Thursday, May 27, 2010

Worthington State Forest- Mt. Tammany

This Monday we took a trip to the Worthington State Forest near the Delaware Water Gap to explore Mount Tammany. Worthington State Forest has several trails of various lengths and difficulties but Mt. Tammany was the one we had our eye on. Even though the Mt. Tammany Trail is only 1.3 miles long it rises to an elevation of 1527 feet within those 1.3 miles, so the trail is no joke. Upon arriving at the Delaware Water gap we encountered some minor confusion to where the start of the trail was. Seeing as Worthington State Forest is vast and offers many trails we went a little out of the way but quickly figured out where to go. If you are coming from New Jersey on Interstate 80 west right before the toll take the exit for Dunnfield Creek and continue straight on that road and the parking lot will be on your right, with the start of the Mt. Tammany near the road.


 The trail begins with a series of steps which quickly leads to the steep rocky trail that Mt. Tammany is known for. There is also countless warnings posted for active wildlife in the park such as Black Bears, Timber Rattlesnakes, and Copperheads. Within minutes of being on this part of the trail the sweat started to pour and our bodies were put to the test. The first uphill section felt like it lasted forever, but offered us with our first overlook facing Mt. Minsi and also a good place to rest.


After admiring the view, the trail continued on less difficult terrain, but we were soon put up against a steep uphill climb. Most of the trail from this point to the top is difficult and requires both hands to climb over some large rocks and steep inclines. Once at the top there is a beautiful overlook which made the intense and exhausting climb up worth it.


 Rather then turning back and climbing down Mt. Tammany we decided to pick up the Blue Trail and take that back to the parking lot. Right before entering the trail we stopped for some food and drink at a small vista. This location was my favorite of the day as it was very peaceful, offered a nice view and there were no other hikers around. After our short rest we picked up and continued our journey back. The Blue Trail was fairly rocky and steep which became quite annoying very quickly.



Sometimes it is easier going uphill on very rocky terrain than going downhill on less rocky terrain. The Blue Trail was pretty steady downhill for most of the way with little to see. After being on this trail for sometime we encountered a large group of young adults who were quite loud and rowdy which ruined our hiking experience for a brief moment. Once the group was out of range the trail continued with more rocky downhill, but we began to hear the sounds of running water in the distance which helped us push on. Finally we reached the creek and were in awe of its beauty.


                                    
 The creek was a very interesting and exciting place to explore. The way water ran through the rocks and the forest was very impressive. The water was also crystal clear and looked as though it would be a perfect swimming spot on hot summer day. The remainder of the hike was relatively flat and the creek ran along side the trail which provided some great sights. After completing the trail we decided to go visit the banks of the Delaware River to relax for a little.


Overall Mt.Tammany was a very demanding hike and offered some very interesting sights and possible views of wildlife. It is also satisfying to complete this hike seeing as it is one of the tougher hikes in New Jersey with a very high elevation.

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