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A reversed lollipop route where the stick leads to the summit.
Hiking Alander Mountain via Robert Brook Trail makes for a quieter and mellower hike than the routes that start at the northern or eastern trailheads.
These trails have so much going on. This is great short workout hike with an easy warm up, some uphill huffing, beautiful varied forest, rock scrambles, great views and even a cabin to visit.
The Taconics are hugely under-appreciated and under-hiked. Alander is also frequently included in Berkshire mountain lists, so there is overlap here for anyone visiting and enjoying the Berkshires.
But hear me out — Alander is truly a Taconic Mountain!
One last note: in summer months, you’ll need lots of bug-spray.
BTW, you might also enjoy…
- ADK › Whiteface Mountain via Marble Mountain
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Alander Mountain via Robert Brook Trail
The Alander via Robert Brook Trail includes…
- Steep uphill grind
- Short road walk with a flat start and end
- Wonderful solitude along trails peppered with interesting markers
- Beautiful Hudson Valley views
- An open summit
- A creepy cabin you can sleep in overnight if you’re exceptionally brave
A full breakdown is provided in the hike notes below, with 21 photos.
Alander Mountain via Robert Brook Trail Hike Time
Allow 3-4 hours for this hike.
Warning! In warmer months, this hike includes potential exposure to rattlesnakes.
Alander Mountain via Robert Brook Trail Elevation Gain
The elevation gain for this hike is 1495 feet (apx 455 meters).
Alander Mountain via Robert Brook Trail: Notes & Gallery
Begin at the small roadside parking area, across from a house. Do not block anyone’s drive. Walk downhill a short distance until you see the trailhead leading into the woods.
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Similar Hikes
All Taconic hikes are special. They are so different from the Catskills: the terrain, the flora, the views. Do yourself a favor and get over there some time!
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Alander Mountain via Robert Brook Trail Trailhead
Small roadside lot. Walk back downhill to get to the trailhead.
Google Maps Location: 42.064900, -73.515047
The map below shows the exact topographic location of the trailhead
Cell Service
Decent up high, expect low signal at trailhead and down low My network is Verizon. YMMV.
The parent mountain for this hike is Alander.
