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4,031 ft · Devil's Path, New York

Hunter Mountain

Hunter Mountain is a 4,031 ft peak in the Devil's Path, New York. The standard route is the Spruceton Trail: 7 mi, 2,150 ft of gain, Class 1.

Hunter Mountain in the Devil's Path, New York

Hunter Mountain at a glance

  • Elevation4,031 ft1,228 m
  • RouteSpruceton TrailClass 1
  • Distance7 mi2,150 ft gain
  • Time5 – 7 hrsModerate effort
  • SeasonMay – Nov
  • RangeDevil's PathNew York

Climbing the Spruceton Trail

From West Kill, follow Spruceton Road (CR 6) about 6.7 miles from NY 42 to the Spruceton Trail lot. The blue Spruceton Trail climbs an old woods road 3.4 mi to the fire tower on the true summit, passing the John Robb lean-to at 2.1 mi and the Colonel's Chair junction at 2.4 mi. It is Class 1 and moderate but sustained, and horses use it, so expect mud in spring. DEC boarded the tower cab windows after a windstorm in 2026, so check the tower status before counting on views. Rusk and Southwest Hunter bushwhacks begin nearby.

Gear and hazards

What to bring

  • Backpack (25–35 L)
  • Hiking Boots
  • Water
  • Offline Maps
  • Headlamp
  • Satellite Communicator
  • Whistle
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Sun Hat
  • Midlayer
  • Insulated Jacket
  • Hardshell Jacket
  • Warm Hat
  • Buff
  • Midweight Gloves
  • Trekking Poles
  • GPS Device
  • Power Bank
  • Water Filter
  • First-Aid Kit
  • Emergency Bivy

What to watch for

  • Rapid weather shifts
  • Low visibility
  • Slippery terrain
  • Boggy terrain

Quests with Hunter Mountain

Peaks near Hunter Mountain

  1. Southwest Hunter

    Southwest Hunter

    3,751 ft · 1.3 mi away

  2. Rusk Mountain

    Rusk Mountain

    3,687 ft · 2.9 mi away

  3. West Kill Mountain

    West Kill Mountain

    3,899 ft · 3.1 mi away

  4. Plateau Mountain

    Plateau Mountain

    3,836 ft · 4.0 mi away

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Hunter Mountain?

Hunter Mountain is 4,031 feet (1,228 m) tall. It is in the Devil's Path, New York.

How does Hunter Mountain rank among the Catskill 3500?

At 4,031 feet, Hunter Mountain is the 2nd highest of the 33 peaks of the Catskill 3500. The highest is Slide Mountain.

How hard is it to hike Hunter Mountain?

The Spruceton Trail is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 7 miles with 2,150 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to hike Hunter Mountain?

Most people take 5 – 7 hours round trip on the Spruceton Trail, covering 7 miles with 2,150 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.

Can a beginner hike Hunter Mountain?

Usually, if you are fit. The Spruceton Trail is a common first summit for hikers ready for 5 – 7 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.

When is the best time to hike Hunter Mountain?

The usual hiking window is May to November. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.

Climb Hunter Mountain with Yak

Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list