Harriman State Park
Orange Co.,
New York
Hiking Trails:
Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail: Red blaze
Tuxedo-Mt. Ivy Trail: Red blaze
Blue Disc Trail: Blue blaze
Total Time: 2:15
Estimated Distance: 4.2 Miles
Pros: Cool formations and nice views
Cons: None
Hike Type: Lollipop Loop
Level of Difficulty: Difficult
Google Maps of Parking:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/TP8za439RDLqwM3L7
Hiking Partner:
Yehudah Koblick
I've been to Claudius Smith Den many times but hadn't extended the hike to Black Ash Mountain, which is also very scenic with good views and a nice climb. We parked at the Ramapo River fishing access and walked along the road, under the Thruway, and then up the mountain from the Ramapo-Dunderberg Trailhead. We climbed up to the Tuxedo view, and then continued to Claudius Smith Den. On the top of the mountain we saw the Jennings Creek Fire near Greenwood Lake in the distance making a large plume of smoke.
We continued along the Blue Disc Trail on Black Ash Mountain and then headed down the mountain. The swamp below was all dry due to the drought conditions. We then took the Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail along the side of the mountain, past the Black Ash Mine, and then back to the trailhead and back to our car.
 |
| Map of the Route |
 |
| View of Tuxedo at Smith Rock. Note the smoke in the distance. |
 |
| View at the Gas Line |
 |
| Claudius Smith Den Rock Formation |
 |
| Claudius Smith Den View, and Jennings Creek Fire |
 |
| Zoomed into the Fire |
 |
| Black Ash Mountain |
 |
| Black Ash Mine |
