HikerLong Path Section 23: Palenville to North Lake Campground
Historic travel routes climb from Palenville toward North–South Lake. The Harding Road and former grand-hotel landscape invite comparison between modern trails and nineteenth-century mountain tourism.
Make this outing your own
Make this a walking-and-reading day if time allows. The former travel routes and hotel landscape invite curiosity, but the climb and full section still need their own time budget. Read the relevant history before departure so the on-trail stops can be brief, focused and respectful of other hikers.
The published mileage is one way. Arrange the return journey or choose an accurately mapped partial out-and-back before departure.
Before you head out
Arrange transport between the two ends before you start. Save the official section map and any current detours, set a turnaround time, and check weather and daylight for the whole route. A section can take several outings: mark it complete only after covering its full required route.
Keep these essentials in your plan
- Save the official map and directions while you have reception.
- Tell someone your route and expected return, and set a turnaround time.
- Pack water, food, layers and a headlamp for the full outing.
- Check current closures, permits, weather and parking with the land manager.
Read the landscape
Use the historic-map viewer to compare an area where coverage is available. Look for changes in road alignments, settlement symbols and rail corridors; record observations from public trails. A map symbol alone does not identify a surviving structure or a public right of way.
After the hike
Choose a town stop near your finish or return drive, rather than adding an uncertain trail detour. Dry shoes, water and a meal can turn a demanding section into a comfortable day out.
Town, food & history planning sources
- Great Northern Catskills · town and trip planning ↗
- Ulster County · towns, food and places to visit ↗
- Sullivan Catskills · places to eat ↗
These are regional planning resources, not verified nearby or currently open businesses. Check the actual drive and opening hours.
Keep exploring this collection
Long Path Section 22: Platte Clove Road to Palenville
Kaaterskill High Peak’s northern slopes lead toward Palenville, combining gentler old-road or snowmobile-trail walking with a steeper descent. Quarry and transport history add another…
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Long Path Section 24: North Lake CG to Batavia Kill
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