This moderately difficult hike in the very lightly trafficked Pequannock Watershed is on unblazed woodland trails and fire roads along with a short section of the Highlands Trail. There is a small stream crossing and nice views from top of Kanouse Mountain (a.k.a. Maneater playground) and Echo Lake from the the Highlands Trail. A group permit is required and was obtained. Parking: Newfoundland Park & Ride on Old Paterson Hamburg Turnpike (Old Route 23), Newfoundland NJ 07435. Parking can hold 144 vehicles..Distance: 6.6 miles, loop trailParking Lot GPS Coordinates: 41°02’47.0″N 74°26’11.8″WVertical Rise: about 846 feetDifficulty: Moderately strenuous, some parts of trails are very rockyStream Crossing: a few small streamsTerrain: Rolling woodland trails and dirt/rocky fire roads with many wet areasHiking Time: 3 hoursBathrooms: None.Map: NY-NJ TC Map (#125)Dogs welcome.Link to document describing hike, including trail map, and directions to trail head:https://1drv.ms/b/s!AoQE7lldj2uLrfR4wq58vkApt0cQtw Recommend bring water, seasonal clothing, microcleats if temperature below freezing or snow on ground. Trekking poles are advise for one steep descent. And always bring a sense of adventure.
