HAYCOCK

By Char Fetterolf

Bucks County's gallant Haycock Mountain dominates one's view from the nearby land. It's summit soars over the sunny shores of Lake Nockamixon, and hundreds of the highest quality boulders call it's sweeping slopes home.

So where are all the boulderers? Maybe it has something to do with the treacherous woodlands that accompany these slopes. Woodlands so vast and treacherous that they host a plethora of poisonous plants and neon spiders that weave ten pound test webs. In addition to these hazards, the boulder problems feature serrated talus under towering expanses of rock.

Surely anyone bold enough to journey into these woods and climb upon these rocks should be considered an American hero. These brave few are rewarded with some of the best darn rocks under the sun. This gift to climbers is called Diabase. This limited vein of rock stretches from central New Jersey to south central Pennsylvania and encompasses Cradle rock, Sourland nature preserve, Haycock, Green lane, Mt. Gretna, Governor Stables and Devils Den. Unfortunately, about half of the areas listed are closed due to access issues. Haycock's status as state game lands is a great thing for responsible climbers. The park rangers appreciate our use of the land, and respect our efforts to maintain it. They ask that we stay safe and treat the land respectfully. Mark trails with cairns and line them with logs. Pack out trash and park only in designated areas. It's imperative that we follow these simple guidelines to preserve access for future generations.