Onteora Mountain
Quick Look - Onteora Mountain | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Difficulty | Round trip | Total climb | Location | Internet Maps | |
3.2 mi. | 1140 ft. | N42.2221 W74.1683 | Google Maps |
The summit of Onteora Mountain is on private land as are all of the approaches to the mountain. Permission must be obtained from the private properties owners to hike anywhere on this peak. There are no views from the actual summit but an incredible viewpoint is available just below the summit on the southeast side of the mountain. You may find this viewpoint on the way up or the way down but DO NOT MISS IT! This lookout offers a view of the buildings of the Onteora Golf Club below including Onteora Pond and the Tannersville reservoir. The low mountains in the foreground are dwarfed by the high peaks behind them. The view starts with the Blacks on the left followed by Roundtop and Kaaterskill High Peak and then the Devil's Path from Indian Head to Plateau and the beginning of Hunter Mountain. Another viewpoint offers a view of Hunter but is partially obscured by trees.
After getting permission to hike, I headed toward my goal which was a stand of evergreens I could see near the top of the mountain. I walked in a generally westerly direction and UP. The mountain has some marked trails and old woods roads both of which are overgrown and seem seldom used which is a shame. Some signs may indicate the way to certain lookouts if you can read them. Many of the roads and trails are overgrown and you may want to take a more direct route by bushwhacking. Be aware that there are some impressive cliff bands to work through or around and some stands of prickers when in season. Once you have gained the summit make sure you walk to the south off the summit to get to the lookout mentioned above unless you already visited it on the way up. To return you may retrace your ascent or strike out on a slightly new track.