This 9.6-mile section of the NOBO LASH started in New Jersey and completed in New York. As such, this officially completes the New Jersey portion of the Appalachian Trail. The hike began with sunny skies, temps in the upper 30’s, and a light breeze. Sunshine remained throughout the hike, and temps rising into the low 60’s.
Hiking this section of trail had some highlights. The first was being able to see the New York City skyline from the top of Prospect Rock (Elevation of 1,433 feet). Prospect Rock is the highest elevation on the AT in New York.
The second highlight, if one can call it that, was seeing a Timber Rattlesnake near the base of a rock face. Of course, seeing it came after hearing the rattle. Since the snake was within striking distance of where the AT path continued, it was wise to stay put until the snake moved on, which it did after a few minutes.
Hiking this section of trail came with its share of challenges – hiking up and down table rock, climbing up rungs on rock face to get to the top of a ridge, and using hand over hand actions to gingerly get down some very large rock.
Overall, this hike was a good introduction to what awaits for the rest of New York and beyond.
Be sure to visit the New York Gallery!