If you’re short on time or looking for a leisurely stroll in a peaceful setting with a fascinating past, then the Minisink Battleground Park Trails and Towpath Trail are perfect for you. These trails offer well-maintained paths that are mostly flat and easy to navigate, making them ideal for even the most inexperienced hiker. As history enthusiasts, we enjoyed our experience and would recommend visiting these two trails.
Minisink Battleground Park:
The Minisink Battleground Park is a tribute to the courageous soldiers who lost their lives during the “Battle of Minisink.” The battle, which took place in 1779, involved a local militia that faced off against a combined force of British loyalists and Native American warriors. It was the only Upper Delaware skirmish during the American Revolutionary War. Visitors can take a brief hike around the perimeter of the battleground to gain a better understanding of the historical significance of the site.
- Location: 58 County Road 168 Barryville, NY 12719 (Off Route 97)
- Elevation: 137 feet
- Trail Distance: 1 mile Loop with offshoots to other trails
- Difficulty: Easy
- Pet Friendly: Yes- Dogs must be on leash
- Hours: Open Daily from April to October 8 am to Dusk
- Admission: Free
From the parking lot walk toward the welcome center. There you will find the history of the park and information about the region. Once you’re there, you’ll have the option to choose between two trails: the Old Quarry Trail or the Woodland Trail. We decided to go right and follow the Woodland Trail, which takes you around the outskirts of the Minisink Battleground.
Eventually, you’ll come across an intersection where you can either go right towards the Battleground Trail or left towards the Woodland Trail. We continued to follow the Woodland trail. The trail was a well-defined moss-covered gravel that reminded me of the “yellow brick road” from The Wizard of Oz. It was beautiful!
We kept following the trail as it gradually ascended. Along the way, we noticed markers every few feet, which we initially mistook for mile markers, but they seemed too close together. Although we didn’t realize it at the time or see any information at the welcome center, we later learned that the “self-guided trails provide the visitor with an opportunity for a more in-depth knowledge of these themes.” As we continued, the trail took a sharp right turn and began to descend, leading us to another intersection where the Battleground Trail and Woodland Trail met. We stayed on the Woodland Trail until we reached its end, just before reaching another intersection. At this point, you can either go left onto a side trail or go right towards the Battleground Trail. At the corner, you will see a large rock called Indian Rock. Legend has it, the rock was set there during the Battle of Minisink to honor the fallen.
From there, we followed the Old Quarry Trail. Along this trail, we encountered numerous large rocks and trenches until we eventually made our way back to the welcome center. Unlike our usual hikes through the woods, this one didn’t offer breathtaking views, and there were several off-shoots with different trail names that occasionally confused us. However, it was peaceful and historically rich. As history enthusiasts, we only wish we could have understood certain areas better.
Towpath Trail:
The scenic Towpath Trail, located at Roebling Bridge (Delaware Aqueduct), takes you on a delightful journey along the historic route of the Delaware & Hudson Canal. As you embark on this trail, you’ll be transported back in time to the era when the canal played a vital role in transportation and trade. The trail meanders alongside the canal, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty and providing a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
- Location: Route 97 at Roebling Bridge
- Trail Distance: 1 mile out and back
- Difficulty: Easy
- Pet Friendly: Yes- Dogs must be on leash
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Admission: Free
We first took a stroll along the Towpath trail which runs under the Roebling Bridge that connects New York to Pennsylvania. We made sure to notice the design of the bridge, which is actually a suspension bridge that was transformed later to allow for automobile and foot traffic. The Roebling Bridge is credited as being the oldest existing wire suspension bridge in the United States. During our stroll, we admired the beautiful views of the Delaware River and conversed about the meticulously crafted rock walls that stood the test of time. Additionally, our attention was drawn to the trail’s informative markers, which highlighted the diverse array of tree species that adorned our path. The trail itself is well-maintained, making it accessible for hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts of all ages
Roebling Bridge:
Next we took a walk along the Roebling Bridge. It is not only a scenic escape but also a place of educational value. Along the way we encountered informative signage that shed light on the canal’s significance and the engineering marvels of the bridge. We learned about the canal’s role in shaping the region’s development and the impact it had on the local economy. The area offers a unique opportunity to connect with the past and appreciate the efforts that went into constructing and maintaining this important waterway.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful stroll, a bike ride, or a chance to delve into history, the Towpath Trail at Roebling Bridge is a must-visit destination.
