West Mountain State Forest

My dogs and I have spent hundreds of hours back here and Im convinced no one out there know these woods over all better than us. It has mountains, lakes ledges waterfalls (when its not too dry) wetlands. There was a few old farmstead and I've found the old wheels and other farmstead stuff from the 1800s. Pretty cool history. What I don't see is many deer which I guess is not surprising, because they're right in my backyard. It's a beautiful area and its unfortuneate the state was unable to get the 100 acre parcel that would have connected the NE corner of the forest to wingdale road (adjacent the quarry) and provided another great entry point.

The ride in on the very rural, narrow road is an adventure in the rain. Snow would require definite 4×4 from the pavement. The parking area is littered and I will personally return with a rake to make an attempt to clean it up. But this is a natural BEAUTY!!!

Camping was fun (a lot of bugs though so don't forget your spray!!) there's no sign pointing to the blue path (just little stickers on the trees) so it's hard to find the path behind the trees also the path becomes steep and high!

Beautiful views from Cat's Rock along the Appalachian Trail.

Mostly used in hunting season. Extremely difficult to get to, because the homeowner's association does not allow trespassing - including going in the main road. There are signs that tell you to stay out. Only access is at the periphery, narrow strips of property. Recommendation: Use Dutchess County's Parcel Access to map the area, and, use a GPS to avoid trespassing on private property. I haven't been able to get onto the upper section yet because of this difficulty.