Balsam Mountain from Rider Hollow | Thursday, May 31, 10:00 AM

With great rewards for the effort, this is one of the most representative hikes of the Catskills. The relatively short loop takes in lovely streams, waterfalls, huge hemlocks, some steep and rocky terrain, and a tremendous vista.Event Duration:  5.1 miles, 5 hoursLevel of Difficulty:  Moderate-DifficultLeaders: John Exter and Jeff DitchekBring: good hiking shoes, lunch, snacks, bug repellant, plenty to drink, map and compass (recommended),Registration required by May 29.  Register by contacting the leader. See below.Group size is limited to 12, so register early.Dogs allowed:  NoAdditional Information: If water is running high, be prepared for fording the stream. Waterproof boots, supplementary water shoes or heavy duty garbage bags that can be cinched above the knees will make for a more comfortable hike.Questions about this event can be directed to: Jeff at jiditchek@gmail.comDriving Directions:  From SR 28 in Highmount, turn south onto Galli-Curci Rd. which becomes Todd Mountain Rd. Go about 4.9 miles to Rider Hollow Rd. and turn left/southeast. Drive to the Rider Hollow P.A. at the end of the road.From SR 28 in Arkville, turn south onto Dry Brook Rd. and travel 4.7 miles to Todd Mountain Rd. Turn left/east and go .5 mile to Rider Hollow Rd. Turn right/southeast to the Rider Hollow P.A. at the end of the road.