Description

This run has a little to offer to everyone.

At 5 miles round trip, you can enjoy the beautiful views and rich history atop Overlook Mountain.

For a longer run, continue to Echo Lake and experience the beauty of a serene, remote lake. This run begins at the trailhead along Meads Mountain Road, across from the Buddhist Temple.

Hikethehudsonvalley.com says it "...looks like it was ripped off a Tibetan mountainside and plunked down here in Woodstock." According to a press release in early 2018, an additional trailhead was completed nearby and serves as overflow due to the popularity of the area.

A new trail now connects the two lots and offers two additional overnight camping options, should you wish to spend the night in the area. This route predominately follows an old two-track, which leads to the remnants of a hotel and ranger station on Overlook Mountain.

Explore the rich history trapped in the ruins and climb the fire tower for a spectacular vantage point of the Hudson Valley and surrounding Catskills.

For an added bonus, a spur trail leads to an exposed overlook and offers an excellent opportunity to relax and enjoy the view.

Many day hikers turn around at the fire tower, unaware of this hidden gem just beyond. From here, you could either retrace your steps to the parking lot or continue onto Echo Lake.

Nestled along the southern base of Plattekill Mountain, the lake hosts a lean-to shelter and plenty of primitive camping along its shores.

Sources: https://www.nynjtc.org/destination/echo-lake#dialog-destination-overview https://www.dailyfreeman.com/news/new-trails-parking-area-open-on-overlook-mountain-in-woodstock/article_e903165c-afe6-565d-84ad-4e1b5742abc4.html https://hikethehudsonvalley.com/hikes/overlook-mountain/