Hike Itinerary

The hike will begin by following the Spruceton Trail for a little over a mile and a half (1.7 miles). This beginning section will have some steeper hiking right at the start but will offer some easier and more gradual sections as we move along. Once we reach the ascent up to the John Robb Lean-To, we will be at one of the steepest sections of the trail for a little over half a mile. At the pull-off for John Robb, the group will have the option of stopping by the shelter to get a nice view and to use the Privy. After that point, we will complete the final section which is a little over a mile until we reach the fire tower (1.3 miles). The Fire Tower area will have a nice field and open canopy to get nice views of the night sky and will offer beautiful views of the horizon from the Fire Tower itself.

Items to Bring

Water (1-2 Liters as needed. There is a spring to draw from about halfway along the trail, however it is generally recommended to filter the water in the Catskills, so either carry all of your water needs or bring a filter along with you)
Snacks
Headlamp (cell phone lights will not suffice)*
Insulation - Insulation is recommended in case of wind
Trekking Poles (If needed, there will be some steep sections)Hiking Boots or Shoes (trail runners are acceptable, just make sure your footwear can handle a rocky trail)

Meet-up Location

We will meet up for this hike at the Rusk Mountain Trailhead right off Spruceton Rd in West Kill, NY. If the parking lot is full, there is an additional lot about a minute further down the road on the right side. You can park there and walk back to the starting trailhead. There will be a group stretch before starting to hike to ensure everyone is prepared for hiking the Catskill Park’s second tallest mountain. There is no cell service in the area, be sure to have your drive out of the area planned out or download the way back for offline use ahead of time.

We will head back the same way we came and will take our time on the steeper sections. We will have the option to stop and refill water from the spring for any who need it on the way down. We will not be stopping at the Lean-to on the way back to the trailhead to avoid disturbing any overnighters, however, if anyone requires the privy we will wait at the junction for anyone who would like to make the trip.

*If you do not have a headlamp you will not be allowed to take part in this hike. Due to issues with having to assist hikers who did not have headlamps in the past, there will be NO EXCEPTIONS! You will also be turned away if you forget your headlamp, it only counts if it’s on your person so be sure you have it before you start driving.

Hunter Mountain Full Moon Hike - September 17

By Catskill Center for Conservation and Development

Hunter Mountain Full Moon Hike - September 17