Shawangunk Ridge State Forest Cleanup
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Shawangunk Ridge State Forest Cleanup

We often go to different parts of the Shawangunk Ridge state forest for hiking. The one we went to today is towards Ellenville NY (Or as Wendy Williams calls it ‘Ellen’). Anyway, this is a great trail that offers views, small waterfalls and plenty of nature, and trash. At first, the trail seemed clean but then after finding one glass bottle, the eyes started to see everything.

old outhouse
Old outhouse in the middle of the forest

What We Found

Besides glass and water bottles, we found:

  • Candy Wrappers
  • Sharp metal
  • Bucket
  • Beer cans
  • Broken glass
  • Cigarette butts
  • Easy Cheese can

These were just a few of the items we found. We ended up coming out with a whole black back full of garbage (thanks to the 40oz beer bottles and bucket). My five gallon bucket was also full. Overall, it was a good day to hike and clean. We missed the sun and welcome the heat.

shawangunk trail trash
Garbage from the trail

Things We Couldn’t Take

Since this Shawangunk Ridge trail is along Route 52 and was the Old Route 52, there is plenty of big garbage as well. The closer you get to the new road, the more garbage you will find. There were multiple tires, car parts and other large metal pieces. Along the trail you’ll also find an abandoned trailer and old dwelling with an outhouse. There is glass and house remains everywhere. This, you can’t put in one garbage bag and call it a day. Our goal for next time is to take one tire out at a time. I have a strong hubby. He can do it! =D

man carrying trash
He carried the heavy bag for four miles!

Trail Difficulty

As far as trails go, this one is pretty easy. The hardest part is the beginning part, going up towards the Old Route 52 trail. Once you reach the top, you have two options; go left or right. The left trail is what we took and is the lower trail while the right side takes you closer to the road. You’ll be able to see the old Nevele resort from this trail.

If you are in the area, you should check out this Shawangunk Ridge trail. It has plenty of water falls and a path that takes you to the bottom of the waterfall. We started heading that way, found a tick, and came running back up to the main trail.

Mountain views
Views from the trail
Shawangunk ridge trail trash

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