Stonetown Circular Trail

This trail is one complete loop hike; however, it does travel along the Highland Trail for half the distance. Starting from the Stowntown Recreation Area, walk out to Stonetown Road and turn left. You have to walk up the road for about a half mile. Stonetown road veers right at Magee Road. Walk down Magee Road and you will see white markers with a red triangle on trees along the road. After crossing a bridge, the trail leaves the road the remainder of the way. The first 4 miles do not have many views.  The trail will join the Highlands Trail after climbing to the top of Harrison Mountain (around the 4 mile mark). The trail descends the mountain and reaches the southern shore of Monksville Reservoir.

After passing the reservoir, the trail crosses Stonetown Road and re-enters the forest. This is the halfway mark of the loop. The remaining section travels over three mountains, Broad, Bear and Windbeam. It is the most difficult and has steep ascents and descents, but they are relatively short.  This section also offers the best views during this hike. After descending the last section of Windbeam Mountain, the Stonetown Circular Trail turns off the Highlands Trail. The trail parallels Stonetown Road until it exits the forest after rounding a swamp area. Cross the road and back to the parking area.