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 Reporter |
Summary: This is a very popular hike that can be combined with a visit to the artsy village of Woodstock. The trail follows the jeep road to the summit. The gravel road is blazed with red markers. After 2 miles of steady climbing, you reach the ruins of the old Overlook mountain hotel. Only the concrete shell remains. Behind it, is a reminder of our modern world - a transmission tower. A trail comes in from the left which leads to Echo Lake. Continue straight ahead to the fire tower. In the summer months, there is usually a steward to greet you. Near the cabin is a short trail that leads to a scenic overlook with a grand view of the Hudson valley and the Ashokan reservoir. Trailhead: Take NYS Thruway (87) to Exit 20. Get on Rte 212 heading west. When you reach the center of Woodstock, take right on Rock City Road. This road becomes Mead Mountain Road after crossing Glasco Turnpike. The parking area is on the right across from the Budhist Temple - about 1.5 miles from Rte 212 . (Lat:42.07 Lon:-74.12) Trail Guides for Overlook Mountain -Catskills: Catskill Trails A Rangers Guide to the High Peaks Central by Edward G. Henry (Black Dome Press) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes, Ranger Contact: NYS DEC Region 3 Forest Ranger (845) 256-3026 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by George Senft, who has posted 26 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 1 of 7 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Fawn on 5/25/2009 I loved this hike! I hiked this trail on May 24, 2009. It was a refreshing small hike. It would be a great starter hike or warm up. There is a nice view at the top and the old hotel was a fun surprise. Pace yourself going up and bring plenty of water! A good pair of sneakers or trail runners is all you really need.
Reviewed by DJL on 5/20/2009 hiked the trail on May 18th. No sun and a bit chilly, but oh what a great hike. Loved the sites at the top and had a picnic lunch. We just enjoyed it. Also PACE yourself going up, it can be difficult for someone who's not a hiker.
Reviewed by Annette on 5/10/2009 This is a great hike, for a half day trip, bring water and good footwear, also dogs are allowed as far as I know, be sure to bring water for them as well as it is a challenging but pleasant hike.
Reviewed by Bill on 3/30/2009 Good exercise both up and down. Ruins are awsome. Firetower cabin closed but the stairs aren't. Going again real soon. Inspiring to say the least.
Reviewed by CJW on 2/17/2009 2/16/09 - Trail surface hard packed snow and ice. Clear view, nice day. Firetower cab closed, but views still spectacular.
Reviewed by EWD on 11/26/2008 Good hike lots of exercise.Great views.Just be careful in the summer time. THERE ARE TIMBER RATTLESNAKES ALONG THE TRAIL AND THE ROCKS AND RUINS. BE CAREFUL. 
Reviewed by Howard S. on 11/11/2008 Tough walk, but worth it, Nice day a little sun, but a brisk wind. Everyone needs to see this hike at least once. The views are unbelievable.
Reviewed by Kathy & Elle on 11/10/2008 It was a foggy day, the leaves were past peak and falling the trail was perfect but quite a challenge. What an awesome surprise to see the Overlook Mtn.House ruins shrouded in fog. I thought I was seeing the Coliseum of Rome. At that point a light rain began to add to the eerieness of the moment. Reminded me of my viewing of "The Blair Witch Project". Definitely returning in the Spring to capture the vistas from the tower. 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, Ulster County Hiking, Ulster County Trails, Ulster County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||