Hopkins/Mossy Cascade trail?

[adkayaker]

With several approaches to Hopkins and the start of this one along 73 with no formal parking, not sure how well used and maintained this trail is, especially right now.

Is this trail well marked, especially with the guidebook-described routing along roads and around homes? Going this weekend if it is an ok trail.

 

[rhihn]

With several approaches to Hopkins and the start of this one along 73 with no formal parking, not sure how well used and maintained this trail is, especially right now.

Is this trail well marked, especially with the guidebook-described routing along roads and around homes? Going this weekend if it is an ok trail.

Trailhead (from guidebook): "...Rt. 73 just S of the steel-sided bridge over the East Branch Ausable River 2.0 mi S of Keene Valley). There is room on the east side of the road for several cars. There is, or used to be, a green and white sign saying "Hopkins Trail" or something like that. I don't know its current condition, but it's a very popular trail, and every time I've taken it it's always in excellent condition, well marked, and easy to follow. You'll see the homes, etc. at first (stay on trail and you're legal), then they will disappear. Superb views on the summit on a good day (180 degrees) and LOTS of blueberries (may be early for these).

Mossy Cascade is beautiful when flowing. It's a short quarter mile side trail near the beginning of your hike, a little rougher than the main trail but easy to follow. Look for the sign to it, off to the left, about a half mile or so into your hike.

 

[BlackSpruce]

Both trails to Hopkins from route 73 are well marked, well travelled and in great shape. The best if you have two cars is to make the loop. Right now Mossy Cascade is rather dry and if you are looking for a deep into the woods kind of place house near Mossy Cascade is for sale!