Hike and Swim at Shepard Lake! (swim or just sit pretty by the water)

Please read all information below.

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(pic from last hike)

We had so much fun on our last hike, I just had to schedule another one right away. Since I hate the gym, I decided these hikes will serve as my sole source of exercise. Obviously that doesn't make sense, but I feel compelled to put it to the test.

Big ups to Robyn and her kick-ass navigation skills. If it weren't for her, we'd still be circling around a small lake. Lol.

Details

Time : 3.5 hours (doesn't account for the numerous breaks, lunch, swimming, and possibly getting lost, lol) - expect to be out the whole day

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 5.5 miles - not as long as you'd think. Trust me :)

Route Type: Circuit

Features: Views, Cliffs, Swimming, Historic feature

We will be able to swim in this gorgeous lake shown below (looks more like a mini beach.) We'll be hiking to this area, so admission is free!

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Time:

We will be meeting at Port Authority Bus Terminal (Near the NJ Transit ticket booth) at 9:10am. We'll then take the 197 towards 197 Warwick Via Willowbrook. It is a 1.5 hr bus ride. Please arrive at the station at precisely 9:10am. Trust me, the bus will leave without you if you're late. Not even my great sweet talking skills can hold it up :) Since NYC does construction on the tracks on weekends, you have to leave your apartment early in order to make it to Port Authority on time.

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Fees:

Port Authority round trip ticket is $25.50. Short 5 min cab ride: $4 .50 round trip

What to wear:

• Lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing (3Ls)

• CROSS TRAINER - with NEW soles/ TRAIL RUNNING SHOES or hiking boots. If wearing sneakers, please make sure they are sturdy with good traction.

• Bathing suit

• Sunglasses - optional

• A hat

What to bring:

• BACKPACK with at least 2 liters of water per person,
lunch, snacks, and drinks for 4 hours on the trail. You MUST bring a substantial lunch. The hikes are long so proper nutrition and hydration is vital.

• Food- e.g. sandwich/ fruits/nuts/ pita/hummus/pretzels etc.

• Toilet paper

• Bug spray (either bring or wear before hike)

• Sunscreen (either bring or wear before hike)

• Camera - optional

• You should bring breakfast for the 1.5 hr train ride up. If not, you should eat a GOOD breakfast at home before you leave.

If you have any questions at all, please, please TEXT! Don't be Shy. I Love questions- bring em on :)

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