![]() ![]() There is a very good view, even without the former tower. Perhaps the vegetation has encroached, or maybe there was an effort to remove them. ![]() ![]() I recall some remnants of the tower anchors at one time, but it has been a few years since my last visit there. The "High Point" tower site, which is on a trail, is near a local 2240' high point and about one half mile from the 2289' points. It can be quite beautiful at peak color, but as it is quite exposed and generally very windy the peak color does not last long. The barrens are covered with blueberry and huckleberry bushes which resemble a vast red carpet in mid October. Thankfully there are some barrens where it is possible to navigate around on the rock and gravel surfaces to avoid trampling the vegetation. The vegetation is quite thick in some areas and at times impenetrable. However, I have obtained permission to photograph off trail in that general vicinity, so it should be possible. ![]() They officially prohibit off trail hiking in that area of the Preserve to protect the wildlife and vegetation. You would also need to obtain permission from the Sam's Point Preserve office. That explains the lack of trails and why few hikers would deem the flat 2289' high points worthy of a visit. I suspect one would need to climb (or more correctly visit) both to complete the various prominence lists on which the Shawangunk Ridge is included. That is a good question for which I have never heard an answer. ![]()
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