Hiking Ashokan High Point in the Catskill Mountains
Ashokan High Point is a great hike in New York’s Catskill Mountains. Rising to an elevation of 3,061 feet, this scenic peak is located near the Ashokan Reservoir within the Catskill Park and offers a perfect blend of moderate hiking and climbing with some great summit views. Although Ashokan High Point is not one of the Catskills High Peaks (those peaks above 3500 feet), it's still a favorite thanks to those views.
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Outdoor Hiking, Backpacking and Camping Guide Services:
Important Hiking Considerations:
Hiking Ashokan High Point typically involves either an in and out hike of about 7 miles, or in the case of our hike, a lollipop loop hike of 9 miles. The trailhead is located on County Route 42 (Peekamoose Road), a few miles up from CR 42's intersection with Route 28A.
The first three miles of the Ashokan High Point Trail takes you along a gently climbing old road besides Kanape Brook. At the height of land between Ashokan High Point and Mombaccus Mountain, the trail takes a hard left and quickly reaches the intersection where the lollipop loop part of the hike starts. From here most people go straight (counterclockwise on the loop) the 1.1 miles to the summit and the first view. Based on trail conditions, that is the most popular in and out hike. The rest of the loop beyond the summit isn't difficult to follow, but it is lightly used and not very well maintained.
The lollipop loop is 3.6 miles in total length and then you'll have the additional 3 miles back out along Kanape Brook to the trailhead on Peekamoose Road.
The total hike is 9 miles with about 2,100 feet of elevation gain along the way. This is a moderately difficult hike with a few steep climbs, but overall nothing really difficult in terms of climbing, just a lot of miles and a lot of elevation gain and descent.
The first three miles of the Ashokan High Point Trail takes you along a gently climbing old road besides Kanape Brook. At the height of land between Ashokan High Point and Mombaccus Mountain, the trail takes a hard left and quickly reaches the intersection where the lollipop loop part of the hike starts. From here most people go straight (counterclockwise on the loop) the 1.1 miles to the summit and the first view. Based on trail conditions, that is the most popular in and out hike. The rest of the loop beyond the summit isn't difficult to follow, but it is lightly used and not very well maintained.
The lollipop loop is 3.6 miles in total length and then you'll have the additional 3 miles back out along Kanape Brook to the trailhead on Peekamoose Road.
The total hike is 9 miles with about 2,100 feet of elevation gain along the way. This is a moderately difficult hike with a few steep climbs, but overall nothing really difficult in terms of climbing, just a lot of miles and a lot of elevation gain and descent.
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- The Hiker Trash Husband's Catskills Videos
- Catskill 3500 Challenge Videos
- Catskills Fire Tower Challenge Videos
- Best Catskills Loop Hikes Videos
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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
- Catskill Center's Platte Clove Preserve
Outdoor Hiking, Backpacking and Camping Guide Services:
Advice and Recommended Gear:
Gear we used on this hike:
- Goodr Sunglasses
- REI Traverse 32 Pack
- Gossamer Gear Shoulder Strap Pockets
- Altra Lone Peak Shoes
- Darn Tough Midweight Hiking Socks
- REI Traverse Trekking Poles
- Cotopaxi Sombra Sun Hoodie
- Patagonia Nine Trails Shorts
- Nalgene 32-ounce Wide-Mouth Water Bottles
- Energizer LED Headlamp
- NEMO Chipper Reclaimed Closed-Cell Foam Seat Pad
- Garmin Forerunner 255 Smartwatch
- Garmin inReach Plus GPS
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- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
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