Docents Unlock Secrets of Local Hiking Trails

Secrets of two of the Rockland County area's scenic landmarks will be unlocked for hikers and walkers this weekend.

Two guided park walks are set to take place Sunday, the first from 9 to 11 a.m. at Clausland Mountain in Orangetown and the second from 10 a.m. to noon at State Line Lookout, along Old Route 9W.

At Clausland Mountain, Rockland County Trail Guide Docent MaryBeth Foisy will lead a moderately difficult (2-sneaker) approximately 1 mile walk on a heavily wooded path with some rocky sections and mild gradients. Trail can be muddy after rain.

Directions: From Route 59 take Route 303 south, and turn left onto Spruce Street (County Route 28), which turns into Clausland Mountain Road. Make a right on Tweed Boulevard, then turn right on Nike Lane, and bear left at the fork. The park entrance is on the left. Walkers should meet in the parking lot. 

Dogs are allowed on this walk. There are no restroom facilities and the walk is not stroller-friendly.

At the State Line Lookout Docent Louise Parnell leads a 2-mile, 2-sneaker (moderate level) walk along Old Route 9W. This walk is mainly flat with a slight incline.

State Line Lookout is located off the Palisades Parkway North.

Directions: From Rockland County, take the Palisades Parkway South.  After exit 4 take the u-turn exit from the left lane. Walkers should meet in the parking lot.  Parking is free.

Participants should wear proper footwear (close-toed sturdy shoes such as walking shoes/boots or sneakers) and clothing (light-colored), and bring along sunscreen, binoculars, water and a snack, and walking sticks if desired. Hiking boots preferred.

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

For more information about upcoming walks, including directions, call 845-708-7307 or e-mail rcamericorps@co.rockland.ny.us.  For more information about the trails visit www.rocklandsteps.org.