Huckleberry Loop in the Catskills, an often overlooked gem of a hike!
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 hike beginning at Hill Road. From Hill Road we followed the Huckleberry Loop downhill about 0.4 miles to Huckleberry Brook Road, which the trail follows downhill for about 0.7 miles, where it turns left, crosses a stream on a bridge and then begins climbing the unnamed ridge. From there 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 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.
We would suggest following this loop in a counterclockwise fashion as shown in this video. The ascent is more gradual and the road walk is downhill instead of uphill.
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.
For more information
You can find this hike on:
Additional Catskill Park information available at the Catskills Visitor Center (5096 Route 28 in Mt. Tremper)
Hike On Guides: Need help on a hike like this? Moe is a NYS licensed hiking and backpacking guide. You can hire him for Hiking, Backpacking and Camping Guide Services at Hike On Guides for hikes in New York, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts.
Gear we used and/or carried on this hike:
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Important Hiking Considerations:
Weather: Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for changes in conditions.
Safety: Some sections of the trail can be steep and rocky, so use caution and watch your footing.
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.
