Indian Head Mountain - One of the best loop hikes in the Catskills
Hiking Indian Head Mountain: Epic Catskills Loop via the Devil’s Path
Take on Indian Head Mountain via the Devil’s Path in this 7-mile Catskills loop hike with steep climbs, panoramic views, and classic rock scrambles—one of the most rewarding loops in the Catskills.
Indian Head Mountain is one of the Catskill 3500 peaks at 3,573 feet in elevation, and is located in the northeastern Catskills. The peak is the easternmost mountain in the Devil's Path Range and is traversed by the Devil’s Path. Thanks to the multiple trails in this area, Indian Head Mountain offers one of the best loop hikes in the Catskills with some challenging climbs and amazing views.
We think the best way to hike Indian Mountain is to beginning at the trailhead at the end of Prediger Road, following Devil's Path up and over Indian Head Mountain, and then descending the Jimmy Dolan Notch Trail back to the Devil's Path and out to the trailhead on Prediger Road.
This hike is one of our favorite climbs in the Catskills. It’s a fairly strenuous 7 mile hike that takes you up and over this peak. There's a lot of different terrain along the way, including some really rugged climbs up and through different rock ledges. There are also a number of amazing views along the way that won't disappoint any hiker.
We had a lot of fun introducing the Oklahomo Hiker to this area of the Catskills, along with a taste of the Devil's Path!
Indian Head Mountain Trail Guide
The Devil’s Path begins at the Prediger Road Trailhead and Parking Area. From here you’ll follow the red blazed Devil’s Path to the trail junction with the Jimmy Dolan Notch Trail. Stay on the Devil’s Path by going straight through the trail junction and staying on the red marked trail. You’ll traverse across the front of Indian Head Mountain and come to a trail junction with the Overlook Trail. You’ll turn right onto the Overlook Trail and follow it for a short distance to the next trail junction, where the Devil’s Path turns sharply to the right and begins climbing Indian Head Mountain. Follow the Devil’s Path up and over Indian Head Mountain, which includes several steep, rocky ledge sections you’ll have to climb through, and then descend to Jimmy Dolan Notch. In Jimmy Dolan Notch you’ll intersect with the Jimmy Dolan Notch Trail, which you’ll turn right on and begin descending the notch. You’ll follow the Jimmy Dolan Notch Trail all the way back to the first trail junction you went through at the start of your hike, and then follow the Devil’s Path back down to the Prediger Road Trailhead.
This is a difficult and strenuous hike of about 7 miles and includes just under 1700 feet of elevation gain. There are a number of climbs and descents through rock ledges, with one serious, challenging climb that could be difficult for some.
Indian Head Mountain Trail Details
🚶♂️ Distance: 7 miles
📈 Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet
🟠 Difficulty: Challenging
📍 Start/End: Prediger Road Trailhead (Google Maps)
💧 Water: Limited
🐾 Dogs: Allowed on leash
For More Information about the Indian Head Mountain Hike
You can find out more about this this hike here:
Additional Catskill Park information is available at the Catskills Visitor Center (5096 Route 28 in Mt. Tremper) On the Web, Facebook, and Instagram.
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.
🥾 Related Hikes in the Catskills
If you're tackling Indian Head Mountain, chances are you're ready for more of what the Catskills have to offer. These hikes are either nearby, part of the Devil’s Path, or serve up similarly rugged terrain and big payoffs:
Sugarloaf Mountain – Another Devil’s Path favorite with tough scrambles and sweeping summit views.
Overlook Mountain – A bit more relaxed, but still scenic, with ruins, a fire tower, and Hudson Valley views.
Kaaterskill High Peak – A lesser-traveled Catskill 3500 peak with a remote vibe and historical intrigue.
Whether you're working on your Catskill 3500s or just here for the challenge, these trails offer plenty more reasons to come back and put some more miles on your hiking boots.
Gear we used on this hike:
Some product links are affiliate links and we earn from qualifying purchases. Others are links through the Amazon Influencer program and as an Amazon Influencer, we earn from qualifying purchases. Still others, we just want you to know about some good gear we enjoy!
Important Hiking Considerations:
Weather: Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for changes in conditions.
Safety: Some sections of the trail can be steep and rocky, so use caution and 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.
The Catskills have more than 400 miles of trails to hike - join us in exploring them on our Hiking the Catskills playlist on YouTube!
