High Point State Park Highlights

After parking in the large Appalachian Trail Parking Lot (41.302618, -74.667270) take the AT Connector Trail (Blue) and Iris Trail to the Appalachian Trail (headed north). About a half a mile into the journey, the AT crosses a 2 lane road (Route 23), and it isn't readily apparent where it picks up on the other side. Look for a 3-4 foot wooden AT symbol staked into the grass on a small hill across the street, and you can't go wrong.Follow the AT until the overall 1.6-mile mark and continue straight onto Monument Trail, and up a steep incline. Monument Trail also branches off to the left, but keep this spot in mind as you'll return to it on you way back to the trailhead. At the top of the incline stands High Point Monument, a war memorial constructed in the 1920s which is open to the public to ascend 220 feet to its viewing room at the top.Continue on Monument Trail until the overall 3.5-mile mark;this section is mostly level and mostly singletrack, with some moderate views off to the east at times. There is a junction here, with a very obvious trail spur that leads to the Cedar Swamp Trail loop, which can be completed either direction. The trail is very level and wide as a road, and this is a special place that follows through dense forests and crosses an open boggy area on a boardwalk. A myriad of interesting plants can be seen throughout this loop. After completing the loop, head back onto Monument Trail (heading left) where it links back with the Appalachian Trail at the approximate 6.2-mile mark. The trail is generally flat in this area with one moderate incline;it also has some sporadic views to the west at times and passes through a nice area of spruce pine and has a small creek crossing.Once back at the AT, retrace your steps to the parking lot.