Ramapo Mountain/6+ Miles

Happy New Year Hikers. The first hike of the year will be a moderate lollipop hike to the Van Slyke Castle ruins in Ramapo State Forest. The hike will feature a series of moderate climbs ending with a short relatively steep climb to the ruins. The return will be an easy walk along Ramapo Lake. Total distance will be between 6.5 and 7.5 miles and will depend on the hiking conditions that day.

We will meet at Back Beach Park which has a large lot, so parking should not be an issue. The bathrooms at this location will probably not be open but here a there are a few places nearby (Burger King, Stop and Shop, Dunkin) where you could stop before you arrive.

Bring plenty of water and snacks, and appropriate seasonal items (sun- and insect-protection in summer, and crampons in winter). Day-of-hike-only phone: 201-470-9317 (Paul V.).
**Note** We hike at a moderate pace, and never leave anyone behind. Our hikes are not suitable for fast hikers who like to forge ahead of the group.
**To join our hikes, you must enable Meetup messaging with organizers (see "New to hiking" link below), and must post a profile image that can be used to recognize you. If you do not, you may be removed from Going list.
**By signing up for this event you are acknowledging that you have read and accepted the posted NJO legal disclaimer: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/emigr7kcfcjw2g3tq4kib/NJO-Legal-Disclaimer.docx?rlkey=3e3i9wpx3t28m0f4st018wloa&dl=0

**NJO policies to discourage "repeat no-shows", "repeat late-cancels" (canceling <48 hours before hike), or "Frivolous RSVPs". For details, see: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/2gihwj37j7ltjvfyywgle/NJO-Policies.docx?rlkey=khddp9ns3ioxswkopgyzixeds&dl=0
This is your only notice - if you find yourself removed from the Going or Waiting List, refer to document above. You may message hike leader to reinstate you.