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### ❄️ Winter Hike: Wanaque Reservoir, Van Slyke Castle & Ramapo Lake

This hike is suitable for hikers with limited or no winter hiking experience who are otherwise comfortable hiking 8 miles with ~1,000 feet of elevation gain, as well as experienced winter hikers looking to enjoy a cold day in the woods with great views, good company, and a chance to work off some holiday weight. Hike is 7.5 miles/1,000'.

### ⚠️ Important Winter Hiking Notes

If you are new to winter hiking, expect to move at least 25% slower and cover at least 25% less distance than you would in warmer weather. This catches even experienced hikers by surprise every winter.

Please contact the hike leader if you are unsure whether this hike is appropriate for you or if you’d like advice on clothing and gear (highly recommended). Winter hiking is very enjoyable but can have serious consequences if you are unprepared. That said, this is a great introduction to winter hiking:

  • Not expected to be excessively cold
  • Snowshoes not required
  • Warm indoor space available for the trailhead talk
  • Relatively easy terrain if traction is needed

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### 🥾 Traction Devices

At the time of posting, it is unknown whether traction devices will be required, recommended, or unnecessary. The leader will hike this route before Sunday and will update participants as soon as conditions are known.

Given recent snow, rain, warm temperatures, and subsequent freezing, it is likely traction devices will at least be recommended.

  • If traction devices are required and you do not have them, you will unfortunately be turned around for safety reasons.
  • If you do not own traction devices, Hillsound Trail Crampons are strongly recommended. They perform better than microspikes in a wide range of conditions.
  • If you plan to use traction devices other than trail crampons or microspikes, please contact the leader in advance for approval.

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### 🎒 Required & Recommended Gear

Please bring:

  • Headlamp (in case of emergencies or delays)
  • Extra socks + plastic baggies (in case feet get wet)
  • Extra layers of clothing

Strongly recommended:

  • Hand warmers (electric or chemical)
  • Hiking poles (if you think you might need them, you do)

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### 💪 Difficulty

Due to winter conditions, this hike will be at the upper end of Moderate, just short of Vigorous.
Rating: Approximately 2C+ / 3C- on the old AMC scale.

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### 🌄 Route & Highlights

We’ll start with a climb to a magnificent overlook of the Wanaque Reservoir, then meander through a valley to Van Slyke Castle, with views of New York City, Ramapo Lake, and more. We’ll continue on to Ramapo Lake before returning to the trailhead—and warm bathrooms.

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### 🚌 Transportation Notes

For those returning to Port Authority, you will most likely make the 4:00 PM bus, but this cannot be guaranteed. The next bus departs at 5:00 PM. If you miss the bus, there are warm places to wait, and the Beer Garden across the street serves both food and beer.

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### ♨️ Optional Post-Hike Bonus

As a unique opportunity, the hike leader lives in a 55+ community with a community hot tub. If you’re interested in joining the leader for a hot tub soak after the hike, please contact the leader directly.

### ⚠️Other important notes

Transportation information
Winter logistics of hike - please read
Directions from lake if you need to leave early
AMC Trip Listing

AMC Health Advisory: Covid and other respiratory illnesses are circulating in our communities. Do not participate in this hike if you, or someone who you have recently been in contact with, is either infected or symptomatic.

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