South Beacon Mt and Scofield Overlook via Casino Trail
Details
🥾 Hike: South Beacon Mt and Scofield Overlook via Casino Trail (Red)
Early start to secure parking (very popular on weekends) and to beat the heat expected later in the day. Please arrive 10-15 min early and look for White Volvo XC90
📍 Beacon NY
- Distance: ~4.8 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: ~1,551 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated Time: ~2-2.5 hours
- Hike Leader: Victor Shinsky 413-847-0798
## Description
This route starts at the base of the mountain at Mount Beacon Park. After an initial climb using a metal staircase, you ascend moderately steeply onto the Casino Trail. This is mostly old washed out ski trails. The first stop is at the ruins of the casino (as well as the machinery which hauled the railroad up), from which there are great views to the west and northwest. You continue the ascent (generally much less steep now) until reaching the old route of the Breakneck Ridge Trail (blazed with various colors). Here you turn right to reach the Beacon fire tower with its incredible panoramic view, ranging from New York City to the south to the and Catskill Mountains to the north. You then retrace your steps to the Casino Trail at which point you turn right. Continue (over generally flat terrain) until the Casino Trail ends at an intersection with the Wilkinson Trail (yellow), onto which you turn left, aiming for Scofield Ridge. There are two separate outlook points which offer views of the NYC skyline.
## What to Expect
- Sustained uphill climbing with some steep, rocky sections
- A solid workout — this is not a casual stroll
- Scenic overlooks and historic ruins
- Incredible 360 multi-state views from the fire tower
## Recommended Gear
- Hiking shoes or boots with good traction (no sneakers)
- Water with electrolytes and snacks
- Weather-appropriate layers
Additional transportation option:
The City of Beacon offers a Free Loop Bus that takes hikers from the Metro North Train Station to the South Beacon and Scofield Overlook via Casino Trail Head. The bus leaves the train station every 30 minutes from 6 am to 9 pm Monday through Saturday and takes 15 minutes to get to the trail head. To view the most up to date schedule, click here https://www.dutchessny.gov/Departments/Public-Transit/Docs/Public-Transit-Route-G.pdf.
## Important Disclaimer
By RSVPing, you acknowledge that “Northeast Hikes with Big Views” is not a professional outdoor organization. The sole purpose of this group is to enjoy the outdoors with like-minded adventurers.
As a participant, you understand that you are responsible for your own preparedness and well-being and will hold no one else liable in the event of injury. By attending, you agree to release “Northeast Hikes with Big Views” and all individuals associated with the group from liability for injuries or incidents that may occur during the hike.