Snowshoeing to North Point in the Catskills
North Point, located high above North South Lake State Campground, offers tremendous views of the surrounding mountains and the open expanse of the Hudson Valley.
A classic hike in the Catskills in the summer months, the trip out to North Point requires a bit more logistics in the winter with the majority of the North South Lake State Campground closed in the winter months. For this hike we parked just outside the campground at the Schutt Road Trailhead.
From the trailhead, we took the Rock Shelter Trail to its intersection with the Mary’s Glen Trail. From there, it was the Mary’s Glen Trail to the Escarpment Trail. Finally we followed the Escarpment Trail to the top of North Point where we were rewarded with the views of the Hudson Valley, North and South Lakes, and the peaks of the northeastern Catskills.
On the way back, we stayed on the Escarpment Trail, past its junction with the Mary’s Glen Trail, down to the intersection with the Rock Shelter Trail. From there, we followed the Rock Shelter back towards the Mary’s Glen Trail, past the intersection with the Mary’s Glen Trail, and back out to the trailhead on Schutt Road. Think of the hike this way like a lollipop - you walk in and out the same way, but there’s a loop for the last portion.
Overall this hike is just over 5 miles and includes about 830 feet of elevation gain. There are a few ledgy areas that can be a bit of challenge in snowshoes, but someone with at least some snowshoe experience shouldn’t find this hike too difficult.
You can find more information about this hike with:
The New York New Jersey Trail Conference's Catskill Trails Map Set
National Geographic’s Trails Illustrated Map for the Catskill Park
For additional information about the Catskill Park and outdoor recreation in the Park, visit the Catskills Visitor Center.
Don’t know where to start with hiking, backpacking, and camping? We can help you! Visit our professional Outdoor Hiking, Backpacking and Camping Guide Services Company at Hike On Guides.
Gear we used on this hike:
Hydration and nutrition for this hike:
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