Join CMC for a seven-mile round-trip hike to West Kill Mountain from Diamond Notch. In partnership with NYSDEC we continue the tradition of welcoming the new year with a Catskill Mountain hike. This challenging trail route will take us to the summit of West Kill (3880’) and the nearby lookout points. With an elevation gain of 1785 feet, this hike is rated as difficult and is expected to take five-to-six hours. Participants should be prepared for wintery trail conditions and bring microspikes and snowshoes, as applicable. Hikers should be experienced in cold weather mountain outings and will need to bring proper gear and supplies, including layered and extra clothing, sturdy warm boots, gaiters, sunglasses, as well as food/ snacks, and water/ beverage/ thermos. We will pause at Buck Ridge Lookout for lunch.

The hike is limited to 12 participants and registration is required. Please register by December 30 by contacting Peter@catskillmountainclub.org or (607) 832-4413. Extreme weather or trail conditions will cancel. Dogs are not permitted on this hike.

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 trailhead 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 trailhead on the right, almost to the end of the road. Note, this parking lot 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; that is a snow plow turnaround.

Diamond Notch Parking Lot GPS Coordinates: 42.18240 -74.26955