Hunter Mountain via Spruceton Trail

Catskill Park

View from Hunter fire tower - Hunter Mountain via Spruceton Trail - Catskill Park - Photo: Daniel Chazin View from Hunter fire tower - Hunter Mountain via Spruceton Trail - Catskill Park - Photo: Daniel Chazin

This loop hike climbs to the second-highest peak in the Catskills, with outstanding views from the fire tower at the summit and from several other viewpoints along the trail.

42.18478, -74.27178

From the parking area, follow the blue-blazed Spruceton Trail northward. This trail follows a wide dirt road which provides access to the fire tower at the top of the mountain. Soon, you will pass a trail register (please sign). After about half a mile, the trail crosses Hunter Brook on a wide wooden bridge and then makes a sharp right turn. The trail now ascends gradually, following the road...

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Avenza App Map: Catskill 141

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Trip Reports

rate experience
July 31, 2016
0
Camping along the trails on this hike
<p>As the description above makes clear, this hike passes two shelters at which camping is permitted. &nbsp;Moreover, in general, camping is permitted anywhere in the Catskills under 3,500 feet in elevation, as long as you camp more than 150 feet from the trail and from water sources. &nbsp;While much of the hike is above 3,500 feet, the beginning and end are below 3,500 feet. &nbsp;It should be noted that the steepness of the trail and the surrounding terrain makes camping unfeasible for a significant portion of the hike. &nbsp;The two shelters, though, are wonderful places to camp -- especially the John Robb Lean-to, which was recently rebuilt at a magnificent site, a short distance from the trail. &nbsp;Nearby tentsites are also available.</p>
Daniel Chazin
July 28, 2016
0
Multi-night trip?
<p>I know that a short distance away, most of the trails surrounding North/South Lake are un-campable because of their location and that NSL Campgrounds are the only place to legally camp in the area. How about along this trail?</p>
Bill Reines
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