Ramapo Torne

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Spring · Views · Wildlife

This is a great intermediate/beginners hike at Harriman State Park. The loop is very hilly with a few scrambles here and there, but nothing too serious. There are fantastic views from Ramapo Torne and Torne view. On a clear day, you can see the Manhattan skyline which is over 30 miles away from Ramapo Torne!

The scrambles can get very icy during the winter; avoid unless you are very comfortable and geared for them.

This route is a really nice hike without the big crowds of Pine Meadow Lake. There are a few scrambles here and there but nothing too difficult. This route avoids the bigger scrambles by sticking to the Seven Hills Trail and makes for a great hike for beginner or intermediate hikers.

The trailhead is just steps away from the Reeves Meadow info center which has a small parking lot that fills up very fast in the warmer months. There is additional parking along the road and another lot a little further up Seven Lakes Drive.

From here, head out on the Pine Meadow Trail for a short ways to access the Reeve's Brook Trail. This is a nice little trail that makes for a good warm-up. There are still a good amount of hills to keep your blood flowing, but nothing that should wind you that much.

At the first junction, turn right onto the Seven Hills Trail. The trail will continue to climb all the way up to Ramapo Torne. The views are excellent on the way up, and it is worth all the effort. Of note for the beginner hikers: If getting to the top of the Torne was very strenuous for you, do not continue down the first scramble as it only gets harder from there. I'd suggest turning back the way you came.

Once you have caught your breath and enjoyed the view, simply retrace your steps back to the junction with the Seven Hills Trail. Follow the Seven Hills Trail back down to the Pine Meadow Trail where you'll turn right to return to the trailhead.

I came across a 5 ft Rat Snake high up in a tree! There are lots of blueberry patches, especially on top of the Torne. Saw quite a few hawks the last time I was out there.