This 12.8-mile section of the NOBO LASH spans between Unionville Rd and NJ Route 94. As with the previous day, the hike started with temps in the mid-30’s, sunny skies, and a moderate breeze.
This section of trail has one shelter: Pochuck Shelter. The shelter was in good shape, and even had mirrors attached on the outside walls, which is the first time seeing something like this. As with the previous shelters, this one has a moldering privy and a bear box.
This section of trail had only one view from the ridge, overlooking the Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge. The AT aligns with the Liberty loop Trail within the refuge.
No hikers were encountered for most of the hike. Towards the end of the hike, many people were encountered on the Pochuck Boardwalk (walkers, runners, and no hikers). Despite the ‘crowds’, walking the boardwalk through a marshy area, and crossing the Pochuck Creek on a footbridge was very enjoyable.
Throughout the hike, there were far fewer rocks to contend with, making it an enjoyable woods walk. It was nice to walk puncheons throughout several swampy areas, see stone walls in the woods, observe interesting wildflowers, hear the songs of many different birds, and listen to soothing sounds of streams along this journey.
This was a banner day for a hike along the AT in New Jersey.
Be sure to visit the New Jersey Gallery!