"The Potash Mountain climb is a short but fairly challenging hike, ending in a beautiful view looking west. The trailhead starts from a gravel parking lot on Potash Road just north of route 9N. The hike to the top is 1.8 miles with an elevation gain of 960 feet. At a leisurely pace, expect to take about an hour. The first .6 miles are a simple uphill walk in dense shade and easy footing. Unless it's very dry, you will cross a short bridge over a small creek. Around mile .75 and for the rest of the climb you will have to watch your step. (look out for the "shark rock" somewhere along the way. I have included a photo)For a while it's a rock stairway, no arms needed. After the first mile, and for most of the rest of the climb, it is more of a rock scramble, with some sections quite steep and requiring both arms and legs to progress. At mile 1.4 the trail goes parallel to the slope for a bit and you get your first views. Then back to steeper slopes, rocks, and narrow paths. You are almost there when you see the white sign that gives you the option of two routes to the summit. Note that the actual summit gives you no views, it's kind of in the trees. You will find your way to a large rock section and be rewarded with an expansive view. If you’re climbing this on a humid day with gnats and mosquitoes, you’ll be absolutely refreshed and relieved when you get to the top. There is an abrupt change in the climate, with a cooling wind and no bugs! Also look for blueberries. I think July/August is their time. Not very big, but obviously fresh. Going back down is in some ways harder than the climb up. Tougher on the joints as you fight gravity with every step. Really watch your footing, and some spots go down backwards on all fours. It's best to have a walking stick, especially on the way down. This area is part of the Harris Land Preserve. I have supplied photos of the sign that explains it. Harris' Grocery in "beautiful downtown Fourth Lake" was the store owned by Alice Harris. Under new management now, but keeping the local small town vibe alive with great sandwiches and the usual general store supplies."

Michael Maclaga

"Nice hike! Most of the hike is fairly easy on the well built trail. Once you get close to the top it becomes a bit steeper. However, even this part of the hike has "rock stairs" to help. Watchout for some ledges! Trail is well marked. Hike is about 1.5 miles. Nice views of the surrounding area and mountains at or near the top. If in the area try this hike. Also, seems to receive much less traffic than some other nearby hikes."

Ryan Mazierski

"Easy to find on Potash Rd. Large gravel parking area. Entry is marked with Harris Nature Preserve sign. Relatively easy hike/walk at the start that could be fun for a trail run. Then you reach the signs and the real hike begins. I am a bit afraid of heights and the top parts of this hike are narrow climbing over boulders and roots at the edge. Not sure I would bring little ones unless they hiked regularly? My feet slipped more than usual on uphill and downhill. Loamy areas without rocks and roots. When I took my socks off later, my toes were caked with dirt. Wear your hikers or sneakers with good tread. Glad I sprayed my legs and sneakers from knee down with tick repellant. Small shrubs, plants do hit your legs, but not excessively. Small blueberry patch near the top. Was a true mountain hike towards the top with sharp switchbacks over rocks that required me to use my hands for a bit to grab rocks and trees. Didn't get pics of that. The cell phone was packed away once that part of the climb started. Felt as steep as Hadley/Spruce, but more wild and no where near as long. The brightly colored ribbons were helpful, but trail path is established. Great view from top. We hiked it in 1 hour and 40 mins with 15 minutes at top. Saw just three other people there on a Thursday afternoon."

K Neddo