What you’ll see: This loop hike begins at the AMC’s Mohican Outdoor Center located in the Delaware National Recreation Area in Blairstown, N.J. From the lodge there is a half-mile walk south to a point where the popular Coppermine Trail intersects the Appalachian Trail. Take the right fork and follow the red blazed Coppermine Trail. After a half-mile assent to a low ridge, this trail descends steadily for the the next 1.5 miles to the Delaware River passing through rhododendron and hemlock glens and even by a waterfall. There are a number of abandoned coppermines worked in the 19th century that hikers will see along the way and the foundation of and old wayside hotel at the lower end of the trail. From here the Coppermine Trail intersects with the Blue blazed Kaiser Road trail and gradually ascends for 2.2 miles to the Appalachian Trail at a point called Raccoon Ridge close by to Mount Mohican. This is a favorite view location for eagles and hawks as many bird-watching groups depart from Mohican for this purpose. Hikers will turn left and head north on the AT 3.8 miles back to Mohican Lodge with outstanding views of the NJ Highlands and local reservoirs.

What you’ll experience:

• This eight-mile loop hike is of moderate grade and easy terrain.
• This hike is suitable for both adults and children and should expect a hiking time of 4 ½ to 5 hours.

What’s in the area:

• AMC Mohican Outdoor Center
• The Highlands Coalition works non-stop to protect and preserve the lands immediately east of the Kittatiny Ridge.
• The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is one of the most visited sites of the National park System.

Getting There

• Start at AMC’s Mohican Outdoor Center.
• Free parking at Mohican. Check in at the Main Lodge and staff will direct to parking area for trail hiking.
• Mohican Outdoor Center is 1 ½ hours west of New York’s GW bridge following I-80 and taking exit 12 north 5 miles to Blairstown, Rt. 94.
• Point of departure is from the Mohican Lodge so guests may acquire maps of this loop hike at the front desk.