Hiking the Sugarloaf Mountain loop in the Catskills
Hiking the Sugarloaf Mountain Loop via Mink Hollow Trail, Devil’s Path, and Pecoy Notch Trail
Looking for a thrilling Catskills loop hike? Tackle Sugarloaf Mountain via the Mink Hollow Trail, and Devil’s Path beginning at the Roaring Kill Trailhead. This 7-mile loop includes scrambles, stunning views, and a peaceful return via Pecoy Notch Trail. A must-do for Catskill 3500 peak-baggers and adventurous hikers.
If you're looking for a classic Catskills hike that combines rugged terrain, scenic views, and a true sense of adventure, the Sugarloaf Mountain Loop delivers. This 7+ mile route begins at the Roaring Kill Trailhead and offers a fantastic introduction to one of the more dramatic stretches of the Devil’s Path.
Sugarloaf Mountain Loop Hike Description
The Sugarloaf Mountain loop starts out gently at the Roaring Kill Trailhead on Roaring Kill Road in Elka Park. A short trail goes approximately 0.25 miles to the intersection between the Pecoy Notch Trail and the Mink Hollow Trail. Turn right at the trail junction on to the Mink Hollow Trail, which you will follow for about 2.5 miles.
The Mink Hollow Trail ascends up the shoulder of Sugarloaf Mountain, reaching a height of land where there are several old quarries. From there, the trail continues towards Mink Hollow, following a relatively flat contour to a viewpoint of Mink Hollow and Plateau Mountain. Here the trail descends steeply and then begins to climb gently to a creek crossing that can be difficult in high water. From the creek crossing, the Mink Hollow Trail begins ascending more steeply to the intersection with the Devil’s Path in Mink Hollow.
Once on the Devil’s Path, the trail quickly becomes very steep and rocky, featuring sustained climbs, scrambles, and ledges that are signature features of the Devil’s Path. It’s a physically demanding section, but also is incredibly scenic and rewarding.
The Devil’s Path continues to ascend steeply through a series of rock ledges before coming to the 3500 foot elevation sign. After this point, the grades moderate and the trail ascends more gently towards the summit.
Just before the summit, the trail intersects with a yellow marked side trail that goes to your right. Follow this short yellow trail a few hundred yards to a beautiful vista. Return back to the Devil’s Path and be sure to take a right to continue climbing.
After reaching Sugarloaf’s wooded summit, continue east along the Devil’s Path. Be sure to pause at the western ledges for excellent vistas across to Twin Mountain and the surrounding valleys.
The descent into Pecoy Notch is steep and rugged, so take your time. At the junction with the Pecoy Notch Trail, turn left on to the trail to begin your return to the Roaring Kill Trailhead. This final stretch is much gentler and includes highlights such as a beaver pond and Dibble’s Quarry.
From Pecoy Notch you’ll descend about a mile before you reach Dibble’s Quarry and all of its stone thrones and structures. This is defintely a place where it’s worth taking some time to enjoy the view of Kaaterskill High Peak, Roundtop, and the Platte Clove Valley. From the quarry it’s another 0.75 miles to the trail junction with the Mink Hollow Trail and 0.25 miles from there to return to your car at the Roaring Kill Trailhead.
Sugarloaf Mountain Loop Trail Details
Distance: ~7 miles
Elevation Gain: ~2,300 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Trailhead: Roaring Kill
Recommended Season: Late spring through fall
Dog-Friendly: Yes, for experienced trail dogs
Find out more about the Sugarloaf Mountain Loop
You can find out more about hiking the Sugarloaf Mountain Loop here:
Additional Catskill Park information is available at the Catskills Visitor Center (5096 Route 28 in Mt. Tremper) on the Web, Facebook, Instagram, and in person.
Hike On Guides: Need help on a hike like this? Moe is a NYS licensed hiking and backpacking guide. You can hire him for Hiking, Backpacking and Camping Guide Services at Hike On Guides for hikes in New York, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts.
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Gear we used on this hike:
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Important Hiking Considerations:
Weather: Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for changes in conditions.
Safety: Some sections of trail can be steep and rocky, others can be muddy, so use caution and always watch your footing.
Leave No Trace: As with any outdoor activity, remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Pack out any trash, stay on the trail, and be respectful of the natural environment.
Enjoy even more hikes in the Catskills with our Hiking the Catskills Playlist on YouTube!
