March 19, 2016—Harriman State Park, NY
On a clear crisp morning students and ICO volunteers met on the steps of Ellis High School. Following safety checks, we formed a circle and introduced ourselves.
We had a comfortable journey in a classic yellow school bus to the trailhead at the End of Johnsontown Road in Sloatsburg. Before joining the Blue Disc Trail Andrew and Angelica lead icebreaker group games. Our group leader Ray gave us an overview of group safety, including paying attention to your environment, Leave no Trace principles, correct clothing and equipment, and the importance of remaining hydrated. A water monitor was appointed and our Catrock Youth Leaders took on the role of group sweeps. With maps in hand we began our day hike.
The Blue Disc Trail climbs two mountains, Almost Perpendicular and Pound Mountain. It passes two rock formations Elbow Brush and Claudius Smith Rock. Almost Perpendicular has a steep rocky scramble that leads to a great view over Harriman Park. Here we rested after our strenuous climb, to have a water break and enjoy the breathtaking view. We continued happily, chatting and getting to know new faces; along the Blue Disc Trail through Elbow Brush and then on to The Claudius Smith Den, a massive rock outcrop with a cave formation, formed as slabs weathered off the cliff. Named after Claudius Smith, a notorious 18th Century bandit. He and his gang used the rocks as a hideout. However, he was caught in late 1778 and met his fate in January 1779 on the gallows.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Claudius_Smith
At Claudius Smith Rock we stopped for a break, with a glorious view west to the Village of Tuxedo. The sun was shining it was so beautiful. After lunch we all scrambled down to the base of rock to explored the caves and tunnels that Claudius and his gang hid in. Nine adventurous souls climbed to the roof of the cave, quite an achievement! We regrouped, checked all was well before we began our return hike. On route we took a water break before the steep descent on Almost Perpendicular, and we shared our thoughts and experiences of the day. Without a doubt everyone had a wonderful day’s hiking, enjoying great company, and teamwork.
Before continuing, I would like to sincerely thank Angelica and Andrew our Catrock Youth Leaders. Their knowledge and skills made an outstanding contribution to our trip.
Congratulations to the young people of Ellis High School on their achievement, huge thank you to Krisy and Ray for organizing a great trip, and very well done to Angelica and Andrew. Please join us again you were awesome. Many thanks to the ICO volunteers, and a special welcome to new ICO volunteers.
Looking forward to the next trip, so proud to be a member of NYCICO.