This hike will take you to the summit of the Catskills’ second highest peak and the 360-degree view from its historic fire tower. Hikers will also visit the Colonel’s Chair, reached by a spur trail on the north side of the mountain. This side trip may be especially appealing to those looking to complete the Catskills All Trails Challenge. Rated as difficult, this outing will cover 10.5 miles in about eight hours.
Participants need to bring lunch/ snacks, water/ sports drink, sturdy hiking shoes, clothing layers, rain gear, microspikes, headlamp (and batteries), and hiking poles are recommended. This hike is limited to 12 people, and registration is required. To register, contact Al Purdy at Albertpurdy1@aol.com or (845) 514-0919 by November 20. Please note, dogs are not permitted on this hike; and poor weather conditions will postpone the hike. Also note, hunting season is in effect, so hikers need to wear bright orange.
Directions: From NYS Thruway Exit 19 (Kingston) merge onto NY 28 west for 27.6 miles. Then take State Route 42 north for 7.3 miles then turn right on County Hwy 6 (Spruceton Road) in West Kill and take this road 6.8 miles to the parking area on the right, almost to the end of the road.
From State Route 23A at Lexington, take State Route 42 south for 4.1 miles then turn left on County Hwy 6 (Spruceton Road) in West Kill and take this road 6.8 miles to the parking area on the right, almost to the end of the road.
Note, this parking lot (where we’ll meet) is on the right just past the Spruceton Trail Parking Lot (which is on the left). Do not park at the end of the road.
Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xAE9ZJPgZJu2xbwf6
Diamond Notch Parking Lot, GPS Coordinates: 42.18240 -74.26955
Additional Information: We will hike in a counterclockwise direction. We will hike to one high peak and complete three trails for the CMC All Trails Challenge: Hunter Mountain Trail, Spruceton Trail, and Colonels Chair Trail, along with part of the Devil's Path. Poor weather conditions could postpone the hike.