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- Region
- New York, USA
- Country
- United States
- Biome
- Northern hardwood ridge (300–1,200 m)
- Best season
- April – November
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Backpacking
- Hiking
Key takeaways
- Biome: Northern hardwood ridge (300–1,200 m)
- Best season: April – November
- Difficulty: moderate
- Top activity: backpacking
Photos of Catskills — Devil's Path
Topic summary
A 25-mile out-and-back over six Catskill peaks — the steepest maintained trail in the East.
Key takeaways
- Difficulty: moderate
- Best season: April – November
Intended uses
backpacking
Climate suitability
Northern hardwood ridge (300–1,200 m)
Tools for a trip here
Picked for how, when and where you're going. Free, no signup.
- Sleep System Temp CalculatorCold nights: check your bag and pad add up to a safe sleep.
- Base Weight CalculatorEvery ounce is carried — total your kit and find your base weight.
- Pack Volume SizerSize the pack for your trip length and season.
- Water Purification MatrixTreat water from streams and lakes on trail.
- Layering CalculatorCold-season miles: layer for climbs and camp.
Plan with verified data
Catskills — Devil's Path trip tools
How to get there
Access to the Devil's Path is possible from various points within the Indian Head Wilderness. Notable access points include the Prediger Road Parking Area, which serves as the eastern trailhead for the Devil's Path, and locations along Platte Clove Road and Elka Park Road. Parking at designated DEC parking lots is mandatory due to local restrictions in the Town of Hunter; illegally parked vehicles are subject to towing. It is advised to have backup parking plans.
- Prediger Road Parking Area
This serves as the eastern trailhead for the Devil's Path in the Indian Head Wilderness.
- Notch Inn Road
Access to the Warner Creek Trail, which connects to the Devil's Path, is 0.75 miles from the end of Notch Inn Road.
- Mink Hollow Road
This road provides access to the Mink Hollow Trail, leading to the Mink Hollow Lean-to and connecting to the Devil's Path.
- Roaring Kill Parking Lot
Located on Elka Park Road, this lot provides access to the Roaring Kill Trail, connecting to the Pecoy Notch and Mink Hollow Trails.
Sources: dec.ny.gov · Wikipedia · Wikivoyage. Confirm road and trailhead conditions with the managing agency before you leave.
Popular pursuits at Catskills — Devil's Path
- Backpacking
Multi-day travel with everything on your back — see the packing blocks below.
- Hiking
Day miles on marked trail, with route notes and trail links below.
Animals around Catskills — Devil's Path
Wildlife guideBlack bearUrsus americanus
Big gameWhitetail DeerOdocoileus virginianus
GamefishBrook TroutSalvelinus fontinalis
Wildlife guideNorth American beaverCastor canadensis
Big gameBlack BearUrsus americanus
GamefishSmallmouth BassMicropterus dolomieu
Wildlife guideSnowshoe hareLepus americanus
Big gameWild HogSus scrofa
Maps, GPS & compass for this trip
Carry a waterproof paper map and a compass you can steer by, and treat the GPS as the backup — not the other way round. Buying links go to Amazon; Wild10 earns a commission at no cost to you.
Waterproof topo maps
- Waterproof topographic map — Catskills — Devil's PathAmazon search for waterproof, tear-resistant topo maps covering this area.
- National Geographic Trails IllustratedThe waterproof Trails Illustrated series — check for a sheet covering this area.
- Waterproof map case & compass lanyardKeep a paper map readable in rain, spray and a swamped boat.
Fishing at Catskills — Devil's Path
Planning to fish Catskills — Devil's Path, New York? Fishing licenses, open seasons and catch limits in New York are set by the local wildlife authority and change every year — check the official source before you cast a line.
Do I need a fishing license at Catskills — Devil's Path?
- A New York fishing license is normally required for anyone over the local youth age.
- Read the current New York fishing regulations for special waters, barbless-hook or catch-and-release rules.
- Clean, drain and dry boats and gear between waters to stop invasive species.
Hunting near Catskills — Devil's Path
Thinking about hunting Catskills — Devil's Path, New York? Hunting seasons, tags and draws in New York are set by the wildlife authority each year. Confirm the rules for your species and unit before you go.
Is hunting allowed at Catskills — Devil's Path?
- Confirm the land around Catskills — Devil's Path is open to hunting and which management unit it falls in.
What do I need to hunt in New York?
- A New York hunting license — most jurisdictions also require hunter education certification.
- Species tags or draw results for big game such as deer, elk, moose or bear where they occur.
- Knowledge of firearm and bow transport rules, which differ by land type and border crossing.
An Overview of the Devil's Path
The Devil's Path is a notable hiking trail located in the Catskill Mountains of New York, primarily within the Greene County section. Often described as one of the more challenging trails in the New York Tri-state area, it traverses several major peaks, offering a rigorous experience for hikers and peakbaggers. The trail is renowned for its steep ascents and descents through gaps between mountains, frequently requiring hikers to use both hands and feet to navigate rocky chutes and near-vertical sections. These challenging climbs are rewarded with extensive views across the Catskill range. While many hikers complete day trips to individual summits, determined individuals undertake the entire path in a single, long day, or spread it over a weekend backpacking trip. The trail's difficulty and scenic vistas attract hikers from both the immediate region and beyond.
Setting and Geography
The Devil's Path extends through the eastern escarpment of the Catskill Mountains, primarily within the 11,500-acre Indian Head Wilderness, part of the Catskill Forest Preserve. The wilderness area is characterized by rugged topography and includes five major peaks: Plattekill, Indian Head, Twin, Sugarloaf, and Plateau mountains. The Devil's Path crosses the summits of Indian Head, Twin, Sugarloaf, and Plateau mountains within this wilderness. Approximately 13.7 miles of the total trail traverse the Indian Head Wilderness. The Long Path, another significant hiking route, also passes through this wilderness, coinciding with parts of the Devil's Path from Plateau Mountain to east of Indian Head Mountain. Most of the trail lies on state-owned Forest Preserve land, managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
Recreation and Activities
Hiking is the primary activity on the Devil's Path, drawing thousands annually. Beyond the challenging Devil's Path itself, the Indian Head Wilderness offers a network of trails providing various hiking opportunities, including loop options for specific peaks like Sugarloaf Mountain or Indian Head Mountain. Primitive camping is also available, with designated tent sites and lean-tos near locations like Echo Lake, Devil's Kitchen, and the junction of Devil's Path and Mink Hollow Trail. At-large primitive camping is permitted under specific conditions. During winter months, the wilderness is open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on all hiking trails, though no groomed trails are maintained. Freshwater fishing is accessible in nearby Schoharie Creek, a known trout stream with public access.
Planning Your Visit
The Indian Head Wilderness, encompassing a significant portion of the Devil's Path, is open for recreation year-round. Hikers should be prepared for extremely rugged terrain and challenging conditions, especially on the Devil's Path. Parking is a critical consideration; visitors must park only at designated DEC parking lots, as parking restrictions are enforced on Route 23A and Platte Clove Road in the Town of Hunter, with illegally parked vehicles subject to ticketing and towing. It is advisable to have backup parking options, as lots can fill quickly. Always bring appropriate gear, water, and navigation tools. For any enforcement matters or emergencies, contact the NYS Rangers or 911. Be aware of and follow all state land rules and regulations to ensure a safe and responsible outdoor experience.
Route options
- Devil's Path25.2 miles
A popular and challenging trail extending from the Prediger Road Parking Area to County Route 6 (Spruceton Road). It crosses the summits of Indian Head, Twin, Sugarloaf, and Plateau mountains within the Indian Head Wilderness. The trail's rugged nature often requires using hands and feet for steep climbs.
- Warner Creek Trail3.0 miles
Extends from the Phoenicia Trail off Notch Inn Road to the Devil's Path. This trail coincides with the Long Path.
- Mink Hollow Trail5.3 miles
Travels from the end of Mink Hollow Road to the Mink Hollow Lean-to, then continues to the Devil's Path. It ends at the junction of the Roaring Kill Trail and the Pecoy Notch Trail.
- Pecoy Notch Trail1.8 miles
Connects the junction of the Roaring Kill Trail and Mink Hollow Trail to the Devil's Path.
- Jimmy Dolan Notch Trail1.6 miles
Connects two points along the Devil's Path, enabling a loop hike featuring Indian Head Mountain.
Sample itineraries
- Sugarloaf Mountain Loop · 1 day
Utilize the Pecoy Notch Trail, Mink Hollow Trail, Roaring Kill Trail, and a section of the Devil's Path to create a loop hike featuring Sugarloaf Mountain.
- Indian Head Mountain Loop · 1 day
Combine the Jimmy Dolan Notch Trail with sections of the Devil's Path for a loop hike focusing on Indian Head Mountain.
- Devil's Path Backpacking Trip · 2 days
Undertake a weekend trip along the Devil's Path, potentially utilizing designated primitive tent sites or lean-tos for overnight stays. This allows for a more spread-out experience of the challenging trail.
Seasonal conditions
Spring
March - May
Trails may be wet, muddy, or have lingering ice and snow, especially at higher elevations. Be prepared for variable weather and cooler temperatures.
Summer
June - August
Generally warm temperatures. Trails can be busy. Thunderstorms are possible. Be mindful of humidity and carry sufficient water.
Fall
September - November
Cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. Can be an ideal time for hiking, but prepare for rapidly changing weather, especially at higher elevations, and potential early snow. Trail surfaces may be covered with leaves, obscuring obstacles.
Winter
December - February
Cold temperatures, snow, and ice. Trails are open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Winter hiking requires specialized gear like microspikes or snowshoes and a high level of preparedness for harsh conditions.
| Season | Window | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | March - May | Trails may be wet, muddy, or have lingering ice and snow, especially at higher elevations. Be prepared for variable weather and cooler temperatures. |
| Summer | June - August | Generally warm temperatures. Trails can be busy. Thunderstorms are possible. Be mindful of humidity and carry sufficient water. |
| Fall | September - November | Cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. Can be an ideal time for hiking, but prepare for rapidly changing weather, especially at higher elevations, and potential early snow. Trail surfaces may be covered with leaves, obscuring obstacles. |
| Winter | December - February | Cold temperatures, snow, and ice. Trails are open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Winter hiking requires specialized gear like microspikes or snowshoes and a high level of preparedness for harsh conditions. |
Permits, fees & closures
Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger. Confirm specific permit requirements for other activities with the managing agency.
Fees: Free for general recreation.
Official source: Indian Head Wilderness - Department of Environmental Conservation · Verified September 17, 2026
Hazards & regulations
- Extremely rugged topography and steep sections requiring hand-and-foot climbing.
- Rapidly changing weather conditions, especially at higher elevations.
- Slippery trail surfaces due to wet rocks, mud, ice, or fallen leaves.
- Limited parking availability at designated lots, with strict enforcement against illegal parking.
- Hypothermia and dehydration risks if unprepared for conditions or lacking sufficient water.
What to pack for Catskills — Devil's Path
- Map (GeoPDF recommended)
- Compass or GPS device
- Sufficient water
- High-energy food
- First-aid kit
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Sun protection
- Knife or multi-tool
- Whistle
- Fire starter
- Layered clothing appropriate for the season
- Rain gear (jacket and pants)
- Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
- Moisture-wicking socks
- Hat and gloves (especially in cooler seasons)
- Snowshoes
- Microspikes or crampons
- Warm, insulated layers
- Gaiters
- Insulated water bottle to prevent freezing
Catskills — Devil's Path FAQ
- Are there any fees to access the Indian Head Wilderness or Devil's Path?
- No, access to the Indian Head Wilderness, which includes the Devil's Path, is free.
- Where can I park when visiting the Devil's Path?
- You must park only at designated DEC parking lots. There are strict parking restrictions on Route 23A and Platte Clove Road in the Town of Hunter, and illegally parked vehicles will be ticketed and towed. It is advisable to have backup parking options as lots can fill.
- Is primitive camping allowed?
- Yes, primitive camping is allowed. There are 10 designated tent sites and 3 lean-tos. At-large primitive camping is also permitted, provided campsites are at least 150 feet from roads, trails, or water. Camping for more than three nights or in groups of ten or more requires a permit from a Forest Ranger. Camping is prohibited above 3,500 feet from March 21 to December 21.
- What are the main challenges of hiking the Devil's Path?
- The Devil's Path is known for its extremely rugged topography, with steep ascents and descents that often require hikers to use their hands and feet to navigate rocky sections and chutes.
- Can I hike the Devil's Path in winter?
- Yes, the Indian Head Wilderness is open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter. While there are no groomed trails, all hiking trails are open for these activities. Winter hiking requires appropriate gear and preparedness for cold and icy conditions.