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A delightful, short, moderate loop.
Hiking Trail Description
This short moderate loop over Vroman’s Nose is one of the most popular hikes in The Catskills—for all the best hiking reasons.
Even on a cloudy day with patchy views, the views of the incredible Schoharie Valley below—wide, flat, and richly agricultural — are some of the most unusual and striking views in the whole of New York State.
The valley below is geologically fascinating, and even the drive through the towns of Schoharie and Middleburgh feels special. This is an absolutely remarkable part of New York State.
There are several places to begin your hike Vroman’s Nose. I hope to try them all. The route shown on this trail guide is the classic route, which is easiest on the legs.
This hike is one of the most rewarding short hikes you can do in the entire Hudson Valley.
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Vroman’s Nose Hiking Trail
The Vroman’s Nose hiking trail includes…
- A quick ascent
- Multiple scenic ledges
- Dangerous cliff edges
- Peregrine falcon nesting sites
Vroman’s Nose Elevation gain
The elevation gain for this hike is just 400 feet (apx 120 meters).
Vroman’s Nose Hike Time
Allow 1-2 hours for this hike, depending on how long you want to spend hanging out on the ledges. Monitor pets and small children closely at the cliffy sections.
Vertigo to Go?
Warning: the main cliff edge, here, is very cliffy. While the summit is safe to walk, the drop-off itself is sheer. The valley floor is far below, and one has a strong sense of flying or falling.
On Nov. 12, 2023, at 3:35 p.m., Ray Brook Dispatch requested Forest Ranger assistance in the rescue of a hiker experiencing a panic attack at the summit of Vroman’s Nose. It’s definitely a fun one.
Peregrine Falcon Nesting Sites
Each year, a small section of this trail is closed and rerouted away from the nesting area of peregrine falcons which are an endangered species. Please respect the signage you may see here February 1 – July 31. The short detour is lovely.
Vroman’s Nose Trail Notes & Gallery
After about 1000 feet of Entrance Trail, turn right at the first junction…
Ignore the Crossover Trail to your left on the way up.
The first ledge is only a teaser, so keep climbing…
On this day, the second ledge wasn’t up to much either…
You may notice some aquamarine-colored Long Path trail blazes on this route…
The higher you get, the more the views begin to open up…
The cliff top is pretty sheer…
The Dance Floor
Make your way to a massive, gorgeous ledge known as The Dance Floor. (You can read about its geology at The Catskill Geologist.) This is an amazing location for a picnic. The views are incredible…
You’ve got the basic details, but there’s so much more…
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I can’t wait to revisit Vroman’s Nose — on a clear day!
Similar Hikes
Check out this list of the most scenic hikes I’ve done.
You might also enjoy this list of short hikes.
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The parent mountain for this hike is Vroman’s Nose.
If you do this hike, LMK how it went…
Trailhead Info for this Hike
Large lot for very popular destination.
Google Maps Location: 42.594722, -74.358407
The map below shows the exact topographic location of the trailhead
Cell Service
Very weak signal in parking area. Good signal up high. My network is Verizon. YMMV.
