Hiking In and Around

Hiking In and Around
Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco
photograph by Jason Rich
compiled and edited by:
Northern NJ Council, BSA
Conservation Committee
Steve Kallesser, chairman
Last revised: 3/28/2016
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Outpost leanto trail -- 1.3 miles……
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.............1
Fairview Lake trail -- 4.0 miles….................................................................................................................................
.............2
Copperhead Spring trail -- 1.9 miles………..
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.............3
"A walk on the Appalachian Trail" -- 2.0 miles……….
....................................................................................................
.............4
Catfish Mtn. Fire Tower trail -- 4.7 to 5 miles…………
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.............5
Long Pine Pond trail -- 6.8 miles……………
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.............6
Millbrook Village trail -- 5.2 miles…………
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.............7
Van Campen's Glen trail -- 6.0 miles……….
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.............8
Catfish Pond trail -- 7.9 miles……
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.............9
"The BIG Hike" -- 9.1 to 10 miles………….
.....................................................................................................................
...........11
Additional notes and acknowledgements……
.....................................................................................................................
...........13
Outpost Leanto trail (yellow, orange)
Scouts may follow this easy and short path around the swamp, passing through what was an old farm
(1774) where the outpost campsite was many years ago. The trail passes near to the foot of the mountain,
skirts the swamp and the headwaters of the Jacksonburg Creek, then returns to camp after just 1 ¼ miles.
Narrative: The trail begins along the road to the range just below the Blackfoot campsite (0.0 miles).
After passing by the campsite, the trail widens. Pass by where the red trail splits off to your left (0.2 miles)
– stay on the yellow trail going straight. The trail gradually narrows, and rocks placed on either side of the
trail show where past generations of Scouts cared for this trail. The trail gets somewhat rocky, then curves
slightly uphill, then downhill. After a short wet area and several short boardwalks, the trail enters a flat
area and stonerows become apparent. The trail curves uphill to the remnants of the old outpost leanto at 0.5
miles. This is a nice area for a break or picnic, and the Scouts can explore uphill to the foot of the
mountain and along the old stonerows to the edge of the swamp. Leaving this area, the trail descends
slightly downhill, follows a stonerow briefly, then crosses the stream on rocks at 0.6 miles. The trail
ascends from the stream, passes a fenced-in reforestation area, and reaches a 4-way trail intersection at 0.8
miles. Follow the orange trail (right). The orange trail is a flat, sometimes rocky trail that leads to Parsons
Lodge at 1.3 miles.
Trail length: 1.3 miles
Elevation gain: minimal
Trail ranking: Scout
Boardwalks just before the old outpost leanto
1
Fairview Lake trail (orange)
Scouts may follow this nearly level trail from Parsons Lodge through the forest surrounding No-Be-Bo-Sco,
to the former Camp Towadena, and the old waterfront on Fairview Lake. A favorite for Webelos and
younger troops and patrols, the trail is not challenging, and offers a quality picnic opportunity on the shore
of Fairview Lake. The old Scout Camp Towadena is now owned by the Township of Stillwater as a Green
Acres property, so swimming may take place only in accordance with the 8-Point Safe Swim Defense Plan.
Narrative: The trail begins at Parsons Lodge (0.0 miles), following the orange trail blazes. The trail
travels in back of Apache and Kennebec campsites. The swamp will be on your left hand side. Eventually,
you will reach a 4-way trail intersection at 0.5 miles. Continue straight, following the orange trail. The
path climbs very slightly, then follows on the level along a flat, wide path. After a while, you may pass
trees that have an orange ring of paint around them and a No Trespassing sign or two. This is the camp
boundary – follow the orange trail blazes, not the orange rings. You are now entering lands of the
Township of Stillwater (formerly Camp Towadena, North Hudson Council). Eventually, the trail widens at
the end of an old road, and stonerows are present. The orange trail continues on the old road. When the
road meets a brook, follow the road upstream briefly and cross on the bridge (1.5 miles). The trail
continues on the road, eventually turning right at the old log office onto another old road that descends the
hill towards Fairview Lake (1.7 miles). The end of the trail is at the lakeside (2.0 miles). This small
clearing was the waterfront area of the old camp. The mossy spot is a great place for a picnic, but
remember that you are an ambassador for Scouting and for the camp – leave this spot better than you found
it.
On the return hike, follow the same route back to camp. When you reach the 4-way intersection, the
yellow trail to the left is a shortcut back to the A-field, and the yellow trail to the right will take you into
Blackfoot campsite.
Total distance: 4.0 miles round-trip
Elevation gain: ~200 feet, mostly during hike from Fairview Lake to old log office
Trail ranking: Tenderfoot
2
Copperhead Spring trail (blue, white, blue-and-white)
Scouts will enjoy the challenge of climbing the mountain and the grand view from the top of the cable cut.
This route also passes by a beaver pond near the top of the mountain (the source of which is called
Copperhead Spring). While the climb contains many boulders, the descent is very easy, offering a
wonderful circuit.
Narrative: The trail begins at Sand Pond Lodge (0.0 miles), where the blue trail follows the road through
a small clearing and then into the woods. After 0.2 miles, the trail forks and the blue trail goes right,
ascending. Shortly after the ascent begins, you may notice trees with orange rings of paint. This is the
camp boundary. You are now entering the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The trail levels
out, and then reaches a trail junction with the blue-and-white trail at 0.4 miles. Follow the blue trail (right)
where you enter an area of large boulders. The trail follows an old cable up the path of least resistance as
the trail clambers up the big rocks and up the face of the mountain. About halfway up the mountain, a large
boulderfield to the left offers good views to the southwest. As the trail continues climbing, the trail exits
the woods and enters the cleared area for the powerlines. Shortly afterwards is a short scramble to the top
of the mountain at 0.6 miles. The top of the mountain is marked by the high tension tower, and is a great
place for a break or picnic. The best views are back toward the camp, where more than half of Sand Pond
is visible. In the opposite direction, the pond at the Watergate Recreation Area is visible. A path off the
north side of the right-of-way connects you to the Appalachian Trail (white trail markers). Make a left onto
the Appalachian Trail, following a new trail route down the hill and then straight across the right-of-way.
The trail curves left into the woods, and follows an old road between two knolls. Continuing to the left, the
trail approaches the beaver dam pond at Copperhead Spring. Following the edge of the pond, you reach a
trail junction with the blue-and-white trail to the left, at 1.0 miles. (If you reach a wooden bridge, you have
gone a few feet too far.) The blue-and-white trail gently descends the mountain, at times between
enormous boulders. After passing a huge flat rock (another great place for a rest or picnic at 1.3 miles), the
trail levels out, and follows the foot of the mountain back to the junction with the blue trail at 1.5 miles.
Turn right onto the blue trail and follow back to Sand Pond Lodge (1.9 miles).
Total distance: 1.9 miles
Elevation gain: 460 feet
Trail rank: Second Class
View from top of cable cut
Copperhead spring
3
A walk on the Appalachian Trail (blue, white, red, yellow)
Scouts will enjoy walking the same path that thousands of people have walked from Georgia to Maine
(even if just for a brief distance). Who knows, your troop may bump into a true “through-hiker!” This
trail goes up the cable cut to the great view at the top of the mountain, then across the ridge, with one or
two other lookouts, then descends back into camp on some mildly challenging terrain.
Narrative: The trail begins at Sand Pond Lodge (0.0 miles), where the blue trail follows the road through
a small clearing and then into the woods. After 0.2 miles, the trail forks and the blue trail goes right,
ascending. Shortly after the ascent begins, you may notice trees with orange rings of paint. This is the
camp boundary. You are now entering the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The trail levels
out, and then reaches a trail junction with the blue-and-white trail at 0.4 miles. Follow the blue trail (right)
where you enter an area of large boulders. The trail follows an old cable up the path of least resistance as
the trail clambers up the big rocks and up the face of the mountain. About halfway up the mountain, a large
boulderfield to the left offers good views to the southwest. As the trail continues climbing, the trail exits
the woods and enters the cleared area for the powerlines. Shortly afterwards is a short scramble to the top
of the mountain at 0.6 miles. The top of the mountain is marked by the high tension tower, and is a great
place for a break or picnic. The best views are back toward the camp, where more than half of Sand Pond
is visible. In the opposite direction, the pond at the Watergate Recreation Area is visible. A path off the
north side of the right-of-way connects you to the Appalachian Trail (white trail markers). Follow the
Appalachian Trail north into the woods on white blazes on exposed rock and trees. At 1.1 miles, you will
descend a small rock ledge with a double white blaze painted on it. Behind you to the right is a small
clearing with a small fire ring. Immediately below is a great lookout over the camp. At 1.5 miles, you will
reach an intersection with the red trail. Turn right onto the red trail, which soon begins its descent down
the mountain. The loose gravel and rock outcrops will slow the hike, but is easily navigated by Boy Scouts
who take their time. The trail reaches the foot of the mountain. At the foot of the mountain, you may see
trees ringed with orange paint. This is the camp boundary. Welcome home. The trail’s descent becomes
slighter, and you reach the intersection with the yellow trail at 1.8 miles. Turn right onto the yellow trail to
enter the camp near the Blackfoot campsite. Stay on the marked trail to avoid the Blackfoot campsite. For
troops interested in a slightly longer hike, you may turn left onto the yellow trail and proceed to the old
outpost leanto (see description for the Outpost leanto trail above).
Total distance: 2.0 miles
Elevation gain: 480 feet
Trail ranking: Second Class
View from lookout on Appalachian Trail above camp
4
Catfish Mountain Fire Tower trail (blue, white, blue-and-white)
Singularly the best view in easy hiking distance to the camp, the fire tower has been a popular hiking
destination for Scouts since the 1930’s. The trail heads up the cable cut, past Copperhead Spring, then
crosses Millbrook-Blairstown Road and continues on the Appalachian Trail until reaching the fire tower.
Will you meet a member of the NJ Forest Fire Service at the top? The return into camp is much easier,
following a gradual descent down the mountain.
Narrative: The trail begins at Sand Pond Lodge (0.0 miles), where the blue trail follows the road through
a small clearing and then into the woods. At 0.2 miles, the trail forks and the blue trail goes right,
ascending. Shortly after the ascent begins, you may notice trees with orange rings of paint. This is the
camp boundary. You are now entering the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The trail levels
out, and then reaches a trail junction with the blue-and-white trail at 0.4 miles. Follow the blue trail (right)
where you enter an area of large boulders. The trail follows an old cable up the path of least resistance as
the trail clambers up the big rocks and up the face of the mountain. About halfway up the mountain, a large
boulderfield to the left offers good views to the southwest. As the trail continues climbing, the trail exits
the woods and enters the cleared area for the powerlines. Shortly afterwards is a short scramble to the top
of the mountain at 0.6 miles. The top of the mountain is marked by the high tension tower, and is a great
place for a break (but don’t stay too long- the fire tower awaits). The best views are back toward the camp,
where more than half of Sand Pond is visible. In the opposite direction, the pond at the Watergate
Recreation Area is visible. A path off the north side of the right-of-way connects you to the Appalachian
Trail (white trail markers). Make a left onto the Appalachian Trail, following a new trail route down the
hill and then straight across the right-of-way. The trail curves left into the woods, and follows an old road
between two knolls. Continuing to the left, the trail approaches the beaver dam pond at Copperhead
Spring. Following the edge of the pond, you reach a trail junction with the blue-and-white trail to the left,
at 1.0 miles. Continue on the Appalachian Trail to the right, crossing a wooden bridge. The trail continues
until reaching Millbrook-Blairstown Road at 1.4 miles. Turn left onto this paved road and follow for a
short stretch until the Appalachian Trail turns right and enters the woods on a gravel road at a gate. This
gravel road and the Appalachian Trail both lead to the fire tower, however, the Appalachian Trail takes a
more direct route. Follow the white trail markers to the fire tower at 2.4 miles. The fire tower is staffed
only during fire season (autumn and early spring) or during other times when risk of fire is high. At all
other times the cab at the top of the tower is locked. Views can be had at the base of the tower, with
slightly better views from the steps leading to the top of the tower. The clearing at the base of the tower is
a great place for a break or a picnic. The views to the east showcase the farms and forests of Warren
County, while views to the west show off the great forests of Pennsylvania. Remember that you are an
ambassador of Scouting and of camp, and leave this site better than
how you found it. The return to camp follows the same route back
to Copperhead Spring. After crossing the wooden bridge, you reach
the intersection with the blue-and-white trail at 3.8 miles. Go
straight onto the blue-and-white trail. The blue-and-white trail
gently descends the mountain, at times between enormous boulders.
After passing a huge flat rock (another great place for a rest or
picnic, at 4.1 miles), the trail levels out, and follows the foot of the
mountain back to the junction with the blue trail, at 4.3 miles. Turn
right onto the blue trail and follow back to Sand Pond Lodge.
Total distance: 4.7 miles
(NOTE: If the group starts and ends at Van Dusen Lodge, this will
qualify as a 5 mile hike)
Elevation gain: 660 feet
Trail ranking: First Class
View from
Catfish Mtn.
Fire Tower
5
Long Pine Pond trail
(yellow, red, white, paved camp entrance road, white, red, yellow)
Scouts will enjoy this moderate hike to a crystal clear lake perched high on the mountain. They will also
enjoy the several lookouts from the Appalachian trail along the way. The steep ascent up the mountain is
followed by an almost flat hike along the top of the ridge, all the way out to Camp Ken-Etiwa-Pec, a former
Boy Scout camp now owned by the federal government.
Narrative: The yellow trail begins along the road to the range just below the Blackfoot campsite (0.0
miles). After passing by the campsite, the trail widens. Turn left when you reach the junction with the red
trail at 0.2 miles. Follow the red trail uphill, first moderately. As you reach the foot of the mountain, you
may see trees ringed with orange paint. You are now entering the Delaware Water Gap National
Recreation Area. The trail then climbs steeply. Care will be needed on any loose gravel or rocks, but this
section of trail is easily traversed by almost any Boy Scout. At the top of the mountain (0.5 miles), you
will reach a junction with the Appalachian Trail (white). Follow the white trail to the right. The trail is
reasonably flat, then after a while widens into an old road, at 1.0 miles. The Appalachian Trail follows this
road straight, passing by several good lookouts to the right. One of these lookouts will provide a nice place
for a break or a picnic. Fairview Lake should be visible below, as should be the many farms and forests of
Sussex County. The trail continues until it reaches Flatbrookville-Stillwater Road at a gate near a weather
station, at 2.6 miles. Across this paved road is the entrance to Camp Ken-Etiwa-Pec. Follow the paved
road into the camp, and check in at the camp office (3.4 miles). If your troop has arranged for swimming,
you will enjoy the eerily clear lake water. Return to camp follows the same path in the opposite direction.
Total distance: 6.8 miles
Elevation gain: 740 feet
Trail ranking: Star
6
The Millbrook Village trail (yellow, red, unmarked path, old dirt roads)
NOTE: This route has about 1,000 feet of unmarked trail. However, by following the directions below, the
section is easily navigable.
History-minded troops will enjoy a visit to Millbrook Village, a hamlet whose heyday was in the 1800’s.
For a complete history and description of the village, find a pamphlet at the welcome station near the
parking lot. All Scouts will enjoy the hike over the mountain, and the brooks and terrain encountered
between the Appalachian Trail and the village. The trail ascends the mountain, then descends the other
side at a gentler pace. The challenge of this trail is in climbing the mountain, then climbing it again on the
return trip.
Narrative: The yellow trail begins along the road to the range just below the Blackfoot campsite (0.0
miles). After passing by the campsite, the trail widens. Turn left when you reach the junction with the red
trail at 0.2 miles. Follow the red trail uphill, first moderately. As you reach the foot of the mountain, you
may see trees ringed with orange paint. You are now entering the Delaware Water Gap National
Recreation Area. The trail then climbs steeply. Care will be needed on any loose gravel or rocks, but this
section of trail is easily traversed by almost any Boy Scout. At the top of the mountain (0.5 miles), you
will reach a junction with the Appalachian Trail (white). Continue straight onto the red trail, which will
curve left and parallel the Appalachian Trail briefly before gently descending the mountain. (NOTE: This
section of the red trail is largely marked with older trail markers, most of which have faded to silver. Care
may be needed to locate the next trail marker from the current trail marker at various points along this
section, but should not be difficult.) The trail meets and turns left onto an old logging road at 0.9 miles.
The red trail follows the old logging road briefly until turning right at 1.0 miles. At 1.2 miles, the red trail
ends at a very large tulip poplar tree and joins several stonerows.
The path continues between two parallel stonerows that generally follow the same contour in a generally
northeast direction. The path approaches a stream in a narrow gully at 1.3 miles. At this point, there is a
small pile of rocks with the top rock spray-painted red. At the small pile of rocks, follow the stream
downhill to another pile of rocks with the top rock spray-painted red. At this pile of rocks, cross the stream
and continue downhill briefly before seeing another small pile of rocks with the top rock spray-painted red.
At this third pile of rocks, turn right and travel for a short distance to old road at 1.4 miles and another
small pile of rocks with the top rock spray-painted red. Near this point is an abandoned house that has
since collapsed. This, and other structures occasionally seen are what remains from when the federal
government condemned land in this area around 1970 or so. All structures between this point and
Millbrook Village should be considered unsafe and should not be entered or ventured near.
Follow the old dirt road downhill to a stream crossing at a collapsed bridge at 1.6 miles. In case of high
water, there is a safer crossing just upstream. Continue following the road downhill until it reaches Van
Campen’s Brook at 1.9 miles. Here, the bridge has been removed. In case of high water, there is a safer
crossing about 150 feet upstream. After crossing the brook, you reach a “T” intersection with a slightly
larger dirt road. Follow this new road to the left. (This road was known as the Columbia-Walpack
Turnpike, and leads from Donkey’s Corners to Millbrook.) This road follows Van Campen’s Brook into
Millbrook Village. Once in the village, you may find the parking area, restrooms (if open), and pamphlets
describing the buildings to your right at the intersection of Old Mine Road and Millbrook-Blairstown Road
(2.6 miles). The village is a good place for a break or a picnic. Remember that you are an ambassador for
Scouting and for the camp. Leave this place better than how you found it. After exploring the village,
troops may return following the same route in reverse. (NOTE: If this route is not desirable, troops can
also return via Millbrook-Blairstown Road to the Appalachian Trail to the blue-and-white trail to the blue
trail.)
Total distance: 5.2 miles
Elevation gain: 1,280 feet
Trail Ranking: Life
NOTE: This trail is not recommended during hunting season.
7
Van Campen’s Glen trail
(blue, white, paved road, abandoned road, yellow, abandoned road, paved road, white, blue-and-white,
blue)
Some of the most fantastic waterfalls in the state of New Jersey are located between the Delaware Water
Gap and High Point. This trail is the Scout’s opportunity to experience one or more. The trail ascends the
mountain via the cable cut, then descends following both active and abandoned roads to the glen. The glen
is a fantastic ravine where Van Campen’s Brook has carved an incredible scar into the landscape. There is
opportunity for exploring, and possibly swimming depending on posted signs. On the return, the trail
ascends the mountain again, but descends on a gradual path into camp.
Narrative: The trail begins at Sand Pond Lodge (0.0 miles), where the blue trail follows the road through
a small clearing and then into the woods. At 0.2 miles, the trail forks and the blue trail goes right,
ascending. Shortly after the ascent begins, you may notice trees with orange rings of paint. This is the
camp boundary. You are now entering the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The trail levels
out, and then reaches a trail junction with the blue-and-white trail at 0.4 miles. Follow the blue trail (right)
where you enter an area of large boulders. The trail follows an old cable up the path of least resistance as
the trail clambers up the big rocks and up the face of the mountain. About halfway up the mountain, a large
boulderfield to the left offers good views to the southwest. As the trail continues climbing, the trail exits
the woods and enters the cleared area for the powerlines. Shortly afterwards is a short scramble to the top
of the mountain at 0.6 miles. The top of the mountain is marked by the high tension tower, and is a great
place for a break (but don’t stay too long- the glen awaits). The best views are back toward the camp,
where more than half of Sand Pond is visible. In the opposite direction, the pond at the Watergate
Recreation Area is visible. A path off the north side of the right-of-way connects you to the Appalachian
Trail (white trail markers). Make a left onto the Appalachian Trail, following a new trail route down the
hill and then straight across the right-of-way. The trail curves left into the woods, and follows an old road
between two knolls. Continuing to the left, the trail approaches the beaver dam pond at Copperhead
Spring. Following the edge of the pond, you reach a trail junction with the blue-and-white trail to the left
(1.0 miles). Continue on the Appalachian Trail to the right, crossing a wooden bridge. The trail continues
until reaching Millbrook-Blairstown Road at 1.4 miles. Turn right
onto this paved road. Continue downhill until you see a gate on an
abandoned road that descends on your left (1.7 miles). If you reach
the cable cut, you have gone too far. Follow this abandoned road as
it continues to descend. Prior to reaching Van Campen’s Brook, a
yellow trail will leave the road to your left, at 2.8 miles. Turn left
onto the yellow trail. This trail passes to the edge of an old farm
field, under a hemlock forest, then leads to the waterfall known as
Upper Van Campen’s Glen (3.0 miles). This is a perfect place for a
picnic. The waterfall itself flushes a tremendous amount of water
through a narrow opening in the rock, falling into a small, deep
pool, and flowing over a smooth rock into a large pool of water
before continuing on. At all times, care must be taken as rocks in
this area are almost continuously wet and slippery from the spray of
the waterfall. Use common sense. For troops looking for a slightly
longer hike, follow the yellow trail downstream about 1,000 feet or
so to Lower Van Campen’s Glen, another picturesque waterfall.
Return to camp is made using the same route. However, the blueand-white trail (starting at Copperhead Spring) is recommended for
a more gradual descent of the mountain.
Total distance: 6.0 miles
Elevation gain: 1,210 feet
Trail ranking: Life
Upper Van Campen’s Glen in winter
8
Catfish Pond trail (blue, white, orange, unmarked road, orange, white, blue-and-white, blue)
This is a challenging hike with many worthwhile intermediate stops. The challenge of this hike is keeping
to a schedule, since Scouts will want to stop often to take pictures and enjoy the natural beauty. The trail
includes the cable cut, Copperhead Spring, Catfish Mountain Fire Tower, Catfish Pond, and Rattlesnake
Swamp (the trail doesn’t go through the swamp, it merely skirts the edge on dry ground).
Narrative: The trail begins at Sand Pond Lodge (0.0 miles), where the blue trail follows the road through
a small clearing and then into the woods. After 0.2 miles, the trail forks and the blue trail goes right,
ascending. Shortly after the ascent begins, you may notice trees with orange rings of paint. This is the
camp boundary. You are now entering the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The trail levels
out, and then reaches a trail junction with the blue-and-white trail at 0.4 miles. Follow the blue trail (right)
where you enter an area of large boulders. The trail follows an old cable up the path of least resistance as
the trail clambers up the big rocks and up the face of the mountain. About halfway up the mountain, a large
boulderfield to the left offers good views to the southwest. As the trail continues climbing, the trail exits
the woods and enters the cleared area for the powerlines. Shortly afterwards is a short scramble to the top
of the mountain at 0.6 miles. The top of the mountain is marked by the high tension tower, and is a great
place for a break (but don’t stay too long- the fire tower awaits). The best views are back toward the camp,
where more than half of Sand Pond is visible. In the opposite direction, the pond at the Watergate
Recreation Area is visible. A path off the north side of the right-of-way connects you to the Appalachian
Trail (white trail markers). Make a left onto the Appalachian Trail, following a new trail route down the
hill and then straight across the right-of-way. The trail curves left into the woods, and follows an old road
between two knolls. Continuing to the left, the trail approaches the beaver dam pond at Copperhead
Spring. Following the edge of the pond, you reach a trail junction with the blue-and-white trail to the left
(1.0 miles). Continue on the Appalachian Trail to the right, crossing a wooden bridge. The trail continues
until reaching Millbrook-Blairstown Road at 1.4 miles. Turn left onto this paved road and follow for a
short stretch until the Appalachian Trail turns right and enters the woods on a gravel road at a gate. This
gravel road and the Appalachian Trail both lead to the fire tower, however, the Appalachian Trail takes a
more direct route. Follow the white trail markers to the fire tower at 2.4 miles. The fire tower is staffed
only during fire season (autumn and early spring) or during other times when risk of fire is high. At all
other times the cab at the top of the tower is locked. Views can be had at the base of the tower, with
slightly better views from the steps leading to the top of the tower. The clearing at the base of the tower is
a great place for a break or a picnic. The views to the east showcase the farms and forests of Warren
County, while views to the west show off the great forests of Pennsylvania. Please remember that you are
an ambassador of Scouting and of the camp, so leave this site better than how you found it. Continue on
the Appalachian Trail along the top of the ridge until you reach a junction with an orange trail (3.4 miles).
Follow the orange trail to the right. The orange trail descends the mountain until it reaches a grassy old
road on the left at 3.7 miles. Follow
this unmarked road into Mohican
Outdoor Center. This was a Boy
Scout camp (Camp Mohican, Robert
Treat Council), now owned by the
federal government and leased to the
Appalachian Mountain Club. It is
infrequently used, but troops should
still visit the office (if open) to check
in. Catfish Pond is a picturesque lake
(reached at 4.0 miles). Swimmers
should adhere to the 8-point safe swim
defense. Upon departing Mohican
Outdoor Center, follow the same
unmarked path back to the orange trail
(4.3 miles). Turn left onto the orange
trail, and begin a gently descent to the
Catfish Pond in winter
9
stream that is the inlet to Catfish Pond. The orange trail continues and eventually enters and area with a
large amount of rhododendrons. At times, the rhododendrons will create a canopy over the trail. The trail
continues with Rattlesnake Swamp to your left. The orange trail ends at a dirt road (this is the same dirt
road which went to Catfish Mountain Fire Tower) at 6.0 miles. Turn left onto the dirt road. After a short
distance, the Appalachian Trail joins this dirt road. Follow both to a gate at the paved MillbrookBlairstown Road (6.6 miles). Turn left onto the paved road for a short distance and turn right where the
Appalachian Trail crosses the road.
Follow the Appalachian Trail to
Copperhead Spring. At the trail
junction with the blue-and-white
trail (7.0 miles), go straight. The
blue-and-white trail gently descends
the mountain, at times between
enormous boulders. After passing a
huge flat rock (another great place
for a rest or picnic at 7.3 miles), the
trail levels out, and follows the foot
of the mountain back to the junction
with the blue trail at 7.5 miles. Turn
right onto the blue trail and follow
back to Sand Pond Lodge (7.9
miles).
Rhododendrons along Rattlesnake Swamp trail
Total distance: 7.9 miles
Elevation gain: 820 feet
Trail ranking: Life
10
The BIG hike
(yellow, red, unmarked path, old roads, yellow, old road, paved road, white, blue-and-white, blue)
NOTE: This route has about 1,000 feet of unmarked trail. However, by following the directions below, the
section is easily navigable.
This aggressive hike involves climbing the mountain, hiking through Millbrook Village, through Watergate,
to the glen, and then returning to camp via Copperhead Spring. Time is the major constraint to this hike,
as Scouts will need to balance the need to stay on schedule with their desire to explore just a little more, or
stay a little longer at each location.
Narrative: The yellow trail begins along the road to the range just below the Blackfoot campsite (0.0
miles). After passing by the campsite, the trail widens. Turn left when you reach the junction with the red
trail at 0.2 miles. Follow the red trail uphill, first moderately. As you reach the foot of the mountain, you
may see trees ringed with orange paint. You are now entering the Delaware Water Gap National
Recreation Area. The trail then climbs steeply. Care will be needed on any loose gravel or rocks, but this
section of trail is easily traversed by almost any Boy Scout. At the top of the mountain (0.5 miles), you
will reach a junction with the Appalachian Trail (white). Continue straight onto the red trail, which will
curve left and parallel the Appalachian Trail briefly before gently descending the mountain. (NOTE: This
section of the red trail is largely marked with older trail markers, most of which have faded to silver. Care
may be needed to locate the next trail marker from the current trail marker at various points along this
section, but should not be difficult.) The trail meets and turns left onto an old road or ATV trail at 0.9
miles. The red trail follows the ATV road briefly until turning right at 1.0 miles. At 1.2 miles, the red trail
ends at a very large tulip poplar tree and joins several stonerows.
The path continues between two parallel stonerows that generally follow the same contour in a generally
northeast direction. The path approaches a stream in a narrow gully at 1.3 miles. At this point, there is a
small pile of rocks with the top rock spray-painted red. At the small pile of rocks, follow the stream
downhill to another pile of rocks with the top rock spray-painted red. At this pile of rocks, cross the stream
and continue downhill briefly before seeing another small pile of rocks with the top rock spray-painted red.
At this third pile of rocks, turn right and travel for a short distance to old road at 1.4 miles and another
small pile of rocks with the top rock spray-painted red. Near this point is an abandoned house that has
since collapsed. This, and other structures occasionally seen are what remains from when the federal
government condemned land in this area around 1970 or so. All structures between this point and
Millbrook Village should be considered unsafe and should not be entered or ventured near.
Continue following the road downhill until it reaches Van Campen’s Brook at 1.9 miles. Here, the bridge
has been removed. In case of high water, there is a safer crossing about 150 feet upstream. After crossing
the brook, you reach a “T” intersection with a slightly larger dirt road. Follow this new road to the left.
(This road was known as the Columbia-Walpack Turnpike, and leads from Donkey’s Corners to
Millbrook.) This road follows Van Campen’s Brook into Millbrook Village. Once in the village, you may
find the parking area, restrooms (if open), and pamphlets describing the buildings to your right at the
intersection of Old Mine Road and Millbrook-Blairstown Road (2.6 miles). The village is a good place for
a break or a picnic. Remember that you are an ambassador for the camp and your community. Leave this
place better than how you found it. Once you are ready to leave Millbrook Village, return to the old
Columbia-Walpack Turnpike. This old road crosses Millbrook-Blairstown Road at the white church
through rustic gates. This old road leaves the village, enters the forest, and leads to the ponds at Watergate
Recreation Area (3.1 miles). There will be two junctions in the road between there and the glen (the first at
3.4 miles, and the second at 3.9 miles). Bear to the left at each. At the second, the road will start
ascending. Turn onto the yellow trail to your right (4.0 miles). This trail passes to the edge of an old farm
field, under a hemlock forest, then leads to the waterfall known as Upper Van Campen’s Glen at 4.2 miles.
This is a perfect place for a picnic. The waterfall itself flushes a tremendous amount of water through a
narrow opening in the rock, falling into a small, deep pool, and flowing over a smooth rock into a large
pool of water before continuing on. At all times, care must be taken as rocks in this area are almost
continuously wet and slippery from the spray of the waterfall. Use common sense. For troops looking for
a slightly longer hike, follow the yellow trail downstream about 1,000 feet to Lower Van Campen’s Glen,
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another picturesque waterfall. Unless otherwise posted, swimmers should adhere to the 8-point safe swim
defense.
Once ready to leave the glen, follow the yellow trail back to the old road. Turn right onto the old road (4.4
miles) and begin your ascent. The old road will end at a gate at Millbrook-Blairstown Road (5.5 miles).
Turn right onto this paved road. Continue your ascent. Proceed up the hill until the Appalachian Trail
turns right and enters the woods on a gravel road at a gate (5.8 miles). This gravel road and the
Appalachian Trail both lead to the fire tower, however, the Appalachian Trail takes a more direct route.
Follow the white trail markers to the fire tower at 6.8 miles. The fire tower is staffed only during fire
season (autumn and early spring) or during other times when risk of fire is high. At all other times the cab
at the top of the tower is locked. Views can be had at the base of the tower, with slightly better views from
the steps leading to the top of the tower. The clearing at the base of the tower is a great place for a break or
a picnic. The views to the east showcase the farms and forests of Warren County, while views to the west
show off the great forests of Pennsylvania.
Return to Millbrook-Blairstown Road on the Appalachian Trail (the way you came, reaching the road at 7.8
miles). Turn left onto Millbrook-Blairstown Road. The Appalachian Trail (white) will enter the woods to
the left near the top of the mountain at a small parking area. Follow the Appalachian Trail to the beaver
dam pond at Copperhead Spring. After crossing the wooden bridge, go straight at the trail junction onto the
blue-and-white trail (8.2 miles). The blue-and-white trail gently descends the mountain, at times between
enormous boulders. After passing a huge flat rock (another great place for a rest or picnic at 8.5 miles), the
trail levels out, and follows the foot of the mountain back to the junction with the blue trail (8.7). Turn
right onto the blue trail and continue your descent. You may notice trees ringed with orange paint. This is
the camp boundary. Welcome home. Follow the blue trail to Sand Pond Lodge (9.1 miles).
Total distance: 9.1 miles
(NOTE: The distance listed does not include exploration of Millbrook Village, the optional trip to Lower
Van Campen’s Glen, or hiking from the campsite to the trailhead. If the group visits each building listed in
the pamphlet at Millbrook Village and also visits Lower Van Campen’s Glen, this hike will total 10 miles.)
Elevation gain: 1,190 feet
Trail ranking: Eagle
NOTE: This trail is not recommended during hunting season.
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Additional notes
WINTER: All of these trails are possible to do in the winter time. However, if icy conditions exist, Scouts
should consider avoiding the blue trail in favor of the blue-and-white trail as a means of ascending the
mountain. Depending on severity, Scouts may also want to avoid the red trail as a means of climbing the
mountain.
HUNTING SEASONS (late autumn, winter): The vast majority of these trails are not hunted, as hunters do
not wish to be bothered by hikers while hunting. Scouts thinking about the red trail to Millbrook Village
should probably hike down Millbrook-Blairstown Road instead. Consult with the ranger to get additional
information on hunting seasons.
CAMPING: There is no camping along the Fairview Lake trail after leaving camp property.
ALSO: Check out “The Ecology and Forestry Interpretive Trail” and “The Camp History Trail” – both
approximately 2 ½ miles! A special trail guide pamphlet is available at www.nnjbsa-conservation.org and
at the camp.
BLAIR CREEK PRESERVE: Additional hiking opportunities are possible at the adjacent Blair Creek
Preserve (operated by the NJ Chapter of The Nature Conservancy). The Preserve’s trails are accessed by a
connector trail that runs downhill from the bridge at the brook mentioned in the Fairview Lake trail. That
connector
trail
is
not
shown
on
the
Preserve’s
map
(https://ridgeandvalleyconservancy.files.wordpress.com/2015/01/blair-creek-trails.pdf) but ends at Fairview
Lake Lane near the curve.
Photo credits: Jason Rich, Paul Buttgereit, Sean Walsh, Marc Jenkins, Bill Kallesser
Update notes:



Original guide dated 4/6/2007
Guide updated 11/26/2008 to reflect change in color from blue-and-white (old) trail to green (new)
trail.
This update (3/28/2016) reflects change in color from green (old) trail to blue-and-white (new)
trail. It also describes the reroute of the Appalachian Trail at/near the top of the mountain
following the PSE&G powerline upgrade.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: Thanks to members of the Sand Pond Society for assistance in remarking and
maintaining the trails listed in this pamphlet, and for providing the special reflective markers for the yellow
trail.
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