About an hour away from SUNY New Paltz campus is Hunter Mountain, a well-known hiking spot (and ski resort) in the Catskills. I left campus around 8AM, and got to the trailhead around 9.
I decided I wanted to hike here because it’s one of the Catskills 3500 peaks that doesn’t have a marked summit trail, making it more of a hidden gem. I am new to bushwhacking, but I’d heard good things about it and wanted to try it for myself.
I went on a more humid day–we got lucky, it was supposed to rain, but the rain stopped overnight, so it was a little muddy at best. The trailhead was easy to find, but the lot was full, so we had to be parked in.
Distance: ~7 mi round trip
Type: Out-and-back
Elevation gain: ~1800 ft
Time: ~4 hours
The trail starts off on a gravel path that leads to Diamond Notch Falls. It’s a great view to start the hike with. If it was just a little bit warmer, I would have gone for a swim.
The trail increases in difficulty as you continue, with elevation gain becoming steeper and the path becoming less obvious. However, it was beautiful the whole way. While there was no major view or overlook at the top, there was a small box with a notebook to sign, still giving a feeling of accomplishment.
Southwest Hunter is a quieter, more rugged peak, perfect if you want something that feels more off-the-beaten-path. Wear sturdy shoes, as some of the rocks can be unstable and/or slippery.
I would also recommend using AllTrails or some form of GPS, as I only had reception at the trailhead and the very top of the summit.
I didn’t feel the need to apply bug spray (I went in early September).
Overall, this hike was fantastic–a great way to start off the semester!
Check out our other New York State hiking posts here:
https://www.anationofmoms.com/travel/new-york-hikes
Busy college student and travel enthusiast, Dylan enjoys hiking, biking, and exploring as much as possible.
Feel free to contact the blog with questions: marysa@anationofmoms.com
That looks like a cool hike but also long. I will make sure to bring water and snacks
That hike sounds like a gem! I love how you detailed the route, scenic views, and terrain…makes me want to lace up and hit the trail there sooner than later.
This is such a beautiful hike. I just love waterfalls. There’s something so calming about being around them.
That sounds like a great distance for a good hike. I love the it has such beautiful and scenic views to appreciate as you walk. Good advice on the gps, we normally use our phones.