HIking Trip to the Catskills

Although the eastern edge of the Catskills are only about an hour from my house, I had hiked very little there–-Kaaterskill Falls and one day on the Escarpment Trail when it was so foggy all the views were obscured.

So I was excited to find a Road Scholar hiking trip to Frost Valley YMCA Camp in Claryville, New York.  It's a huge campus, over 5,500 acres, and includes a riding camp where we stayed, a farm camp and the main campus that can house 700 guests. Besides the summer camp, many programs take place throughout the year including retreats, conferences and education weeks. The woods are beautiful with many miles of hiking and riding trails. Our lodge was next to the East Branch of the Neversink River.

The last week in May was the perfect temperature for five days of hiking. We had some rain but mostly toward the end of the hike. The black flies were around at times but, thankfully, not always.

Our hike leader was Will Soter, co-founder and lead guide of Upstate Adventure Guides. He was extremely knowledgeable about the history of the Catskills, the trails, the flora and fauna, the geology, and the politics of preservation. I enjoyed being on the trail with him and learning new things.

We were a great group of ten hikers and as I always say, "Hikers are the best people!"

The first day we walked over Wildcat Ridge
to High Falls, all on Frost Valley property.

A viewing platform gave us a wonderful lunch spot
with an unobstructed view of High Falls.

Also on YMCA property was an open building at the top of a large field with perhaps the best view of the Catskills!
The campers have overnights here throughout the summer.

The East Branch of the Neversink River ran beside the Lodge.

I loved the beautiful morning light.

The horsebarns for the horses for the summer riding campers.

Wonderful ferns, mosses and wildflowers were everywhere.

On the last morning, a short hike
brought us to the Red Hill Fire Tower. 

Amazing 360º views from the top of the tower.

Had to do it--a selfie at the top!