Easy Escarpment Trail Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Views

The Escarpment Trail is riddled with amazing viewpoints that will reward you all along your run.

This is a popular destination, accessible by visitors from the campground as well as the Kaaterskill Falls crowd.

Port-a-potties are available in the Laurel House parking lot.

Trails in the Catskills are rugged. Beware of loose rocks, mud, and steep climbs. Also, in the winter, traction devices are a must. Also, be vigilant of steep drops offs by the viewpoints.

Runners will leave from the newly enhanced parking lot off of Laurel House Road that serves Kaaterskill Falls and the observation platform.

Runners will cross over the new pedestrian bridge and follow the DEC signs to the blue-blazed Escarpment Trail.

The initial section of this run is a rocky descent, down to Layman's Monument.

The trail then turns along the Escarpment, and runners will have a fairly easy stretch of trail to enjoy. There are several amazing viewpoints including Inspiration Point. The tread is well maintained, but watch for tripping hazards.

There are several options to extend or shorten this run, but follow the yellow-tagged equestrian trail (Yellow Horse Trail), which is a nice flat trail back towards the Kaaterskill Falls area. This part of run has you essentially following what appears to be an old wood road that has begun to fill back in and been well maintained.

The trail intersections can be tricky; when the yellow-blazed trail returns to the blue Escarpment Trail, turn left and head back to your starting point.