Devil’s Path Backpacking (West-to-East)

This 2-day hike is for experienced hikers only and will be very challenging for those who hike infrequently. Devil’s Path is regarded by many as one of the most difficult trails in New York. Please make sure you have all of the appropriate personal gear listed in this gear list.

Logistics and Meeting Point

• Meeting Time: 8:00 PM, 6/26/2026
• Location: Prediger Road Trailhead (Prediger Trail Head Road, Elka Park, NY 12427)
• Route: Link to AllTrails
• Transport: There is no public transportation option to Prediger Road Trailhead. We will organize a carpool from NYC and Jersey City via WhatsApp.

Route
This route traverses the entire “Devil’s Path” in the Catskill Mountains, known for both sweeping views and punishing terrain. Devil’s Path has earned a reputation as one of (if not the) most challenging trails per mile in New York – expect plenty of hand-over-hand scrambles, steep nests of tree roots, mud, rock, and gurgling streams. This 2-day trip breaks the trail into 15 mi (5,400 ft gain) and 10 mi (3,000 ft gain) sections, for back-to-back endurance efforts. Our camping logistics will be such that you can opt to hike with a fully-weighted pack or pack-free, on the first day. See this document for details.

Event Details

• Date: June 26-28, 2026
• Distance: ~25 miles
• Elevation Gain: ~8,400 feet
• Intensity: Advanced
• Max Group Size: 10 people

Lead Volunteer: Sigrun Anderson