Best Hikes: Hunter Mountain via Becker Hollow & Devil’s Path
There are many ways up the Catskill’s second-highest summit. Ranging from moderate to difficult makes reaching the fire tower views doable for most people. With a horse trail and handicap ramp for mounting and dismounting, it gives the trip another dimension. Even though this writer has read criticism in forums about the safety for horses on the steeper sections of the trail, it does offer an opportunity that no other high peak in New York…
5 family and kid friendly hikes in the Catskills
What makes a hike great for young families? In our experience, it’s the small things. No really, small things. Bugs, cool plants, frogs, caves, water, and some views. Easier the better. Small children don’t care about peak bagging. They’re into simple fun. One of the best things you can do for your young hiker is let them hike. Pick hikes that your child can walk on their own, at least part of the way. Carry them…
Best Hikes: The Catskill’s Escarpment Trail from Colgate Lake
The Escarpment Trail is one of the Catskills longest and most scenic paths. Following the Catskill escarpment above the Hudson Valley is exhilarating. Backpacking the entire 23.9 miles from Scutt Road to the trailhead at Rt 23 or the reverse, makes for an outstanding 3-day outing. However if you only have 2 days there are other options. One option as we did on this trip is to enter the Escarpment Trail from Colgate Lake. The…
What to Think About Before Using a Lean-To or Back-Country Shelter
In New York’s Catskill and Adirondack park camping in a lean-to can be a great experience. I’ve had some of my best experiences camping in these shelters. Meeting new people, seeing wildlife, the freedom of not pitching my tent, the warmth of the fire in the shelter, and the sense of history as some of these shelters have been around since the early 1900’s. It has its roots in days before tents were used and…
Best Hikes: Day Hiking Hunter Mountain on the Spruceton Trail
Place among the Catskill 35 High Peaks: 2nd Difficulty rating: Moderate to Strenuous depending on the route Elevation: 4040 feet above sea level. Interesting Features: Historic Fire Tower & Observers Cabin, Ski Lift to Colonels Chair Trailhead, Devils Tombstone, and First growth in Becker Hollow & small section on Colonels Chair Trail (last remaining on Hunter!) Best time to visit: Anytime Trail-head: Spruceton Road, West Kill, NY 12492 –GPS: 42°11’02.9″N 74°16’18.0″W Hunter Mountain Hike Log November 2012 This…