October 6, 2019.

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Breakneck Ridge has always been one of my favorite places to go to for a good hike. It’s just a pain because it’s a 2-hr drive from my place. Forcing myself to wake up early and go for the drive is always the hardest part. But once on the road and the strong coffee takes effect, the mood changes from “Why am I doing this?” to “Yes, another good day for an adventure!”

This is not an easy hike. But a very rewarding one. Scrambling is required in some sections going up the Breakneck Ridge Trail. I have created a good loop which covers a lot of the vantage points for scenic views. And it equates to a good workout as well 🙂

I strongly suggest having the Hudson Highlands State Park Trail Map (North) when doing this hike, so you can map your own adventure. The map is also available free on Avenza Maps.

Here’s a brief description of this good hiking loop.

1. Ascend BR (Breakneck Ridge), White blaze. This is the hardest part! But this hard part is rewarded with several view points!
2. Turn right and descend UC (Undercliff), Yellow blaze. Continue on UC and cross BK (Brook), Red blaze. UC will then ascend to 2 view points of Storm King and Breakneck!
3. Continue on UC and turn left on WB (Washburn), White blaze. This goes up initially until the summit/vantage point where, on a good day, there’s a good view of NYC!
4. WB (Washburn) will then descend and hit the NT (Notch), Blue blaze and NV (Nelsonville), Green blaze.
5. Follow NT (Notch), Blue blaze for a flat and relaxing section.
6. On the intersection with BK (Brook), Red blaze, NT turns right. Continue on NT.
7. NT then ascends where it intersects back and joins BR (Breakneck Ridge) trail.
   1. Option 1 = Turn right at BR/NT for longer hike and continue exploring.
   2. Option 2 = Turn left at BR/NT to finish this loop.
8. There is a good view in this intersection that is often missed. It gives a good view of Lake Surprise!
9. Following Option 2, BR/NT ascends to the junction of BR and BB (Breakneck Bypass), Red blaze.
10. Follow and descend BB (Breakneck Bypass).
11. BB intersects with WM (Wilkinson Memorial), Yellow blaze.
    1. Option 3 = Turn right and ascend WM to Sugarloaf Mtn view point!
       1. Turn back after Sugarloaf and follow Option 4 back to the parking lot.
    2. Option 4 = Turn left and descend WM to get back to the trailhead and parking lot.
12. Enjoy the now cold left over coffee back in your car!

Here are some pictures taken from today’s hike. Enjoy!

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