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The quintessential Catskills hike on a trail with a view.


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Map Key

3.9

Miles

6.3

KM

Loop

2,269' 692 m

High

1,918' 585 m

Low

519' 158 m

Up

520' 158 m

Down

5%

Avg Grade (3°)

26%

Max Grade (15°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Views

Overview

The Escarpment Trail is riddled with amazing viewpoints that will reward you all along your hike.

Need to Know

This is a popular destination, accessible by visitors from the campground as well as the Kaaterskill Falls crowd.

Port-a-potties are available in the Laurel House parking lot.

Description

Hikers will leave from the newly enhanced parking lot off of Laurel House Road that serves Kaaterskill Falls and the observation platform.

Hikers will cross over the new pedestrian bridge and follow the DEC signs to the blue-blazed Escarpment Trail.

The initial section of this hike is a rocky descent, down to Layman's Monument.

The trail then turns along the Escarpment, and hikers will have a fairly easy stretch of trail to enjoy. There are several amazing viewpoints including Inspiration Point. The tread is well maintained, but watch for tripping hazards.

There are several options to extend or shorten this hike, but follow the yellow-tagged equestrian trail (Yellow Horse Trail), which is a nice flat trail back towards the Kaaterskill Falls area. This part of hike has you essentially following what appears to be an old wood road that has begun to fill back in and been well maintained.

The trail intersections can be tricky; when the yellow-blazed trail returns to the blue Escarpment Trail, turn left and head back to your starting point.

Contacts

Shared By:

Joshua Howard

Trail Ratings

  3.7 from 7 votes

#4007

Overall
  3.7 from 7 votes
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3 Star
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Recommended Route Rankings

#90

in New York

#4,007

Overall
3 Views Last Month
2,712 Since Oct 4, 2018
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Photos

Katterskill falls
Jul 14, 2019 near Palenville, NY
Kaaterskill Waterfall takes on an entirely new character in wintertime.
Mar 1, 2017 near Palenville, NY
Katterskill falls
Jul 14, 2019 near Palenville, NY
Katterskill falls
Jul 14, 2019 near Palenville, NY
Experience a magnificent double waterfall at the end of the Kaaterskill Falls Trail.
Mar 1, 2017 near Palenville, NY
Kaaterskill Falls from above
Jan 24, 2018 near Palenville, NY
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