(A. Purdy)

Here’s a challenging route that may especially appeal to hikers looking to complete the Catskills All Trails Challenge. Rated as difficult, this ten-mile outing is expected to take about eight hours, depending on trail conditions. The route will include the Mongaup-Hardenburgh, Long Pond-Beaverkill Ridge, and Mongaup-Willowemoc Trails.

Participants need to bring lunch/ snacks, water/ drink, warm layers, rain gear, sturdy hiking shoes, a head lamp, and insect repellent. Depending on trail conditions, micro-spikes may also be needed. Hiking poles are optional. Note, this hike is limited to 12 people, and hikers must register by April 17. Register by contacting Al Purdy at Albertpurdy1@aol.com or (845) 514-0919. Also note, dogs are not permitted on this hike; and poor weather conditions will postpone the hike..

Directions to Monguaup Pond main/ beach parking lot: From NYS Thruway Exit 19/ Kingston, turn right onto Route 28 for 30.4 miles. Turn left onto County Highway 47 in Big Indian and proceed 19.3 miles. Turn sharp right onto Pole Road (also becomes Willowemoc Road and known as Pond Rd.) and go 9.4 miles. Turn right onto Mongaup Road and proceed 3.9 miles, passing the gate and parking in the main/ beach parking lot.

From NYS Route 17 westbound, take exit 96W and turn left onto DeBruce Road. Continue on DeBruce Road 5.6 miles to Mongaup Road. Turn left onto Mongaup Road and proceed 3.9 miles, passing the gate and parking in the main/ beach parking lot.

From NYS Route 17 eastbound, take exit 96E and turn right at the end of the exit. Proceed .1 mile to stop sign, turn left, then take the next left onto DeBruce Rd. You will soon see a "red caboose" on left. Continue on DeBruce Road 5.6 miles to Mongaup Road. Turn left onto Mongaup Road and proceed 3.9 miles, passing the gate and parking in the main/ beach parking lot. 

GPS coordinates of meeting location: 41.95829, -74.69113

Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/hV8Sjuciv3RFLpai7