Stairway to Heaven in Ugly Sweaters & Holiday Tailgate Party 7+ Miles

A unique hiking experience in NJ - we start on the storied Appalachian Trail Boardwalk that includes a wooden suspension bridge, and then transitions through cow pastures to a steep mountain trail. [NOTE: The mountain trail part is not suitable for beginners!] At the top of the climb, we will be treated to one of the best viewpoints in NJ - the Pinwheel Vista. This out-and-back hike is rated moderate-to-strenuous, with an elevation gain of about 1200 ft. Parking is limited at the trailhead, so we will meet ten minutes ahead of time at Maple Grange Park (click map), then carpool a short distance to the trailhead. Good hiking boots required; hiking poles helpful.

NOTE: Tailgate Party information will be posted as the day approaches.

Bring plenty of water and snacks, and appropriate seasonal items (sun- and insect-protection in summer, and crampons in winter). Day-of-hike phone: 973-704-7362.

**Note** We hike at a moderate pace, and never leave anyone behind. Our hikes are not suitable for fast hikers who like to forge ahead of the group.

**To join our hikes, you must enable Meetup messaging with organizers (see "New to hiking" link below), and must post a profile image that can be used to recognize you. If you do not, you may be removed from Going list.

**By signing up for this event you are acknowledging that you have read and accepted the posted HBCM legal disclaimer: https://www.dropbox.com/s/xnhrymhrmzp0qtm/HBCM%20Legal%20Disclaimer.pdf?dl=0

**HBCM policies to discourage "repeat no-shows" and/or "repeat late-cancels" (canceling <48 hours before hike): https://www.dropbox.com/s/3qgyyghxu1ipnl4/HBCM%20Policies.pdf?dl=0

** New to hiking or Meetup? Try: https://www.dropbox.com/s/xhdhn0yb8wy3gzv/New%20Hiker%20Guide.pdf?dl=0

MEETING LOCATION: 36 Maple Grange Rd, Vernon Township, NJ 07462.
We carpool from this location. Port-a-Potty might be available at parking location. Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/h6JmEYmsbUS2s5559