Overlook Mountain Sunset Hike
The hike up Overlook Mountain via the Overlook Spur Trail is a popular hike in the Catskill Mountains for a reason – it offers stunning vistas, ruins of an old hotel, a historic fire tower, and for us in the evening, a chance to catch the sunset.
Just past the trailhead kiosk and trail register, the trail starts climbing gently, but becomes more strenuous as it makes its way up Overlook. Less than a mile from the summit, you’ll encounter the remains of the Overlook Mountain House, a former hotel that burned down in the early 20th century. You can walk through most of the ruins, just be careful as you make your way through as there are loose stones and sudden drops in some areas. There are also rattle snakes throughout this area, so it is best to always be extra careful.
After the ruins, and the cell tower just above them, the trail becomes steeper and narrower as you hike towards the fire tower. As you near the summit, the trail levels off, and you’ll soon reach the cabin below the Overlook Mountain Fire Tower. It’s a short walk to the open area of the summit where the Fire Tower sits. Be sure to climb the tower for panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains, Hudson Valley, and beyond.
Since this is an in and out hike, you descend along the same trail you came up. Just as it was a stead ascent, it’s a steady descent.
This is moderate hike without any difficult sections, just a long steady climb. The total hike is about 5 miles roundtrip. You’ll gain about 1360 feet of elevation along the hike.
Watch all of our videos about hikes in the Catskills on YouTube
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
Find additional information about the Catskill Park by visiting the Catskills Visitor Center
Outdoor Hiking, Backpacking and Camping Guide Services:
Advice and Recommended Gear:
- Goodr Sunglasses
- Osprey Talon 22 Pack
- Osprey Kestrel 38 Pack
- Altra Lone Peak Shoes
- Deliberate Life Designs Sandals
- 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
- Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Shorts
- NEMO Chipper Reclaimed Closed-Cell Foam Seat Pad
- Garmin Instinct Watches
- Garmin inReach Plus GPS
Important Hiking Considerations:
- 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.
Adventures in the Outdoors – a community of hikers and outdoor enthusiasts sharing information and adventures http://adventures-in-the-outdoors.blogspot.com
Source: http://adventures-in-the-outdoors.blogspot.com/2023/07/overlook-mountain-sunset-hike.html
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