Kings Park Asylum Ruins & Sound Bluffs Traverse

• Read Before Signing Up: Please read the entire description carefully before registering.
• Terrain & Fitness: This 10-12 mile exploratory trek links Nissequogue River and Sunken Meadow State Parks via historic grounds and coastal bluffs, featuring significant climbing, sidewalk-free road sections, and rugged terrain requiring steady footing—with no mid-route dropouts, it is strictly unsuitable for slow or weak walkers.
• Sturdy hiking boots and insect repellent are strongly recommended for this trek. You may also bring trekking poles based on your personal preference.
• Meeting Point: Kings Park Station platform, Just wait on the platform after you get off the train.
• Transportation: Take either the 8:36 AM train from Penn Station (transfer at Huntington) or the 8:25 AM train from Grand Central (transfer at Jamaica and Huntington), arriving at Kings Park at 10:10 AM.
• Distance: Approximately 11–12 miles Loop walk
  ** Suggest to bring: Water, snacks, lunch and insect repellent

Historical Perspective: "Then and Now"

• The Past: Established in 1885, the Kings Park Psychiatric Center was once a self-sufficient "city within a city," housing nearly 10,000 patients at its peak in the 1950s. Its massive footprint included its own power plant, fire department, and railroad spur—the very tracks and service roads we will be navigating.
• The Present: Since its closure in 1996, the grounds have transitioned into a hauntingly beautiful state park. Nature is slowly reclaiming the historic masonry and grand institutional structures, creating a unique landscape for urban exploration and terrain reading.

Note: Expect variable terrain (pavement, sand, meadows) and wind exposure along the Long Island Sound. Bring plenty of water and prepare for a route-adjusting day of exploration.

Sam Chen 732.447.3275
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Reminders

1. Read Before Signing Up: This hike involves detailed logistics and coordination. For safety and smooth operation, please read the entire hike description carefully. You will be prompted with a question during RSVP—please read it attentively and answer correctly to join.
2. Drop Early: If your plans change, cancel immediately. Do not wait until the day before or the morning of the hike.
3. Waitlist Policy: Priority is given to reliable hikers. Everyone remains on the waitlist until responses are confirmed. You may be passed over if you skip the sign-up questions, have a history of late cancellations and no-shows, or fail to demonstrate a commitment to group punctuality, maintaining the shared pace, and cooperating with team coordination.
4. Stay Updated: Weather and train/bus schedules are subject to unexpected changes. Please check the comments and pinned updates the night before and the morning of the hike.