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 Reporter |
Summary: You will be walking one mile along a dirt road. Along the way, you will see a granite marker for the alleged burial location of the local Indian maiden, Utsayantha. When you reach the top, there are several viewpoints. One is from a wooden platform used by hang-gliding enthusiasts. The most striking feature on the summit is the wooden building which was once an observatory and souvenier shop for tourists who visited the mountain (often taking a carriage ride to the top). There is also a firetower (which cannot be climbed) and several communication towers clustered on the summit. If you have time, you may also want to check out the Blenheim covered bridge and Minekill falls - both on NY Route 30. Trailhead: Follow NY Route 23 to the village of Stamford. Turn South onto Mountain Ave. Stay on this road for about 1.2 miles. Just past the dirt road marked 'private' is another dirt road which leads to the summit. It is only passable by 4WD vehicles so park here and follow this second road on foot. (Lat:42.393 Lon:-74.599) Trail Guides for Mount Utsayantha: Catskill Trails A Rangers Guide to the High Peaks Northern by Edward G. Henry (Black Dome Press) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes, Ranger Contact: NYS DEC Region 4 Ranger (845)586-3194 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 CJ on 7/19/2009 Great views - firetower was open and 360 degree view from on it was spectacular. Excellent picnic spot. First part of the rd is paved rest is gravel but manageable for any vehicle on a dry day. Road is narrow in spots and no parking allowed on the road. Parking is available at two overlooks and at the top.
Reviewed by Pawel on 6/12/2009 Visited yesterday. The dirt road is now better kept and you can drive all the way to the top with relative ease. There is a very nice fire tower at the top and the views are very nice worth a visit if your in the area.
Reviewed by TBF on 9/16/2008 Nice views whether you drive or hike the way up. A great vista of the Catskills. 
Reviewed by Colz on 7/2/2008 Loved the hike up the mountain road/trail. It was worth it for lovely view. We stayed at the Belvedere Country Inn in the town of Stamford so it was a 5 mile round trip walk/hike. A great place to meet up for a picnic.
Reviewed by Viewer on 12/19/2006 Nice hike or drive either way the views are great.
Reviewed by JV on 1/15/2006 Just thought I'd add that the fire tower is now open. 
Reviewed by esp on 9/12/2005 This is more of a town park than a hiking destination. Although there is a foot trail, most people drive up. You don't need 4 wheel drive in good weather, although it is a dirt road. It is a bit of a lover's lane at night. There are barbecue pits and four cell phone towers--not exactly pristine, but nice views. Good picnic spot. Volunteers and funds are needed to help in the restoration of the fire tower and the historic building.
Reviewed by upthecreekmike on 9/5/2005 We parked at the bottom of the dirt road and hiked up. But several people drove to the top. It's all up hill on the dirt road. There were people hang gliding off the top of the hill. It was cool to be right there as they took off.(10 feet from them) Great views from the top of the fire tower. There is a large grass area at the top were we had a picnic lunch. Not your average hiking trail more of a nice walk up a steep dirt road through the woods to a great view. You could drive up and just enjoy the view. The road is rough but drivable. There really wasn't any marking to tell you that you were there but the directions are acurate. Labor Day 2005. 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, Delaware County Hiking, Delaware County Trails, Delaware County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||