(Photo by D. Felicetta)
This seven-mile hike will begin at Millbrook Road, visit the fire tower at the summit, and include the complete Balsam Lake Mountain Trail. Rated as moderate-difficult, the expected duration of the outing is four-to-five hours. Participants need to bring lunch/ snacks, water/ sports drink, rain gear, sturdy hiking shoes, sun and insect protection, a head lamp, and hiking poles (recommended).
This hike is limited to 12 people and registration is required. To register, contact Al Purdy at Albertpurdy1@aol.com or (845) 514-0919 by August 21. Please note, dogs are not permitted on this hike, and poor weather conditions will postpone the hike.
Directions to Millbrook Road Parking Area: From NYS Thruway Exit 19 Kingston, turn right onto Route 28 and follow for 33 miles. Turn left at Highmount/ Belleayre Ski Center onto route 49a for 5 miles. Turn left onto Dry Brook Road for 1.25 miles, then turn right onto Millbrook Road for 2.0 miles to the DEC parking area on the right.
From Route 28 west, continue 1.2 miles past Bridge Street, Margaretville, see sign for Dry Brook Ridge, and turn right on Dry Brook Road. Continue on Dry Brook Road for six miles, turn right onto Millbrook Road, and continue about two miles until you see the sign for the parking area at the top of the hill.
GPS Coordinates for Millbrook Road Parking Area: 42.07009, -74.57412
Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KALiARjWnhkPDsv1A