Harriman State Park, Lake Wanoksink
UDATE- We’ve been told that swimming in the lake isn’t allowed, so this is now a “See” location to enjoy a hike. We also recommend picking up or printing out a trail map before you begin your hike.
This lake has crystal clear blue water, and is surrounded by forests and hills. It is fairly remote, and I didn’t see another soul during the three hours I spent here. I don’t think it’s as popular as some of the other lakes, so a visit here should give you a little piece and quiet. There is a small rocky beach which has a large rock to stretch out on, and a fire pit.
To get there, take NY-17 North into Sloatsburg, NY, and just after the downtown area you’ll take a right on Seven Lakes Dr. (there with be signs guiding you). Take Seven Lakes Dr. for 4.2 miles and take a left at the road for the boat launch which is where you can park. Right across the road from the parking area you will see the Seven Hills trail (blue markers). Take this trail for about 15-20 minutes, where it will take a sharp right. At this point take the grey trail (see link to map) down to the Pine Meadow Road West and take a right on it. This trail is much wider, it seems like it was an old road you could drive on. After about 5-10 minutes you will come to a cleared area with a dirt mound on your left. After this clearing take the trail to your left, and this will bring you to the lake. There are other routes to get here, and you can refer to the linked map if you want to try something different.
From here I walked down one of the grey trails down to Pine Meadow Lake, which is about 15 minutes away and well worth visiting.
Location Details
- 45-50 min.
- 41 10.870, -74 07.525
- Moderate-Hard