Sunset
Planning Your Sunset Hike
Sunset hikes are so rewarding but they do require additional planning and gear. After a long day, you’ll be hiking down in the dark.
At the very least, you‘ll need a headlamp — with extra batteries, just in case. Your phone’s tiny light definitely will not cut it. And a handheld flashlight is a terrible idea because you’ll want both hands free at all times. Get a headlamp.
Make sure to leave your hike plan and emergency numbers with somebody reliable.
You can read more planning and prep tips in my How to Shoot Sunrises post.
Halcott, Sunset Bushwhack
I didn’t think too much of Halcott when I did it last spring, but this hike changed my mind. There’s a lot to see: the woods are spectacular, the ravines are beautiful and, at sunset, the summit is a Catskill photographer’s dream.
Indian Head Hiking Trail (Best Route)
Fantastic terrain, epic views, a beloved cliff ascent, a long boreal summit, a steep and rugged descent, and an easy walk out through beautiful woods — this is my absolute favorite single-mountain hike in the Catskills.
Plateau from Mink Hollow
This is the shortest/fastest way to climb Plateau. Mink Hollow Trailhead & Parking The parking area at the north end of the Mink Hollow trail is marked on the NYNJTC maps in gray, which signifies “roadside parking”. In fact, it’s a dead end/cul-de-sac that look like it functions as a snow plow turnaround.
Indian Head & Twin (Sunset Hike)
This is my favorite hike in the Catskills. It has everything the Catskills can give you: classic Catskills forests, rugged terrain, excellent scrambles, and jaw-dropping scenic views.
