This hike will take us through a variety of habitats and views, with stops at the Fishing Pier and Old Mill Dam. The hike will be about 3 miles long, traversing a small portion of the paved biking and walking trail as well as the more rugged Old Mill Trail. This trail is moderately difficult, being mostly level (less than 200 feet of elevation gain throughout route), but with some roots, rocks, uneven ground, and mud to traverse. There are two stream crossings requiring moderate dexterity across rocks, but no big leaps required or wet shoes anticipated. We will keep a leisurely pace, with plenty of time for stopping for photographs or questions. Sturdy hiking shoes or boots required. Water, hat, sunscreen, bug spray recommended.
Meet at Old Mill Trail trailhead parking lot: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bkZ8HHDCWug5dQpV7. This will be the first large gravel lot on your right after you turn down Deerwood Lane. Use the map pin, or navigate to the Park Office at 1542 Mountainview Drive, and look for the signs for Fishing Pier/Deerwood Lane 1/8 of a mile south of the park office. There is no bathroom in this trailhead lot, but there are pit toilets farther down the road to the Fishing Pier. Our hiking route will take us by these toilets at the start, when we walk down for a look at the lake from the Fishing Pier. Flush bathrooms are available at nearby picnicking areas in the Day Use Area of the park (Park Office entrance).
Our hike will be guided by Nockamixon State Park environmental education specialist Rachel N. and will be limited to a maximum of 12 members. In case of inclement weather the hike will be cancelled at the discretion of our guide (by 8:00 am on June 6th, at the latest).
