Hike to Verkeerderkill Falls
Pine Bush, New York
Details
Distance
7 miles
Elevation Gain
1128 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Nickolis Irby
Verkeerderkill Falls is a gorgeous 180 foot tall waterfall - the highest in the Shawangunks. Hiking to it, you will experience the region's unique flora, all while enjoying stunning vistas. It is easily accessible for those visiting from New York City.
Start at the Sam's Point parking lot. The parking fee is $10 per a car. There is no individual charge for each hiker, making this activity very affordable. Walk to the right of the office and take the fork that leads right on Loop Road. Take this uphill around one switchback. You will reach an area with beautiful views to the west. Just ahead on the trail, you can take a left turn to reach more of the cliffs if you prefer.
When you are ready, continue straight on the trail. You will steadily gain elevation while passing blueberry and huckleberry bushes. These are a delicious on-the-trail snack from mid-August to mid-September. In winter, the red-tinted branches of these bushes frame the trail with beautiful colors.
A half-mile ahead, you will reach a junction with a sign that reads "Ice Caves" and a trail that leads to the right. Take this right turn. A few hundred feet ahead, there will be a small foot trail leading to the left that says "Verkeerderkill Falls." Follow this trail for the 2 miles, using the green blazes on the trees to guide you. Here you will experience beautiful views of the Hudson Valley, pitch pine forests, decidious oak and birch forests, and more huckleberry/blueberry bushes.
The trail will cross over Verkeeerder Kill, the stream that feeds the waterfall. Cross over the stream and walk past the waterfall to reach a stunning vista of Verkeerderkill Falls. This is a perfect area to sit and enjoy lunch while taking in the view. Be sure to exercise caution when near the cliff edges.
When you are finished, head back the way you came. The cliffs you initially passed overlooking the parking lot are an excellent place to catch the sunset before heading back to your car.
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