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 Reporter |
Summary: Westkill is the sixth highest mountain in the Catskills. It is a massive mountain with many ridges. From the parking area, continue walking east along the old road (blue markers). After 1 mile, you reach a waterfall on the creek you have been following along. Cross the footbridge here and then turn right on the trail with red markers (Devil's Path). The trail climbs steadily for the next mile. You reach a small cave (which is just an overhang) at the 3500 feet elevation. Continue along the ridge until you reach Buck Ridge Lookout. This sandstone ledge offers a 180 degree view. There is another ledge with a view to the North just off the trail. The actual summit is another 1/4 mile further along. It is marked with a sign and a rock cairn. Trailhead: Take NY Rte 23A to Hunter and continue west to Lexington. Turn left onto NY Rte 42. After 4 miles, turn left onto CR 6 (Spruceton Rd). Continue for about 7 miles until the road ends. Parking is on the right just before the last house. (Lat:42.182 Lon:-74.27) Trail Guides for Westkill Mountain - Catskills: Catskill Trails A Rangers Guide to the High Peaks Northern by Edward G. Henry (Black Dome Press) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: NYS DEC Region 4 Ranger (518) 989-6255 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by George Senft, who has posted 26 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 1 of 2 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by superk on 5/26/2009 4 hours from trailhead to peak and back again, including 15-20 minutes spent at Buck Ridge lookout. Great views from Buck Ridge lookout, but abit windy. We were the only people on the mountain that day...
Reviewed by gcb on 3/5/2008 I live in the area, and it's been a while since I've been on West Kill. The first time was a day hike, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The second time, we hiked the entire Devil's Path in a day from E to W, and the last mountain (West Kill) was unfortunately more endured than enjoyed that day. I'm fascinated to hear esp's account of porcupines damaging cars. I've had to protect my car from them in the Canadian Rockies, and it's good intel to know they're up to no good here too!
Reviewed by seungmo on 7/4/2007 2 of 9 members of new york alpine club traversed within 1 day, from Prediger rd. to Spruceton rd. Started 5:20 a.m., reached at Devil's tombstone at 4:30 p.m. and left for the Westkill Mt. at 5 p.m. Cho and Seungmo reached lean-to at 6 p.m. It took them another 30 minutes to reach Diamond Notch. 2 members keep going on hiking mild slope to the Westkill Mt. Had brief stop at twin cave. Reached Buck Ridge lookout at 8:30 p.m. It started thunderstorm. In pitch dark path, it took them another 3 hours 10 minutes in rainy night. To traverse the Devil's Path, it took all told,18 hours and 20 minutes. We had much of killing time on Eastern section of DP, however was a challenging day hike and worth of trying again if you're in the pink. 7/4/2007
Reviewed by seungmo on 7/4/2007 9 members new york alpine club traversed within 1 day, from Prediger rd. to Spruce rd. Started 5:20 a.m., reached at Devil's tombstone at 4:30 p.m. and left for the Westkill Mt. at 5 p.m. Reached lean to at 6 p.m. It took another 30 minutes to reach Diamond Notch. 2 members keep going on hiking mild slope to the Westkill Mt. Had brief stop at twin cave. Reached Buck lookout at 8:30 p.m. It started thunderstorm. In pitch dark path, it took us another 3 hours 10 minutes in rainy night. To traverse the Devil's Path, it took all told,18 hours and 20 minutes. We had much of killing time on Eastern section of DP. It was a challenging day hike and worth of trying if you're in the pink. 7/4/2007
Reviewed by esp on 6/8/2007 I live in town and do this hike fairly regularly. The views are good. Landowners to the south of the ridge are not particularly friendly to hikers, so don't stray too far south of the trail. My knees are shot and I find the gain in elevation a strain, but it isn't much for those in good shape. For longterm hikers on the Devil's Path, be aware that porcupines may eat the hoses while your car is parked. It usually takes them a day or two to get busy, so this is rarely a problem for day hikers. Help can be found in town, but cell phones don't work so you may end up hitching to D'addarios, opposite the post office or the west Kill Garage about a half mile north of the p.o. on route 42.
Reviewed by Charles on 4/16/2006 We were a group of three. The hike was more pleasant by a bright clear and cool day in April. Many of the paths were covered by freshly fallen pine needles which filled the air with a sweet smelling pine scent. The red markers were well placed except on the return trip from Buck Ridge with its breath-taking view. About 1/4 mile into our descent we had to seriously look for the red marker which was placed 60 feet to the North, however, after that episode it was clear sailing to the waterfall and Devil's Path. Pack a lunch and bring at least one .5 liter of water.
Reviewed by ab on 1/17/2006 nice views in many directions. nice trail also. My fourth or fifth favorite of the catskill 35s.
Reviewed by Vidya on 10/11/2005 I liked the hike and the challenge it posed for our group of six. The recent rain helped to make the waterfalls look even more breathtaking than normal. Of course, it also made the hike difficult. I only wish that there were more markers indicating how far the summit is - our group reached the 3500 elevation and turned back. I tried to go further for a bit more but returned reluctantly when I didnt know what I was looking for... I will definitely go back and make it to the summit this time. Was fun - make sure you have good shoes. Pick up a strong sturdy tree branch to serve as a hiking 'cane' - this was of great help to me. It was a great support to my right leg, a sprained knee (I know I know) and a sprained, sore calf muscle. Enjoy! Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: New York Hiking, New York Trails, New York Hikes, Greene County Hiking, Greene County Trails, Greene County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||