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Backpack Devil's Path in the Catskills

Elka Park, New York

Details

Distance

24.2 miles

Elevation Gain

9000 ft

Route Type

Point-to-Point

Description

Added by Eduardo Gil

A three-day backpacking excursion that kicks ass. Complete with killer prominences throughout 6 (really 7) peaks of the Catskill region in New York.

Devil's Path is roughly more than 24 miles long, althought it feels like an eternity of milage. Going thru the summits of Indian head, Twin, Sugarloaf, Plateau, Hunter, and Westkill Mountains.

Its brutal. Its painful, Its unique. Be prepared for anything and everything. You will encounter wild life(bears and snakes for the most part). Weather is unpredictable. Bring everything from something warm to something water resistant and all in between.

Location: Town of Hunter / Town of Lexington, Greene County, New York, USA
Trailheads: Prediger Road (east); Spruceton Road (west)

Highest point: West Kill Mountain, 3,880 ft (1,180 m) which is the longest stretch on milage and the last mountain of your climb
Lowest point: Stony Clove Notch, 2,220 ft (680 m) which feels like your going down to the devils very hell. infinite and long.

Hiking details
Trail difficulty: Strenuous
Season: All
Sights: Northern Catskill Mountains
Hazards Steep, precarious climbs

INDIAN HEAD, TWIN, SUGARLOAF, PLATEAU, HUNTER, AND WEST KILL MOUNTAIN SUMMITS.

"According to officials, someone dies almost every year on Devil's Path, whether from a fall or heart attack" and i'd have to agree. My goal during this hike was conquering trail markers after the first 4 summits. It takes a toll on you depending on your trail shape and how much gear you carry.

Water is essential. You will be drentched in sweat so preprare accordingly. there are plenty of streams at numerous points so have that filter hand and be prepared to vear off desired trail to access it.

First determine whether you'll have a two vehicle (or three) option available for best planning. If so spread them. park one at end of trail, the other at devils campground, and the last at the trail head where you begin. this will be easier on your backpacking load if planned and calculated correctly. If not then call Smileys Transport at (518) 589-6533 to set up accommodations. They charge a hefty 75 dollars (flat rate) to take you to the end of trail to park your vehicle and then transports you to the trail head to begin your journey. Very friendly guy and great advice and pointers if you listen.

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Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Backpack the Eastern Half of Devil's Path in the Catskill Mountains

Hike Indian Head Summit via Jimmy Dolan Notch Overlook

Hike Twin Mountain

Hike to Plattekill Falls

Hike to Huckleberry Point

Camp at Sugarloaf Mountain in the Catskills