What to know when tackling the Paumanok Path

Christopher Duckworth, a 16-year-old Boy Scout from Islip, completed one of Long Island’s most ambitious hikes on July 19: eastern Long Island’s 125-mile Paumanok Path.

Since September, Duckworth and fellow members of Islip-based Troop 370 have tackled the path in 10 segments, each hike building confidence, endurance and a connection to the territory beneath their boots.

“I found that the scenery became increasingly more impressive as we hiked toward Montauk,” said Duckworth, who cited Hither Hills State Park and the final stretch in Montauk Point as highlights. “Hiking along the Paumanok has taught me a lot about the history of Long Island. We stumbled upon the site of an old Colonial building and even an abandoned cemetery with graves predating most of American history.”

Only a handful have completed the full trail in one go (ultrarunner Joe Denny did it in six days in 2016). For most, hiking in stages like Duckworth did is the way to go. “Break it into sections,” he advised. “You can relax and just focus on enjoying the passing scenery.”

Spanning from Rocky Point in Brookhaven Town to the eastern tip of Montauk, the Paumanok Path meanders through dense pine barrens, farmland, state forests and seaside bluffs. While hikers may occasionally cross a road or power line corridor, much of the route is uninterrupted woodland. A full map can be difficult to find online, although portions can be navigated using the All Trails app, which offers paid and free versions for users, and the path is marked with trail blazes.

The path wasn’t created under one grand vision, said David Reisfield, president of the Long Island Greenbelt Trail Conference, a hiking advocacy group.

“We connected existing trail systems and improved some deer paths,” he said. “Over time, three local organizations took responsibility for maintenance.”

Those organizations include the Greenbelt Trail Conference, East Hampton Trails Preservation Society and Southampton Trails Preservation Society, each stewarding different sections with volunteers and private donations.

As for first-timers, expect quietness on the otherwise busy island. “There are stretches on the path with six or seven miles of nothing but woods,” Reisfield said. “But with a map, tick spray and a little prep, you will see a whole different side of Long Island.”