Harriman Hiker: Harriman State Park and Beyond: Popolopen Torne First Day of Spring Hike

Popolopen Torne First Day of Spring Hike
Bear Mountain State Park,
Orange Co.,
New York

Hiking Trails:
Timp-Torne Trail: Blue blaze

Total Time: 0:55
Estimated Distance: 1.0 mile

Pros: Great climb and excellent views
Cons: Busy area and parking can be a challenge
Hike Type: Loop
Level of Difficulty: Difficult but short

Map of Route:
https://goo.gl/maps/GfdM4aJemx6HY5WE6

I had been to Popolopen Gorge a few weeks prior in the winter snow. Now with all the snow melted and a very warm and pleasant first day of spring, I decided to come back to this favorite hike of mine. I was short on time, and this hike is great for a short and sweet hike, with the total hike time being less than an hour. I also had lost a glove on my previous hike in the area and figured I'd come back to see if perhaps it was still there. Although it started out a bit chilly in the morning, there was no need for any jacket or coat by the time I started hiking, and I was able to hike comfortably in short sleeves.

I parked in the roadside parking lot on Mine Road, and took the Timp Torne Trail up at it's eastern side. I then cut across the unmarked connector path to the western flank of the trail, which is a better route up. I climbed up the rocky area to the summit, took some good pictures, and then continued along the north flank and started the descent. I continued along the loop which I took back to my car.