Van Slyke Castle

Van Slyke Castle is a historic castle that stands on a steep peak in the Ramapo Mountains. This place is a great destination for hiking, and there are many trails leading to it. It is located in Wanaque, NJ 07465.  There are also ruins that are accessible from the site.

The property was formerly owned by the Porter family, and was built in the early twentieth century. It is now part of the Ramapo Mountain State Forest. Visitors can explore its ruins, as well as its lake and stream. If you have a good pair of hiking shoes, there is no reason not to enjoy this place. Whether you’re looking for a moderate or strenuous hike, there’s something for everyone at this location.

As the name implies, the Van Slyke Castle loop trail is the most popular route. The trail is a bit rocky at times, but is fairly easy to follow. During the trek, visitors will be rewarded with a view of the New York City skyline from a viewpoint. Afterward, they can explore the ruins of the old water tower.

Van Slyke Castle was originally known as Foxcroft. The ruins of the castle are located in the Ramapo Mountain State Forest. Previously, it was the estate of a wealthy New York stockbroker. When he died in 1911, his widow left him one and a half million dollars. Her name was Ruth A. Coles. During the 1950s, the couple resold the estate to a couple. However, the couple abandoned it after only a few years. In the early twenty-first century, the mansion became vacant again.

Although it looks like a castle from the outside, it is actually a ruined ruin. You can see the exterior of the castle, as well as the ruins of the water tower, from this vantage point. From here, visitors can get a glimpse of the wealth that once belonged to the Van Slyke family.

Although Van Slyke Castle is no longer occupied, it is still a fantastic place to explore. Besides the ruins, visitors will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the New York City skyline.

Visitors can also take a walk along the shoreline of Rampo Lake, which is a 120-acre lake that sits right below the castle. A loop around the lake can be done, which gives visitors a scenic view. Another option is to hike the Castle Point Trail. Unlike the Loop Trail, the trail offers a broader view. Throughout the loop, you’ll encounter a wide variety of interesting textures and colors. Click here

Although the vandals burnt down the mansion in 1959, visitors can still see the ruins of the building. Originally, the castle was a place of luxury and beauty. During its heyday, it had an indoor pool, grand stone walls, archways, and other features. But when the couple had a bitter divorce, the castle was left empty.

After being abandoned for nine years, the Van Slyke Castle finally got sold. Eventually, it was sold to a couple named Suzanne Christie. She and her husband stayed at the mansion for only a short time before they decided to sell the property. Find out more