This 13-mile, challenging and difficult hike will summit four high peaks and include fun scrambles, spectacular views, and 4300’ of elevation gain. We will move at a moderate pace (about 1.5mph moving speed). Hikers need to bring water/ sports drink (recommended 1 to 2 liters), lunch/ snacks, sturdy water-resistant boots with good traction, proper/ layered clothing, a headlamp and extra batteries (we may finish after dark); gaiters and hiking poles are recommended. We will take short breaks but not stop for a long lunch.

This hike is limited to 12 people and registration is required. To register, contact Marv Freedman at marvfreedman@gmail.com by May 22. Please include your cell number in your registration request. Dogs are permitted with the permission of the event leader. Note: 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 two to four days before the hike. We will meet at 8:30 am at the primitive DEP parking area on the north side of Big Hollow Road.

Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/UD7uwedNygiJp6ao6  

GPS: 42.293198, -74.145276

Driving: From NYS Thruway (87) Saugerties/ Exit 20, turn right on 32 North for six miles and keep straight onto NY-32A. Take NY-32A for 0.6 miles, bear left onto NY-23A. Take Route 23A for 5.5 mi. and turn right onto Co. Hwy 25.  At 2.8 mi. stay right onto Co. Hwy 23C; in another four miles turn right onto Co. Hwy 40. Take Co. Hwy 40 for 1.9 miles. Turn right onto Co. Hwy 56 (Big Hollow Rd.) and proceed 2.6 miles and the parking area is on the left.

From NYS Thruway to Catskill (Exit 21), take a left out of the NYS Thruway entrance road. Go approximately 1/4 mile Take a right onto Route 23 West. Go approximately around 21.5 miles on Route 23. Take a left onto County Rt 65 (Main Care Gas Station on Right - Condos on left). Go approximately 0.7 miles on Route 65. Take left onto Rt 65A. Go approximately 0.3 miles on Rt 65A .Continue Straight onto Rt 40 after stop sign. Go approximately 1.8 miles on Rt 40. Take a left onto Rt 56 (3-way intersection in Maplecrest). Follow Rt 56 (Big Hollow Road) 2.6 miles and the parking area is on the left.