This beautiful hike in Chester Township runs along the scenic Black River, starting off by a historic gristmill, following an abandoned railroad grade for part of the way and passing through a spectacular rocky gorge.  With its contrasting sections of moderate terrain followed by the more challenging descent/ascent through the gorge, this hike is a great way to work off those chocolate bunnies you may have fallen victim to during April!  After the hike the group may go out for drinks and a late lunch.

Member Cost:
$5 for the first 5
$10 for the next 6 to 25
$20 at the door

Non-Member Cost:
$20 online and at the door.

Tickets:
There are a limited number of Tickets for sale. Tickets are not mailed, but your name will be kept at the door. All sales are final.

Specs:
The hike is classified as moderate due to length and some uphill and downhill spots.
The total length of the hike will be about 6.5 miles. 
We will walk at a moderate pace.
The hike should take 3.5 - 4 hours.
As with any spring hike, sections of the trail may be muddy.
As with all hikes you must be in good, athletic shape.

Sweeper:
If the group size is larger than 10,  we are going to look for a volunteer to act as a sweeper. Sweepers will walk at the end of the hike line and will make sure the group stays together.

Hike Leader:
Keira will be leading this hike.

What to bring:
Hiking boots and at least 2 liters of water (required).
We will stop for a light lunch/snack at the gorge so we recommend you bring something to eat. 
We also recommend tissues, plastic bags for garbage, and similar items.

Inclement Weather:
Heavy precipitation will cancel this hike; drizzle will not. Please check your inbox for updates and the NJYP.org calendar. Tickets will be refunded.

Finding the Group:
Meet in the parking lot PROMPTLY at 10:30.  Please allow extra travel time as many of these parks are harder to find. This hike will start on time.

Directions:
Via Google Maps - http://goo.gl/maps/IIW2

From Southern Points: From I-287 North, take Exit 22B to merger onto US 202/US 206 North toward Bedminster.  In 1.3 miles, keep left on US 206 North.  Continue 8.8 miles on US 206 North into Chester.  Turn left onto West Main Street/County Route 513 (formerly designated as N.J. Route 24) and follow it for 1.2 miles to the entrance to Cooper Mill Park, on the left side of the road.  (The Old Mill Tavern is directly across from the parking lot on the right side of the road.)

From Northern Points: Take I- 80 West to Exit 27A and continue south on US Route 206 for 8.0 miles. Turn right onto County Route 513 (formerly designated as N.J. Route 24) and follow it for 1.2 miles to the entrance to Cooper Mill Park, on the left side of the road.

Useful links:
http://www.njhiking.com/best_hikes_in_nj_black_river.php
http://morrisparks.net/aspparks/coopermillmain.asp