Leisurely West Palisades/Akers Mill

We will descend to the river from the parking lot on a somewhat rooty trail.  We will first go north along the river trail until the trail ends and then go south on the river trail until the trail ends.  We will then retrace our route back up to the parking lot.  We will have beautiful views along the river and hopefully the mountain laurel will still be in bloom.  There are some narrow places on the trails and it may be muddy in places.  Hiking poles are recommended. The total elevation is about 200 feet and total distance about 2 miles.  Our pace will be leisurely and we will stop for photos if desired.

NOTE:  This entrance to West Palisades is off of Akers Mill Road.   Look for the apartments with the huge water wheel out front on Akers Mill Road. That's where you turn in.  There is a very small sign indicating the trailhead is here but it is easy to miss, so just trust that you're in the right place. Drive past the apartments to the CRNRA brown sign on the left,   and drive the long, winding road to the very end, where we will be parking. 

There is a $5 parking fee at this location, unless you have an annual pass. Parking passes must be obtained online either in advance or on your smartphone & credit card at the parking lot.  Please allow time to purchase your pass before our 10 am start time.  You can get a pass in advance at  https://www.nps.gov/chat/planyourvisit/fees.htm.

There is no bathroom at the trailhead but there is a bathroom at the river about half a mile after we begin.