This is another cache in my series of caches for the major cliffs
of the Shawangunks (a.k.a. "Gunks") Ridge in the area of New Paltz
and Gardiner, NY.
Bonticou Crag is the striking cliff line to the north of the
Skytop Cliff that has the landmark tower on top. The cliff is
nearly 1200 feet above sea level and is made up of conglomerate
rock that is over 300 million years old. At the base off the cliff
is a large slope of giant boulders, torn from the cliffs by
glaciers and weathering. The name "Bonticou" comes from the Dutch
"bonte koe", which means "spotted cow". The Hugenot immigrants came
to America in a ship with that name, and a small hamlet in the area
adopted that name as well. Since 1880, the cliff has been named
Bonticou Crag.
A very exciting 3 mile loop will get you to the top and back.
This short hike is my favorite hike in the Shawangunks. The top of
the cliff has extensive views in every direction, and is a
beautiful combination of gleaming white rock and pitch pines. In
the spring, mountain laurel is in bloom, and in the summer, wild
blueberries abound. The colors in the autumn are breathtakingly
spectacular. Please consult a trail map (available for free from
the Mohonk Preserve Visitor's Center) for the best route to take.
There are two ways to ascend to the summit - the hard but exciting
way is straight up the boulder field and cliff, and there is an
easier blue blazed trail that takes a gradual way up.
The cache is hidden on the hard way up - the Bonticou Ascent
Path, the yellow blazed trail that leads straight up the steep
field of boulders, up along the side of the cliff, and to the top.
It is not for the physically challenged or people who have a fear
of heights. It requires demanding rock scrambling that requires
both hands and feet and balance, as well as appropriate hiking
footwear with good traction. High steps and stepping over gaping
holes is required, so this trail is not recommended for very small
children or people wearing sandals or other inappropriate shoes for
hiking. Because of icy conditions, this trail is NOT recommended in
the winter. You may see rock climbers going straight up the cliffs
next to you as you take the "easier" way up.
While you ascend the maze of boulders, you will come upon a nice
flat spot to take a rest. It's like a big flat patio compared to
what you just came up. This would be a good place to think about
looking for a cache.
Parking can be found at the Spring Farm Trailhead in the Mohonk
Preserve, on Upper 27 Knolls Road. There is a manned booth at the
entrance to the parking lot to collect day pass fees. It can be
crowded on beautiful weekend days, and the parking lot has a
bathroom outhouse.
The Mohonk Preserve is a private land conservation organization
established to protect the Shawangunk Ridge, it is not public land
funded by the government. Therefore, there is a day use fee to use
the preserve which funds its maintenance and programs. For the
current day pass fees, check the
Mohonk Preserve
website. The Mohonk Preserve does allow geocaching on its land,
as long as it is along established trails and carriage roads. Note
that dogs must be leashed at all times.
References:
- A Rock With a View, by Steve Weinman.
- Scenes and Walks in the Northern Shawangunks, by Jack
Fagan.
- Shawangunks Trail Companion, by Jeffrey Perls.