#2008-15: May 23, 2008 National Trails Day Hike - The Dry Brook Ridge - June 7th Join the Catskill Center for Conservation and Development in a celebration of National Trails Day as we hike the Dry Brook Ridge Trail. The fabled Dry Brook Ridge overlooks our offices in Arkville and runs from Margaretville and the East Branch of the Delaware River south over Balsam Lake Mountain to the Beaver Kill. This difficult 15 mile hike will be split into two sections, allowing participants the opportunity to join us for one or both legs of the journey. We will leave the Margaretville trailhead at 9AM and make our way to the Mill Brook road parking area (9.6 miles). At this point hikers may depart from the group, or join us at 2PM as we continue south on the trail, and make our way to the Balsam Lake Mountain Fire Tower - a moderate-difficult portion. After a stop at the tower to take in the marvelous views, we will continue down the ridge and end our hike at the Beaver Kill road parking area where a vehicle will be waiting to shuttle us back. The hike will be lead by staff members of the Catskill Center, all experienced hikers, trail stewards, and deeply familiar with the area. Come out for a great day of hiking, some possible light trail maintenance, and a chance to explore and appreciate a wonderful piece of the Catskills. Bring lunch and plenty of water. No pets please. Registration required by June 5th. For more information, and to register please contact Ben Murdock or Peter Manning at 845-586-2611. Directions to trailhead: Take State Route 28 to Margaretville. ¼-mile west of the village entrance, turn onto South Side Road (near an auto body shop and across from a car wash) and proceed up a small hill, turning left onto South Side Road. Proceed ¼-mile, and park along the shoulder of the road near the trailhead.