Elm Ridge Wild Forest — Attraction in Town of Windham

This place is incredibly beautiful and serene, I've hiked up to the lean-to twice from the Peck road trailhead; it's really difficult after it rains because the trail itself is actually an intermittent stream. I came here because from the satellite view it looked like there was a healthy Beaver population about a quarter mile west of the Peck Rd parking lot. The meadow there was fresh with frogs and indigenous flowers, and there were plenty of trees which had been cut down by past generations of Beaver. After spending a few hours there though, it was clear that the population had either died out recently or had all been trapped up, and the water flowing rapidly over the top of the dam seemed to confirm this. There might be a population north of there but I have yet to see, either way the serenity of standing in the middle of a pristine environment like this in almost complete silence is an idiosyncratic experience totally...

This is a truly superb mountain! Compared to most of the high peaks in the Catskill this one was easy! Just a few spots of longer elevation gain, no rock scrambles. Trail is very well marked and even with the trail covered in leaves there is no way you're getting lost.

I did this the long loop, which ended up being 13 miles and some but about 3 miles at the end is on a not well traveled road so even that road walk was pleasant. Many beautiful views! An enchanted pine forest. A Wonderful ridge walk. Can't really say enough about this mountain.

Only downside, if any, was that the trail was very muddy, and not just dryish mud but, really wet, deep mud. Not the entire trail, but definitely a lot of it. But it was expected after all the rain we've had. It honestly didn't detract from the day at all for the dog and I, but it could if you don't have...

I just discovered this place. I rode the mountain bike trails and had a great time. There are good trail markers and maps at key points. Some of the trails are shared with hikers so be alert. The other riders were helpful when I asked for suggestions. Fun loops are fun and not too demanding. If you are physically able I suggest going to the top and trying the longer trails. Noot Run, levitate and the gold mine were...