Ramapo Lake with "Castle"

Hi everyone, and welcome!
Sometimes the best way to reset is to just step outside—and that’s what today is all about. We’re here to enjoy nature and take a break from the everyday buzz.

A quick note to help us all get the most out of this experience, please keep the vibe light and present. This hike is a chance to step away from the world and be in nature. We are stepping into a beautiful landscape and away from life's woes, work talk, personal struggles, or anything heavy. Think of it as a little retreat for your senses. We’re here to be curious, to notice the world around us, and to enjoy the sights and sounds. So let’s take a breath, look around, listen—to the trees, the birds, the breeze—and let nature do the talking.

Also, just a gentle reminder: please leave pets at home for this one. We want to keep things calm and easy for everyone in the group.

Ready? Let’s see what we can see! (I drive a yellow jeep and we can all meet there)

Location: Ramapo Lake Trailhead, 67 Skyline Dr, Oakland, NJ

Details
Hike start time is 8:00 so plan to get there at lease 15 minutes early since we start on time. If your plans change, please update your RSVP as a courtesy to other hikers.

Description
Starting in the parking lot, we'll hike a rocky trail up to the lake, then onto the remnants of an old "castle".
Distance: ~3-5 mile length
787ft Elevation gain
Pace: moderate with short breaks
Duration: 3 hours

Please have good hiking shoes, water, snacks, tick off and dress in layers for the season.

Meetup Rules:
This is a social event and not a guided hike. As such you are responsible for understanding and following all laws within the park. You accept responsibility for the safety of yourself and any friends you invite from outside the group. Attending this event signifies you understand the physical challenges and agree that you are physically capable and that you will be responsible for your own safety.

DISCLAIMER:
If you join us for this hike, please understand that you are responsible for your own (and your guests) preparedness and well-being and will hold no one else liable in case of injury or mishap. There is no trained Leader; this posting is a suggestion for a group outing of independent adults organized by a Host. You agree not to hold the Host, Event Organizer, Assistant Organizers, or any other members responsible for any injury, mishap or any other situation that may happen at this hike, or on your way to or from the event. We like to keep together on the trail, but you are responsible for your own well-being if you run ahead or fall behind or otherwise become detached from the group. Your attendance to this hike signifies that you have read and accepted the terms of this liability waiver.