Adventure Collective
Conquer Devil’s Path with Upstate Hiking in Catskills - Albany, NY

Conquer Devil’s Path with Upstate Hiking in Catskills

Medusaexpert

Difficulty

expert

Duration

6–10 hours

Fitness Level

Requires strong cardiovascular endurance and upper-body strength for scrambles; prior hiking experience recommended.

Overview

Tackle New York’s Devil’s Path with Upstate Hiking and conquer six rugged summits over 20 miles. Expert guides, inspiring views, and unforgettable adventure await in the Catskills.

Medusa, New York

Hike the Devil’s Path

Ages 18+ • 6 - 10 Hours • Can Accommodate up to 6 Hikers

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About This Adventure

Embark on an exhilarating adventure along the legendary Devil’s Path in the Great Northern Catskills, where you'll conquer six summits over 20 miles of rugged terrain. Experience breathtaking views, challenging scrambles, and unique photo opportunities, all while receiving expert guidance and support tailored to your skill level.

Challenging hikes along one of the country’s most (in)famous trails.

Duration

6–10 Hours

About

Crossing 6 summits and spanning over 20 miles through the Great Northern Catskills, the Devil’s Path will challenge and reward you in ways that few other trails do. Step up for the adventure – and you’re in for a wild day. We’ve done them all the summits and surrounding trails multiple times – so we’ll help choose just the right one for your skill level and aspirations for the day.

Hike Overview

The Devil’s Path is probably the most famous trail in the Catskills – some might even say infamous. The rugged terrain, tough scrambles, and significant elevation gain makes for a challenging – but rewarding day. The Devil’s Path can be done in sections, or in one grueling day – but not for the faint of heart. The trail crosses 6 summits – and much of the fun is had between the peaks, with features including waterfalls, cliffs, challenging scrambles, cracks, meadows, quarries and more.

Whether you’re looking to break off a chunk – or conquer the entire Devil’s Path – we’ve got you covered. We’ll consult with you to design the perfect route that will both get the heart racing as we tackle the terrain, and the soul satisfied when we savor the views from the summits above 3,500 feet.

Devil’s Path Summits include:

  • Indian Head
  • Twin Mountain
  • Sugarloaf
  • Plateau
  • Westkill
  • Hunter

Our Devil’s Path hikes are typically 6-10 hours, but can be longer depending on the route that we take and the summit(s) we visit. Having some prior hiking experience is strongly encouraged, as there will be sections of the trail that require some upper body strength – and fortitude – to make it through. If you are looking to conquer the entire trail – it’s highly recommended to combine it with a night or two of camping.

And – there’s no shortage of unique and creative photo opportunities along the way – over the years, we’ve found some of the coolest trail features, photo angles, and things you might miss out on your own – and we’ll be getting pictures of it all. It’s an adventure in itself just looking back through the pictures from your hike.

What’s Included?

Sometimes it can feel like there’s a lot to plan when heading out for a hike – especially one along the Devil’s Path. From choosing the best route, finding its best features along the way, planning how much water to carry and where to park – we’ve got you covered. All you need is to grab a few things, hydrate well, and get ready for an incredible day.

  • Trail Guidance with Licensed Guide
  • Feedback and improvement of your hiking techniques
  • Candid, action and posed photography throughout the trek
  • Light snacks and small picnic at the summit
  • Any parking fees or trail admission fees
  • Bug Spray, rain gear, backpack, if needed

What You Need

  • Sturdy, closed toed shoes
  • Water
  • Snacks
  • Backpack (available to lend if needed)
  • Any personal medications
  • Light jacket
  • Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Trekking Poles (optional)

Adventure Tips

Train for endurance and strength

The Devil’s Path demands stamina and upper-body strength due to steep scrambles and long distances. Prepare with cardio and strength workouts.

Start early to maximize daylight

Plan your hike to begin at dawn for ample time to complete the trail safely within 6-10 hours, especially in shorter daylight seasons.

Bring adequate water and snacks

Water sources on the trail can be limited; carry enough hydration and light, high-energy snacks to sustain energy levels.

Use sturdy footwear with grip

Wear trail boots or shoes with solid traction to handle rocky scrambles and potentially slippery sections on the trail.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • White-tailed deer
  • Black bear

History

The Devil’s Path is one of the oldest hiking routes in the Catskills, known since early 20th century for its ruggedness and scenic vistas.

Conservation

Upstate Hiking promotes Leave No Trace principles to protect delicate ecosystems including fragile alpine flora along the summits.

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Adventure Hotspots in Albany, NY

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Trail boots

Essential

Provides ankle support and traction necessary for steep, rocky terrain.

Hydration system

Essential

Water bottles or hydration packs keep you hydrated through long stretches without reliable water sources.

Layered clothing

Essential

Allows temperature regulation as conditions change rapidly during the hike.

Headlamp

Useful for early starts or late finishes when daylight hours are limited.

fall|winter specific