Take A Hike: Experience the ‘Wolf Moon’ Atop The Palisades

The ‘Wolf Moon,’ or the January full moon, gets its name from Algonquin Indian legend. Experience it for yourself on a guided hike led by Palisades Interstate Park staff Jan. 22.

PALISADES INTERSTATE PARK, N.J.—This 12 mile long along the Hudson River, from Fort Lee to Alpine, is sponsoring guided hiking tours this winter.

“The tours provide a chance for area residents to get to know this National Historic and Natural Landmark in Bergen County, which has over 30 miles of hiking trails within its borders,” park staff told Northern Valley Press.

The staff-guided hikes will be held “drizzle or shine” and are free and open to all, with advance registration not required. Hikers should wear sturdy shoes for the sometimes rugged terrain in the Park.

Hikes are planned for Jan. 22, Feb. 2 and March 3.

‘Wolf Moon’

On Tuesday evening, Jan. 22, park staff will lead a special night hike through the trails at the State Line Lookout area. Hikers should plan to meet at the Lookout, accessible from the northbound Palisades Interstate Parkway at Exit 3 (a U-Turn is available for southbound travelers), at 7 p.m. If the skies are clear, the trails will be lit by the full moon, but hikers should nevertheless bring flashlights with them. The route will traverse about two miles in about 1.5 hours, over moderate hiking trails.

The January full moon is known as the “Wolf Moon,” an Algonquin Indian name given it because, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, “it appeared when wolves howled in hunger outside the villages.”

To confirm if weather is questionable on the morning of this hike, or if trails may be too icy to conduct the hike, call (201) 768-1360 and enter ext. 108.

—Photo by Palisades Interstate Park Commission