Big Hill Shelter, Stony Point, NY

**Introduction / Overview: Your Escape to Big Hill Shelter**

For New Yorkers seeking a genuine, accessible wilderness experience without the multi-state travel, the Big Hill Shelter offers an exceptional local destination. Located within the sprawling and popular Harriman State Park, this historic stone lean-to provides an iconic and much-loved overnight stop for hikers on some of the region's most famous trails, including the Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail (S-BM) and the Long Path. Far more than just a place to sleep, the shelter is a destination in itself, perched atop a hill to deliver breathtaking panoramic views that stretch all the way to the Manhattan skyline on a clear day.

Built in 1927, the Big Hill Shelter embodies the rustic charm and dedication to outdoor recreation that defines the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference and the Palisades Interstate Park system. Its sturdy, three-sided stone construction and classic features have made it a favorite for generations of local campers, providing a reliable refuge that is as memorable as it is functional. It’s an ideal setting for a peaceful night under the stars, a much-needed break on a challenging hike, or a fantastic introduction to backpacking for those in the greater New York area. As many local hikers attest, it remains a "peaceful and memorable" spot that is "always worth the trip."

The shelter’s unique appeal lies in its combination of historical significance, accessibility from the city, and the stunning natural environment of Harriman State Park. It perfectly encapsulates the rugged beauty of the Hudson Highlands, offering a quick and satisfying retreat from the hustle of city life. Whether you're planning a full thru-hike on the Long Path or simply an ambitious weekend loop, the Big Hill Shelter provides an essential piece of the local hiking infrastructure.

**Location and Accessibility: Easily Reachable Wilderness**

Big Hill Shelter is strategically situated in the Hudson Valley, making it highly accessible for residents of New York City and the surrounding suburbs.

**Address:** Camp Winaki Rd, Stony Point, NY 10980, USA (This address points to a general area within Harriman State Park, which is the immediate vicinity of the shelter, though the shelter itself is accessed by foot trail only).

The shelter is located on Big Hill, near the summit, at an elevation that affords its spectacular views. It is part of the extensive trail network of Harriman State Park in Rockland County, New York, which is approximately 30 miles north of New York City.

**Trail Accessibility:** The shelter is a key landmark along several well-known hiking routes. It is located at the intersection of the Suffern-Bear Mountain (S-BM) Trail, marked with a distinctive Yellow blaze, and the Long Path (Aqua blaze).

**Parking/Trailheads:** A common approach for local day or overnight hikers is to utilize the designated hikers parking lot off Route 106, near the Beaver Pond Campground entrance. From this trailhead, the shelter is approximately a two-mile hike via the S-BM Trail. For those interested in a slightly longer journey with historical sights, the shelter can also be reached by completing the Big Hill and Jackie Jones Mountain Loop, which often includes passing the ORAK mansion ruins and the Jackie Jones fire tower. New Yorkers can reach the park easily by car via the Palisades Interstate Parkway or I-87, offering a reasonably short drive for a profound change of scenery.

**Services Offered (Harriman State Park Trail Shelter System)**

Big Hill Shelter operates under the general rules and regulations for overnight trail shelters within Harriman State Park. It is designed for self-sufficient backpackers and is not a serviced campground in the traditional sense. The shelter is available on a first-come, first-served basis, reinforcing the spirit of communal hiking.

Overnight Accommodations: A stone, three-sided lean-to structure providing basic roofed shelter and a wooden platform for sleeping.
Water Access: Water is not reliably available at the shelter site. Hikers are strongly advised to pack in sufficient water or locate a source "down low, not on the top of the mountain" and treat any collected water from nearby lakes or streams (filtering and/or boiling is necessary).
Waste Management: "Leave No Trace" principles are strictly enforced. Hikers must pack out all trash, and there are no public trash receptacles.
Bear Safety: Like other shelters in Harriman, bear cables or other appropriate food storage systems (such as bear canisters) are necessary for securing food away from wildlife.
Fire Policy: Fires are only permitted in the designated interior fireplaces or the outside fire ring. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own firewood, as local wood near the shelter can be "completely stripped."

**Features / Highlights: History, Trails, and The View**

The Big Hill Shelter’s features are what truly elevate it from a simple stopping point to an unforgettable outdoor destination for New York residents.

Stunning NYC Skyline View: The most celebrated feature is the panoramic vista to the south. On a clear day, visitors are treated to an absolutely amazing view of the New York City skyline in the distance, a perfect reminder of the wilderness's proximity to urban life.
Historic Stone Structure: The shelter, built in 1927, is one of several rustic, beautiful stone lean-tos in Harriman State Park, representing a significant piece of local trail history and craftsmanship.
Dual Fireplaces: The shelter boasts two interior fireplaces, which are a highly appreciated amenity for cooking, warmth, and creating a cozy, memorable atmosphere, especially during colder seasons.
Connectivity to Major Trails: It is a critical stop on the Long Path (which begins near the George Washington Bridge in the Heights and heads to the Adirondacks) and the Suffern-Bear Mountain Trail, making it an essential point for local thru-hikers.
Proximity to Other Local Landmarks: The hike to the shelter often passes or is near historical and natural points of interest, including the remains of the ORAK mansion, the Jackie Jones Mountain Fire Tower, and occasionally, the site of an old plane crash, adding a "fascinating piece of history to the hike."
High-Elevation Campout: Situated on Big Hill, the "mountaintoppy" location provides an open, airy feel, distinct from valley camping, with beautiful surrounding grassy and open areas suitable for tent setup (adhering to the 300-foot-from-shelter rule if the shelter is occupied).

**Contact Information (The Shelter is a Wilderness Site)**

As a wilderness trail shelter, Big Hill Shelter does not have its own phone number or direct contact office. All information and regulations fall under the jurisdiction of Harriman State Park and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

**Address (General Area):** Camp Winaki Rd, Stony Point, NY 10980, USA (Access is via marked hiking trails).

**For Emergency & Park Information:** In case of emergency while in Harriman State Park, hikers should contact the Park Police. For general information on trail conditions, regulations, and park advisories, consult the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference and the official NY State Parks website for Harriman State Park.

**Conclusion: Why Big Hill Shelter is Suitable for Local New Yorkers**

For anyone living in the New York metropolitan area, the Big Hill Shelter in Harriman State Park is an unparalleled resource for outdoor adventure. It is the perfect venue for an authentic backpacking experience that is remarkably close to home, offering a profound sense of escape without the logistical headache of traveling long distances. The short drive time, coupled with the immediate immersion into a challenging, well-maintained trail system, makes it uniquely suitable for a quick weekend getaway. It provides local hikers with an unmatched sense of accomplishment—following the Long Path from the city’s edge all the way to this historic shelter. With its incredible view of the NYC skyline—the very city you are escaping—the Big Hill Shelter serves as a powerful reminder that true wilderness and stunning natural beauty are available just a short distance from your doorstep. It’s an essential part of New York’s local outdoor heritage, offering a friendly, well-documented, and thoroughly enjoyable adventure for all skill levels.