looking for a NY/CT area easy backpacking trip

[lilprincess]

I take a backpacking trip each September to start the school year off with whoever is homeschooling that year. This year I have a friend whose daughter is dying to try backpacking and wants to go with us. Her mom is now yearning to hit the trail as well. Now, we are talking about a family that has done no more than state parks before and the mom is a bit nervous about being in the woods. I need a trail that is off the beaten path to give her the experience, isn't so hard that she will never want to go again, and has a nice view or two. Lakes, waterfalls and vistas all count as possibilities. The AT is something I'm comfortable with further north, but not so much close to NY. (They are from near NYC, and I'd like to be kinda close to there area but not next door) Clean shelters (with privies) not bothered by partiers would be a bonus. Any thoughts?

[SilvrSurfr]

There is a nice campsite near Bull's Bridge (Kent, CT). It's approximately one mile south on the AT to the Ten Mile River campsite just over the iron bridge where Ten Mile River dumps into the Housatonic River. I've been there before and it's a great campsite. Nothing like going to sleep with the sound of a river!

You can also hike back to Bull's Bridge, and then 4.4 miles north on the AT to the Schagticoke Mountain campsite. It's not an easy hike (I was out of shape last time I went), but there is running water.

[SilvrSurfr]

Thought I'd add a link:

http://berkshirehiking.com/hikes/bulls_bridge.html

[Rex Clifton]

The Escarpment Trail in the Catskills, near Haines Falls. Start at th top of Katterskill Falls and then loop around to the mountain house site up to North Point. Come back through Mary's Glen and a short road walk back to the falls. It's easy and picturesque, plus allot of history there.

[Silent Bob]

When I hiked CT I started at Race Brook Falls which is right over the CT border. You will pass a few water falls and streams. The hike up to the AT was a little steep and then you'll have the climb up bear mountain. Other than that CT is a pretty easy state. You have to stay at Riga shelter the sunrise is worth it.

[lilprincess]

Love bear Mtn. Was hoping for something a little more west though.

Thanks everyone. I'll look all those up for sure. Looks like the mom won't be able to make it so we will have a few more options.

[lilprincess]

Planning on going from Bulls bridge to CT341. Anyone know the good parking places? One vehicle will have to stay the night.

[SilvrSurfr]

Planning on going from Bulls bridge to CT341. Anyone know the good parking places? One vehicle will have to stay the night.

The folks at Bull's Bridge Inn will let you park in their parking lot if you ask them (at least that's where I always park).

[lilprincess]

Thanks so much everyone. Bulls bridge was a great hike! Water sources were scarce but we loaded up on water and had a great time. ImageUploadedByTapatalk1441801548.851314.jpg
Even did a little "stealth camping" on calebs peak.
ImageUploadedByTapatalk1441801625.317072.jpg
And met lots of frogs looking for water.