Devil's Path - Eastern Section

A small group of us are considering our spring 2015 hike to be on the Eastern Section of Devil's Path in the Catskills. This would be a 2 day, 1 night trip. Our intention would be to start at the PL on Prediger Road, loop eastward past Devil's Kitchen Lean-To, over Indian Head, Twin and Sugarloaf Mountains and finish Day 1 at the Mink Hollow Lean-To (approx. 9.5 miles). Day 2 would take us over Plateau Mountain and then down to Devil's Tombstone Campground PL (approx. 4.5 miles).

Questions:
We are all beginner/intermediate hikers ranging in fitness levels from poor to decent. Is this trip doable in the timeframe we intend? We would be at the TH Day 1 around 10am (driving from 3+ hours away plus drop a car at the end).

I've read conflicting reports on the condition and availability of camping at the Mink Hollow Lean-To. Anyone have recent intel?

I've read on a few different websites that there may be 1 or more natural springs along the way. However, I'm concerned how dated that information may be. Does anyone know of any reliable water sources (preferably close to the Mink Hollow Lean-To)?

Thanks!

I don't know that area, but 9.5 miles in the mountains (with lots of elevation changes) seems like it would be pretty problematic for someone in poor physical condition. Your 10 AM start time seems a bit challenging given how much driving you will have to do that morning.

Late start, challenging hike, poor physical conditioning sounds like a recipe for disaster. You talk about a small group of people, unless you have actually done some backpacking together their will probably be some people who have exaggerated their level of conditioning and experience.

We have all backpacked together and have completed similar hikes, although I would say this itinerary is slightly more challenging than previously completed trips. Of everyone in the group, I am in the poorest physical shape. We completed a trip 2 years ago that had more mileage but less elevation gain/loss but my pack weight at the time was also considerably higher. I've made some purchases and concessions to drop my pack weight more than 10 pounds.

We've done day hikes in the 12-15 mile range with similar elevation challenges but much lighter packs and felt good but dog-tired at the end. Taking all of that into consideration, I am guardedly optimistic that we can complete this trip without issue. I guess my thinking is that I want to continue to challenge ourselves a little bit each trip until age forces us to slow down.

Las resort, there is a col at the 6.5 mile mark of the hike that we could set up camp IF the mileage and elevation prove to be too much...

Grabbed from here. After reading that I'd say it's a bit ambitious for someone in poor shape. More time would be a good idea if you're determined.

You have some time to improve your conditioning. May be well worth the effort. I try to stay in shape for hiking as much as I can as I get older. Lots of benefits.

To be honest, I didn't know about the 10' vertical. Sounds like fun though!

I believe this is the vertical climb. Wouldn't wanna do it w/o ditching the pack.

So I ran this pic past the other members of my party and I'm giving them some time to decide if they want to tackle this trip or not. So a little more information about my group, I am in the least optimal physical shape out of the bunch but the most adventurous so naturally my inclination is to say "go for it". If the more level-headed members decide they want to try it, I've officially run out of excuses.

That being said, I have been studying the maps of this trail and noticed the col between Twin Mtn and Sugarloaf Mtn called Pecoy Notch. According to the topo, this area of the trail is below 3500' of elevation so fair game for camping. This would be our fall back plan should the day 1 mileage and elevation be too much - it would just mean an equally hard day 2. So my question is this - the map does not show any reliable water source in this area. Has anyone hiked this trail and noticed a water source near Pecoy Notch that would serve as a resupply should we choose to camp there? Thanks for any intel you can provide!

A friend has hiked this and reported no water. One of the reasons for the paths name is that it is hell, not a beginner trail.

I've been on the Devil's Path many times and I have to be honest, if you're planning on carrying an overnight pack on this stretch you need to be in pretty good shape. A slow and steady approach will work but you're still going to give your legs and lungs a workout. Also, be advised that if it's been raining portions of the trail may be pretty slick. That crack will take some teamwork to get you all safely up. I've seen people with day packs that have difficulty at that point. I'm not trying to steer you away because this is a wonderful trip but you do need to consider what you're getting into.

As for water, there is a water source available just after the Devil's Path turns off with the trail leading to Overlook Mt. Just past this junction there is a lean-to and a reliable stream. You can also drop down, as you already mentioned, from the notch between Twin & Sugarloaf to a pond where you'll be able to find water. Be aware that this is a beaver pond so plan accordingly for your water treatment. After that you'll need to wait until the spring that's on the way up to Plateau for your next option. In dry summers the lack of water adds another challenge to this trip.

One last thing, if I remember correctly "Backpacker" magazine listed the Devil's Path in it's "Top 10 Most Difficult Trails" article not too long ago. Whether you like the magazine or not, the trail really lives up to that billing. Add all the elevation gain/loss, lack of water and rocky terrain and you are definitely presenting yourself with a challenge.

Just my two cents. Take it for what it's worth.

Until next time...Be well.

snapper