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A steep out-and-back with a little loop at the top.
Trailhead info at bottom of this post.
Hiking Trail Description
Hunter Mountain via Becker Hollow is the shortest route to highest-situated fire tower in New York State. It’s also one of the steepest trails in The Catskills.
This is also one of the most popular routes to the summit of Hunter. There are no technical challenges of any significance. But it’s still a beast. The work is all in the relentless climb: 2,000 feet of elevation gain in just two miles. On this route, you should prepare for so much glute-, quad- and calf-burning.
The steepness can make for challenging hiking conditions after rain, when the trail and rocks become wet. And you will absolutely need microspikes if there’s any hint of frost/ice/snow.
Luckily, the 360° view from Hunter’s fire tower is a solid reward for this short sharp shock of a hike.
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Hunter Mountain via Becker Hollow Hiking Trail
The Hunter Mountain via Becker Hollow trail includes…
- 2,200 feet of elevation gain in just over 2 miles — steep!
- One sweet footbridge
- Fire tower for your fire tower challenge
- Incredible views of surrounding high peaks and Catskills valleys
A full breakdown is provided in the hike notes below, with nine photos.
Hunter Mountain via Becker Hollow Hike Time
Allow 3-4 hours for this hike.
Hunter Mountain via Becker Hollow Elevation Gain
The elevation gain for this hike is 2,200 feet (apx 670 meters).
Hunter Mountain via Becker Hollow Trail Notes & Gallery
This easy-to-navigate route begins at the Becker Hollow parking area.
You’ve got the basic details, but there’s so much more…
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Similar Hikes
Check this list of the steepest trails on this site.
My favorite way to hike Hunter is via the Spruceton Trail.
Time to get working on your Fire Tower Challenge?
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Hunter Mountain via Becker Hollow Trail Trailhead
Medium-sized lot, popular.
Google Maps Location: 42.182187, -74.196572
The map below shows the exact topographic location of the trailhead
Cell Service
You will only have reliable service up high on this route. My network is Verizon. YMMV.
The parent mountain for this hike is Hunter.