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Discover the Damascus Forest Trail

| 16 Jul 2015 | 03:55
    A stand of old growth hemlocks along the Damascus Forest trail. (Photo: National Park Service)
    A stand of old growth hemlocks along the Damascus Forest trail. (Photo: National Park Service)

BEACH LAKE — Park rangers will lead a hike on the Damascus Forest Trail in Beach Lake at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, July 19.

The hike will include instruction on the basics of nature photography, featuring native birds that inhabit the Damascus Forest, so make sure to bring a camera.

The two-mile trail loop in the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River area is rated easy, making the program perfect for hikers and photographers of any skill level. Park staff will lead participants on an educational and instructional tour of the trail, focusing on the fascinating and diverse array of birds that will be flying overhead and chirping as the hike unfolds. The trail itself features wetlands and old growth forests, including a beautiful stand of old-growth hemlocks.

The Damascus Trail is one of the six trails featured in the “Take a Hike!” program. The six trails here in the Delaware River Valley are rated by difficulty and length, and are a perfect way to get out and experience a National Park near you. Complete all six hikes and receive a “Take a Hike!” patch.

In 2015, ranger-led programs will take place on five of the six “Take a Hike!” trails between July and September. Information on these programs can be found on the park website at www.nps.gov/upde. Hiking information and the schedule of park events can also be obtained by calling the park at 570-685-4871 or by visiting us at the Zane Grey Museum in Lackawaxen, or at one of our information kiosks located at the river accesses by Skinners Falls, Ten Mile River, Lackawaxen, or Mongaup.

This free hike is open to the public. To get to the trailhead, turn onto River Road from PA Route 652 (near the Narrowsburg Bridge). Turn left on MacCubbins Road, and travel .6 miles. The parking lot is on the right hand side. The GPS coordinates are 413808.4 – 750343.8.

The hike should last around two hours, so wear sturdy hiking shoes, and pack plenty of water, some snacks, and bug spray.

For more information call 570-685-4871, or visit www.nps.gov/upde.