Saturday, June 22, 9:30 AM - Balsam Mountain

We'll hike a loop route over Balsam, following trails that border and cross the Rider Hollow and Mine Hollow streams and ascend through ancient hemlocks and steep scrambles to the Catskill Divide. We'll visit a stunning view of the Esopus Valley and the nearby summit rock before descending. The hike is 5.2 miles and will take about 6 hours. Wear good boots and bring plenty of water. We'll eat at the overlook. Strenuous. Well behaved dogs welcome. Register by June 21 by contacting CMC board member Wendell George at wendell@catskillmountainclub.org or 845-254-4546.Directions: From SR 28 in Highmount, turn south onto Galli-Curci Rd. which becomes Todd Mountain Rd. Go about 5 miles to Rider Hollow Rd. and turn left/east. Drive to the parking area 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 and go .5 miles to Rider Hollow Rd., turn right and follow to the end of the road.