We'll hike Balsam Mountain (3607') from Rider Hollow at a moderate pace (about 1.5 mph moving pace). Fit beginners are welcome. Rated as moderate-to-difficult, the distance of this outing is five miles, and the duration is about four hours.

Participants need to bring food/ snacks (to be eaten during short breaks, we won't stop for a long lunch), water/ sports drink, hiking poles (recommended), proper clothing with extra layers, and sturdy, water-resistant hiking shoes.

This event is limited to 12 people, so please register early. The registration deadline is December 30. Register by contacting Marv Freedman at marvfreedman@gmail.com Dogs are permitted on this hike with the permission of event leader Marv Freedman.

We'll meet, ready to hike, no later than 8:00 am in the parking area at the end of Rider Hollow Road. Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QojBMgtKp73ASLdB6 

GPS coordinates of meeting location: 42.102062, -74.517349

Driving directions: To reach the Rider Hollow Trailhead from the east, take State Route 28 39 miles west from the traffic circle at Exit 19 (Kingston) of the NYS Thruway to Galli Curci Road at Highmount and turn left. (This is the same turn for the Belleayre Ski Center.) Proceed 4.95 miles on Galli Curci Road (Ulster Co. Hwy 49A) (becomes Todd Mtn. Rd.) and turn left onto Rider Hollow Road. Continue to the end of the road (2.1 mi.) to the trailhead.

From the west, take State Route 28 to Dry Brook Road (1.2 miles east of Margaretville) and turn right, following the signs for Dry Brook Ridge. Take Dry Brook Rd. 4.7 miles and turn left (following signs for Rider Hollow) onto Todd Mountain Road. Continue less than a half mile and turn right onto Rider Hollow Rd. Continue 2.1 miles to the end of the road/ trailhead.

* Meeting place and time, route details, and required gear are subject to change based on weather forecast, trail conditions, etc. Updated information will be provided via email, usually about four days before the hike.