PRE-HOLIDAY PARTY HIKE-Mt. Beacon - via south side scramble ~6.2 mi.

** Not recommended as a "first time" hike. The first mile is a steady, and somewhat strenuous uphill that some hikers find very difficult. In addition, the approach to the tower from the south is steeper and is part rock scramble. Hikers should not overestimate his/her abilities.

The Hike:
We start hiking up the trail at 10:30am so please arrive earlier. This is a nice hike with an approach to the tower from the steeper south side. We'll also take a nice, unmarked woods trail for just over one mile. The pace will be a moderate but steady 2.2-2.3mph. There will be several brief stops at viewpoints. On a clear day, we should have great views of the Hudson River and some places further away such as Minnewaska, Mohonk and the Catskill Mtns. Hikers who choose to hike faster or slower than the main group should familiarize themselves with the route.

Here's the route:
- Take the red Casino Trail one mile to site of former casino/hotel site.
- Continue on red for about one-half mile.
- Turn right and head downhill on an old, unmarked woods trail.
- After 1+ miles of downhill, turn left onto the blue trail.
- At yellow, stay left and continue to white.
- Take white/yellow several hundred yards to where white turns sharply to the left.
- Stay on white up the steeper south side and continue to the fire tower.
- After a break at the tower, follow white down to red Casino Trail and turn left.
- Take red back to parking lot.

Distance: ~ 6.2 miles
Elevation gain: ~2,100'
Pace: a steady, moderate 2.2 - 2.3mph
Duration: approx 4 hours including brief stops at viewpoints
Difficulty: two steep uphill sections; rocky trails; s
Gear: appropriate footwear; sunscreen; water; snacks/lunch; poles may be helpful
Views: All directions

Map: NY/NJ Trail Conference map for East Hudson trails; Avenza phone app for Hudson Highlands Park trails; or similar maps or apps.

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HUDSON VALLEY HIKER LEGAL DISCLAIMER & WAIVER OF LIABILITY

You agree when you sign up for this group or any of the events that you have read and understand the below.

If you join us for a hike (or any other event), please understand that you are responsible for your own preparedness and well-being and will hold no one else liable in case of injury or mishap. You agree not to hold the Organizer, Assistant Organizers, or any other members responsible for any injuries, mishaps, or any other situation that may happen at a planned event. You are responsible to research the event, know the area, and bring the proper gear.

The Hudson Valley Hikers Club does not provide liability insurance for the protection of individuals who may participate in any of the events planned by the Organizer or Assistant Organizers.

This release extends and applies to, and also covers and includes, all unknown, unforeseen, unanticipated and unsuspected injuries, damages, loss and liability.

Your attendance on a hike signifies that you have read and accept the terms of this liability waiver. By signing up for this group or event you understand that you are attending all events AT YOUR OWN RISK. Organizers and Assistant

Organizers of this group are just that, we organize the events and hike together as friends. There are no leaders on these hikes, you are your own leader - This is YOUR hike