Mt. Pisgah Conservation Area, Winthrop

If you didn’t know the reference already, Pisgah (which means “lookout” in Hebrew) is the name of the spot on Mt. Nebo where Moses stands when he sees the promised lands. But he didn’t have to climb a scary decommissioned fire tower to accomplish this, unlike hikers to this little Pisgah. If you are not scared of heights and can climb the 60-foot tower on the mountain summit, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view. (It’s actually not too bad; it feels quite stable and safe.)

The hike up Blueberry Trail, a 2.2-mile loop, is easy and gradual, with an elevation gain of about 330 feet. On a nice weekend, expect to see a good number of people at this popular little mountain. (There were several people enjoying cigarettes at the top when I visited. Funny combo of hobbies!) The summit, which does not offer views, does have open ledges for picnicking. There is also an additional 1.3-mile loop trail around the summit. When I hiked this trail, called Ledges Trail, I didn’t see any views and only one place that could be called a ledge. But maybe views open up in winter?

Note: The parking lot is plowed in the winter.

Directions: From Route 133 in Wayne turn south onto Fairbanks Road. At the end, turn left onto the Mt. Pisgah Road. Travel south about 1.7 miles – the parking lot is on the left. From Route 202, turn onto North Main Street and go into North Monmouth. After about 0.7 mile, turn right on New Road, which becomes Mt. Pisgah Road. Continue for approximately 1.6 miles – the parking lot is on the right.