Westkill Hike, Saturday, 7/30/2022, 8:30 AM

This is a 6.5-mile out-and-back hike up to Westkill (3,881 ft.) We’ll take the easy and flat Diamond Notch Trail (blue). After we cross the bridge, we’ll take the Devil’s Path (red) which ascends quickly and steeply but not too strenuous. I find this section of the Devil’s Path easier than the other sections. After about 1.4 miles, we’ll reach an interesting rock that could be used as a shelter. Another 0.9 miles brings us to a very nice viewpoint, Buck Ridge lookouts, to the north, east and south. The next 0.1 miles, we’ll be at the summit of Westkill. We’ll retrace our steps and make a stop at Diamond Notch Falls before our return to our cars.Event Duration:  6.5 miles round trip, 5 hoursLevel of Difficulty:   Moderate-DifficultLeader(s): Siu S YuenBring: good hiking shoes, lunch, snacks, bug spray, plenty to drink, map and compass (recommended),Registration required by 07/26/22 date.  Register by contacting the leader. See below.Group size is limited to 12, so register early.Dogs allowed:  No Covid-19 Guidelines:  Wear a mask while congregated in the parking lot or at other sites.  Hike single file, following social distancing protocols.  Avoid carpooling except with members of your household. Use your own pen when signing in, or use hand sanitizer.  Note:  As vaccination rates rise, risks decrease. We will phase out these guidelines when rates improve significantly. In the meantime, please protect others and yourself by following these simple, CDC endorsed guidelines.Registration and Questions about this event can be directed to:  ssyuen@msn.comAdditional Information: Rain date is Sunday, 7/31/22Driving Directions: From Exit 19 in Kingston, Take RT-28W from Thruway in Kingston for 27.6 miles, turn right into RT-42 for 7.6 miles and then right onto Spruceton Road/ CR-6 for 6.75 miles to almost the end. If space is not available, then you can park down in the parking lot 1/4 mile back down the road.GPS coordinates:  N 42.1812 W74.2679