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…
Plateau Mountain in the Winter
Plateau Mountain derives its name from its long summit ridge which is relatively flat. Having said that, it does climb a couple of hundred feet to the summit once you have obtained the ridge climbing from Stony Clove. After fresh snow the upper elevations and long summit ridge of Plateau are excellent. At 3836′ it is the 10th highest peak in the Catskills and second tallest on Devil’s Path. There are three ways to the…
Best Hikes: Devil’s Path Backpacking Traverse
One of the Catskill’s most visited and dramatic trails is Devil’s Path. It can make an unforgettable multi-day backpacking experience. It can also be broken down into loops for several nice overnight trips using connector/access trails. The name can be traced to early settlers who thought the Catskill’s were host to the devil. The Devil’s Path mountains were said to be formed by the devil slapping its tail and creating the steep gaps between peaks.…