Here’s an easy-moderate outing to get hiking into the new year. A four-mile loop, this hike is expected to last between three to four hours depending on conditions. The route features tranquil pine and hemlock forests, a lean-to at the halfway point, and a beaver pond. Participants need to bring lunch or snacks, water/drink, layered winter clothing, snowshoes, microspikes, poles (optional), winter hiking shoes, and gaiters.

Registration is required by January 2, and space is limited to 12 people. To register, contact Al Purdy at Albertpurdy1@aol.com or (845) 514-0919. Note, dogs are not permitted on this hike. Be prepared for unpredictable travel and trail conditions. Severe weather will postpone the hike.

Directions to trailhead: From NYS Thruway Exit 19 Kingston, turn right onto Route 28 west for 34.9 miles. Turn left onto route 49a at Highmount/ the Belleayre Ski Center and follow for 5.4 miles to its end. Turn left onto Route 49 Dry Brook Road for 1.3 miles. Turn right onto Mill Brook Road for 6.4 miles and turn left into the Kelly Hollow Parking Area.

From Route 28 west/ Andes, after entering the Catskill Park and crossing the East Branch of the Delaware River, turn right across of the old stone schoolhouse. Turn immediately right again, following the brown and white wayfinding signs, for 3.75 miles and then turn left on Millbrook Road. Continue for 5.4 miles, and the trailhead is on the right (it’s the second entrance to the Kelly Hollow area).  

GPS coordinates for Kelly Hollow Trailhead: 42.07897, - 74.65076

Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XFXq1SneEgVSLkH29