Catskill Backpack - Devil's Path
Details
In order to officially secure your spot on this event and to receive the details email of where to exactly park and meet with us you must register on our site by clicking the link below.
Our events typically fill up at 16 people for guided backpacking trips! You won't see the attendees here on meetup as registrations are on our site but we wanted to let you know that we typically see large outings for all of our events!
The Devil's Path is the capstone of our Advanced Catskill Backpacking Series.
For those on their Catskill 3500 quest, we will be summiting Indian Head, Twin, Sugarloaf, Plateau, & West Kill, as well as St. Anne's Peak, part of The Catskill 67. Those who choose can optionally wake early on the last day to also summit Hunter and Southwest Hunter for a total of seven 3500 peaks!
Widely regarded as one of the most demanding traverses in the Northeast, this route is defined by steep ascents, sharp descents, relentless elevation change, and very little room for inefficiency.
Over the course of this weekend, we will:
• Manage sustained, aggressive elevation gain and loss
• Navigate technical, rugged footing with the full packs
• Maintain disciplined pacing across extended mountain days
• Truly thrive in one of the most challenging trails in our part of the country
The Devil’s Path is not long because of mileage — it is demanding because of terrain. The climbs are direct. The descents are unforgiving. Energy management becomes critical.
Day 1 - 2 miles, 350' up, 100' down - setting up camp after sunset
Day 2 - 6 miles, 3,100' up, 2,750' down
Day 3 - 6 miles, 2,900' up, 2,000' down Day 4 - 9 miles, 2,150' up, 3,900' down
Participants should:
• Be highly confident carrying a multi-day pack over steep terrain • Have completed prior TrailBound advanced backpacking trips • Be prepared for significant cumulative elevation gain
• Be comfortable in sustained, rugged mountain conditions
This is not about speed. It is about control, competence, and commitment. A truly rewarding experience comes from completion!
Prerequisites: TBP Backpacking Intro, Easy, and Moderate trips, or equivalent. Email info@trailboundproject.com to discuss equivalents for approval.
Minimum Gear: 50-70 liter backpack, shelter (tent, tarp shelter, bivy, or hammock), sleeping bag, sleeping pad, small pillow, lighter, water bottles or bladder for 4-5 liters of water, water filter, small knife, 75’ paracord, cell phone with USB charger & cable, headlamp & extra batteries, canister stove & fuel, cooking pot, utensils, food & snacks, bear hang food bag, first aid kit, personal toiletries, clothing for the weather, & hiking boots. A detailed packing list will be emailed to students after registration and you can contact us with any questions.
Minimum Age: 12 years old - the minor(s) and a parent/guardian must all be paid registered participants.