Grant Nawoichyk, a long time West Point Boy Scout completed his Eagle Scout Project on June 11, 2014. The project formalized the “Trail of the Fallen” on the Timp-Torne Mountain. The trail originates at the top of Mine Road and is the place where the large mound of stones have been carried up and placed in memory of soldiers who have died in recent military conflicts. Grant wanted to honor our fallen soldiers by rehabilitating the trail and formalizing the memorial which had been recognized on numerous hiking sites. The Eagle Scout Project required that he receive formal approval from the Palisades Park Commission. The extent of Grant’s Eagle Project is detailed in his “Trail Of the Fallen Revitalization Project“.
Grant demonstrated superior leadership skills as he proceeded to gather volunteers and raise over $5000 to complete the project. One of the many challenges he faced was getting the heavy memorial benches (400 pounds each) up to the top of the mountain and bolting them in place. The project was made successful by the over 2000 man hours that were dedicated by Grant, Troop 23 and many other volunteers. The result is a new Trailhead Kiosk that marks the entrance of the trail, a clearly marked trail and two beautiful marble benches at the site of the current memorial. The benches honor two fallen West Point Graduates and service members who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. One of the benches honors Major Thomas Kennedy and the other honors 1LT Daren M. Hidalgo.
Directions for getting to the trailhead are as follows: From Palisades Interstate Parkway (Route 6), turn north on Route 9W. You enter the town of Ft. Montgomery. After crossing the bridge over Popolopen Creek take the first left (small shopping mart at corner) onto Firefighters Memorial Drive and then the second right onto Mine Road. Follow Mine Road for just over a mile to the trailhead and small parking area at the base of Popolopen Torne. The trailhead is located right next to a beautiful wood home.
Warning: Ensure you wear hiking boots or sneakers to hike this trail.