right and follow this trail, known as the Seely Trail, as it proceeds southeast, parallel to East Clinton Avenue , which is visible through the trees on the right. After crossing the Green Brook, you'll reach a junction with the yellow-blazed Allison Trail , which leads to the left.

Turn left and follow the Allison Trail northward. As the trail approaches the Green Brook, it makes a slight detour to the left to cross the brook on a foot bridge. Just ahead, be sure to bear left at a fork, continuing along the yellow-blazed trail.

A short distance beyond, you'll reach the junction with the orange-blazed trail. Continue ahead on the yellow trail, now covering a short section of trail that you just hiked in the reverse direction. When you reach the junction with the Blue Trail, remain on the yellow trail, now once again proceeding along a section of trail that you have not covered previously on this hike. A short distance beyond, the yellow-blazed Allison Trail ends at the Main Trail, a wide dirt road.

Turn left and follow the Main Trail, passing the historic Lambier House, a private residence which dates back to the 1870s. Beyond the house, the road is blocked to vehicular traffic, but you should continue ahead, following the wide path. When you reach a junction with the White Trail, turn right and follow this trail around Pfister's Pond. Part of the trail over wet areas is built on boardwalk, and you will pass a wooden shelter along the way (camping is not permitted). At the next junction with the Main Trail, turn right and follow it back to the parking area, where the hike began.

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