Queen of the Catskills

Plateau Mountain via Devil’s Path from Mink Hollow PA (All Trails Challenge NYNJTC Map 141) Only two cars in Mink Hollow PA, and I started around noon. I so adore midweek hiking and skiing that I’m counting down the days to retirement—which should be about 12 years from now. The trails were damp but firm, and the rocks and tree roots were slippery from the rain. I always bring poles, but today I was particularly grateful for them—especially on the way down.  Today’s IPA induced musing was that my natural proclivity is toward monogamy, but if I really think about it, I’m kind of in an ethically non-monogamous relationship with skiing, as it will always be my primary partner.  With skiing (and hiking) I can constantly rebuild my belief in myself by taking on new projects or challenges. It also gives me a sense of efficacy and control over my psychological, spiritual, and physical well-being. When I engage in it, I feel I’m living life to the fullest.  I think we often rely ...

Windham High Peak and Burnt Knob via Escarpment Trail from Rt. 23 to the intersection of Black Dome Range Trail (All Trails Challenge NYNJTC Map 141) I remembered that there was a closure near the lean-to, so I went to the DEC website prior to undertaking this hike and couldn’t find anything about it. I figured I’d give it a shot and if there were any detours, I’d follow the signs. All I saw was a map on a tree near the lean-to, but it didn’t suggest an alternate route so I proceeded. Whatever the issue was seems to be cleared up. The trail is dry and in great condition. There were some flies buzzing around in an intimidating manner, but they didn’t land on me. Other than that, the only thing noteworthy are the beautiful views. My favorite is actually on the way down from WHP to Burnt Knob.  I’m still amazed at how not ski friendly things appear in the off season, but WHP was one of my favorite ski tours this past winter. Today’s beer was Devil’s Path IPA which is my favorite Catsk...

Black Dome, Thomas Cole, Camel’s Hump, & Caudal via the Black Dome Range Trail (All Trails Challenge NYNJTC Map 141) I arrived between 4:30 and 5pm. I chilled for a bit and had my Devils Path IPA before getting started. While I was able to get a spot due to it being later in the day, you could tell that there were a lot of cars there earlier. I opted for this trail as it’s not usually as popular as the others. I passed a few people on the way up near the beginning of the trail. After that, I had the mountains to myself which is just how I like it. There are a lot of flies on the way up, but I used bug spray and kept moving so they weren’t much of an issue. The hike passed by surprisingly quickly since this trail is usually a little boring to me. As I was climbing up Caudal, I remember thinking, “I can’t believe I skied this in such low tide.” I gave myself a pat on the back. Regardless of how I did it, to keep the skis on my feet while descending ledges with a tight pathway through...

Hunter Mountain via Spruceton Trail (All Trails Challenge NYNJTC Map 141) Sunset hikes (and ski tours) are my favorite. I had the entire mountain to myself. No one was even at the John Robb Lean-to.  I took Spruceton up. The trail was dry except for a few patches of stagnant water past the Colonel’s Chair trail. Those areas have mosquitoes and flies, but they weren’t that bothersome.  The cab in the fire tower was closed, but should be open during the weekend. I still got some sick shots from the staircase, though.  I was remembering that time I caught people having sex in the tower. My word of advice is that if the cab is not open to at least try and do it behind the top staircase so you’re less visible. Though, I know as a bystander, I would rather not have to deal with this. It was actually embarrassing for everyone involved.  I often find myself trying to figure out what I really want. Do I like the freedom of being able to ski and hike whenever / wherever I want...