Hiking the Huckleberry Loop in the Catskills

Located in the western Catskills, the Huckleberry Loop Trail is a 13 mile hike that offers something for everyone. The hike can easily be done as a day hike, but also makes a good overnight hike for those looking for a rare multi-day loop hike in the Catskills. The trail passes through forests, former farm fields, extensive fern glades, and passes several great views along its length.

We did the Huckleberry Loop as a counterclockwise loop hike and began at Hill Road. From Hill Road we followed the Huckleberry Loop Trail downhill about 0.4 miles to Huckleberry Brook Road, which the trail follows the road downhill for about 0.7 miles, where it then turns left, crosses a stream on a bridge and then begins climbing the unnamed ridge. The trail eventually reaches the top of the ridge, which it follows for about 5.5 miles before descending off the ridge and crossing Ploutz Road. The Huckleberry Loop Trail then climbs 1.4 miles to the crest of Dry Brook Ridge and intersects with the Dry Brook Ridge Trail. From here, you follow the Dry Brook Ridge Trail north for 1.75 mile, past several viewpoints, before coming to the intersection with the second portion of the Huckleberry Loop Trail. You then descend 2.3 miles back to the trailhead on Hill Road where you started.

This a 13 mile long hike that is moderate to challenging in difficulty, mostly because it is simply a long hike. The trail is easy to follow and offers a generally good footpath. The only reliable water along the route is the stream crossing at Huckleberry Brook Road and the stream crossing just before Ploutz Road, otherwise there are only ephemeral springs along the way that may or may not be dry.

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You can find more information about this hike on:

• The NYNJ Trail Conference's Catskill Trails Map Set
• National Geographic's Trails Illustrated Map for the Catskill Park
• Catskill Trails Guidebook from ADK
• Hiking the Catskills Guidebook
• Guide to the Catskill Fire Tower Challenge 

Find additional information about the Catskill Park by visiting the Catskills Visitor Center

• https://catskillsvisitorcenter.org​.

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Advice and Recommended Gear:

• Our Hiking Gear Guide and Recommendations
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• Top Ten Day Hiking Essentials
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Gear we used on this hike:

• Goodr Sunglasses
• Osprey Talon 22 Pack
• Altra Lone Peak Shoes
• Black Diamond Trail Back Trekking Poles
• Darn Tough Socks
• Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
• Nalgene 32-ounce Wide-Mouth Water Bottles
• Energizer LED Headlamp
• Patagonia Nine Trails Shorts
• NEMO Chipper Reclaimed Closed-Cell Foam Seat Pad
• Garmin Instinct Watches
• Garmin inReach Plus GPS

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Important Hiking Considerations:

1. Weather: Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for changes in conditions. Weather can be unpredictable, so bring appropriate clothing and gear. 
2. Safety: Some sections of the trail can be steep and rocky, so use caution and watch your footing. It's also a good idea to hike with a friend or let someone know about your hiking plans. 
3. Leave No Trace: As with any outdoor activity, remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Pack out any trash, stay on the trail, and be respectful of the natural environment.