New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced the completion of a new 1,800-foot connector trail in the Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County, on Long Island between the Ridge Pine Barrens State Forest and the Paumanok Path.
The connector trail links the popular Ridge Interpretive Trail to the 125-mile Paumanok Path between from Rocky Point to Montauk Point State Park. It was created by DEC Operations staff and the veteran-led humanitarian organization Team Rubicon.
During a recent First Day Hike at the Ridge Barrens State Forest, a participant mentioned how close (approximately one-third of a mile) the Ridge Interpretive Trail is to the Paumanok Path.
DEC determined a connector trail was feasible and began drafting plans. In early 2024, DEC staff flagged the best route to give hikers a quick connection to the Paumanok Path and requested Team Rubicon’s assistance to complete the project.
DEC Operations staff laid the initial path and removed old fallen fencing and logs and added new trail markers. Team Rubicon then completed the path, widening it to approximately six feet across using various hand tools.
Team Rubicon has been partnering with DEC on Long Island since 2021. The international not-for-profit disaster response organization has conducted numerous exercises at DEC properties, including chainsaw training, southern pine beetle suppression, and horse trail improvements at DEC’s Rocky Point Pine Barrens State Forest.
Prior to the new connector trail, the Ridge Pine Barrens State Forest included three marked trails of varying distances where hikers could explore 184 acres of mixed wooded and open habitats. A three-mile interpretive trail helps guide hikers and describe the types of habitats and wildlife they might encounter.
The Paumanok Path is a 125-mile hiking path that starts at DEC’s Rocky Point Pine Barrens State Forest and meanders through various state and county lands until it eventually ends in Montauk Downs State Park.
Due to the length of the Paumanok Path, most hikers do not attempt the whole journey in a single trek, therefore it is important to have numerous connections to the path where individuals can park and connect.
Photo: Members of Team Rubicon assist DEC Staff in constructing the connector trail (provided).
