More Information
Trailhead GPS: Coordinates N41.98009 W74.57523
Getting There: Exit State Route 17 at exit 96W and turn left on DeBruce Road. Exit State Route 17 at exit 96E and turn right at the end of the exit. Turn left at the end of the road and then take the next left onto DeBruce Rd. From the “caboose” drive 14.2 miles on DeBruce Road to Wild Meadow Road (Black Bear Road) on the left. On the right is Round Pond. Drive 3.2 miles to the end of the road where there is a snowplow turnaround. It is legal to park here although the occupants of adjacent camps sometimes disagree.
Difficulty: This hike is rated MODERATE despite its length because of the minimal elevation gain. There are usually some muddy and wet areas along the way especially near the end where there are swamps and marshes.
Trail Surface: The trail surface is generally dirt, grass and leaves. There are some rocky areas along the way and many areas with tree roots to negotiate. In some areas there are small streams.
Hike Description: The Neversink Hardenburgh Trail begins on a woods road that leads in to a hunting camp. Stay on the road as it passes through the hunting camp and continue on the trail on the other side. As you walk the first part of this route you will hear the waters of Fall Brook flowing roughly south on the east side of the trail. The trail can be very wet in places. Cross over a brook and head up a little gaining some elevation. The Fall Brook lean-to is about 1.7 miles into the hike. After passing the lean-to, a swampy area appears on the right of the trail which leads into a series of beaver ponds and beaver meadows. Once you have a clear view you will see Doubletop Mountain on the right in the background. This area is the headwaters of Fall Brook which runs south and the Beaverkill which runs north and west. The trail parallels the Beaverkill for a short distance and then ENDS at the edge of the stream. The trail here has been eroded where it meets the Beaverkill and crossing can be challenging even in drier weather. Linger for some time to take some pictures and dip a toe in one of the best trout streams in the United States. When you are done, turn around and retrace your route to the car.