Pine Swamp Mine

Embark on the Pine Swamp Loop for an easy hiking experience through Harriman State Park. This 3.2-mile (5.2 km) route guides you through diverse landscapes, from open woodlands to hilly blueberry patches and mixed forests. You will encounter rocky sections and uneven surfaces, along with several stream crossings that add to the natural feel of the journey. The trail offers serene views of Lake Skanatati and Lake Kanawauke, particularly as you ascend Pine Swamp Mountain. With an elevation gain of 257 feet (78 metres), you can complete this hike in about 1 hour and 25 minutes, making it a pleasant outing for most. Keep an eye out for the unique Pine Swamp itself, a habitat for pitcher plants and beavers.

To begin your hike, head to the Lake Skanatati parking area, which typically serves as the trailhead for the Pine Swamp Loop. It is important to note that this parking lot can fill up quickly, especially during weekends, so arriving early is advisable. The route utilizes a combination of blazed paths, including the Long Path marked with turquoise, the Dunning Trail with yellow markers, and the Arden-Surebridge Trail with red triangles. Always pay attention to the trail markers to stay on course throughout your adventure.

The Pine Swamp Loop stands out in Harriman State Park for its ecological diversity and varied terrain within a relatively short distance. Beyond the scenic views from Pine Swamp Mountain, the trail offers a chance to observe unique features like the actual Pine Swamp, which supports specific plant life such as pitcher plants. This trail provides a great introduction to the park's natural beauty, combining accessible hiking with interesting ecological insights.

Hike this moderate 8.8-mile loop in Harriman State Park, featuring varied terrain and scenic views, taking about 4 hours.

Hike the moderate 5.8-mile Bald Rocks Shelter via Long Path loop in Harriman State Park, featuring lake views and panoramic mountain vistas.