CT Appalachian Trail - Section 4 - Calebs Peak to Stewart Hollow Shelter

December 1, 2013

Miles: 7.3
Time: 3 hours 54 minutes

Parking: Park on River Road, 1.6 miles from where it intersects with Skiff Mountain Road. 

The AT joins River Road here.

This is a narrow gravel road with very few cars on it.

There is room for around 4 cars at this parking area. 

There is another larger parking area at the end of the road.

Map: Appalachian Trail Guide to Massachusetts Connecticut

Hike directions: We did this as by starting in the middle and doing an out and back to each point (we only had one car).

From the parking area, head south to St Johns Ledges. 

This is a steep rock scramble up.

There is a sign at St Johns Ledges with a view of the Housatonic River

After this, the climb is easier.

Continue south to Caleb's Peak which also has a view of the river.

Return back to the parking area.

Now, continue on the AT northbound, walking along the gravel River Road.

This part is very easy hiking.

Pass by another parking area at the end of River Road, and continue past a gate.

Walk along next to the Housatonic River on your right.

Continue until you reach a blue blazed trail on your left which takes you to the shelter.

Retrace your steps back to the parking area.

Year to date miles: 382.3

AT sign at parking area.

A steep rock scramble, where you have to sometimes use your hands.
The slippery leaves made it particularly challenging.

Stone steps helping to make for an easier climb.

The end of the rock scramble

View from St Johns Ledges
Rock climbing is popular here in the summer.

Arriving at Caleb's Peak

Back down to the car on River Road. Now starts the easy riverside portion of the hike.

The Housatonic. We didn't let the dogs go swimming.
It isn't ideal for swimming - the current looks pretty strong in places, and the river is contaminated with PCB's from GE.

The end of River Road.
The trail continues past the gate.

Our turnaround spot.
There are tent sites and a shelter here.