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

Sunday, March 21, 2021

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.