A notoriously steep 25.2-mile ridge route across six Catskill summits, run by NYS DEC. Almost no switchbacks; one of the hardest marked trails in the eastern US.
“Traverse Catskill Park (NY) on the Devil's Path.”
Plan your Catskill Park (NY) trip here, then get your permit from the agency.
Walk-up permit
How to get Devil's Path
Devil's Path is issued by the agency rather than through a booking calendar. Their page has the current process and any dates.
More about Catskill Park (NY)Planning another trip? See the permits we alert on.
Devil's Path permit season
- route distance, point to point
- 25.2mi
How to get a Devil's Path permit
As of September 2026, Devil's Path in Catskill Park (NY), New York requires a permit issued via walk-up. Devil's Path rates 6/10 on PermitSnag's demand index. The Devil's Path route covers 25.2 miles, rated expert.
- Type
- Thru-Hike
- Location
- NY
How this permit is issued
Get this permit in person at the trailhead or ranger station, or by phone.
Step 1: Check the agency page for the process
This permit is not sold online. Confirm where and when it is issued (and any fee) at the managing agency's website before your trip.
Step 2: Arrive early
Walk-up permits are issued first-come, first-served. Where the agency sets a daily quota, popular trailheads can run out on weekends and holidays.
Step 3: Have backup plans
Popular trailheads fill fast. Know alternate routes or dates.
More on Devil's Path: Live availability activity
The Devil's Path hike
- Distance
- 25.2 miles
- Route Type
- Point to Point
- Duration
- 2-4 days
- Difficulty
- Expert
Devil's Path elevation profile
Prediger Road parking area (east terminus) to County Route 6 / Spruceton Road (west terminus)Prediger Road parking area (east terminus)
Eastern trailhead of the Devil's Path in the Indian Head Wilderness, per the DEC.
- Mile
- 0.0
- Elevation
- 1,917 ft
- From start
- +0 ft
Eastern trailhead of the Devil's Path in the Indian Head Wilderness, per the DEC.
First of the five named summits the Devil's Path crosses directly, per the DEC.
Three tent sites and a lean-to sit at this junction, per DEC trail information.
Second named summit on the Devil's Path ridge route.
Third named summit on the Devil's Path ridge route.
Fourth named summit on the Devil's Path ridge route.
Fifth and final named summit before the western terminus, per the DEC.
Western trailhead of the Devil's Path, per the DEC.
How hard the Devil's Path hike is
- Physical DemandFitness and endurance required5/5
- Technical SkillClimbing, scrambling, or specialized skills3/5
- NavigationRoute finding and trail clarity3/5
- CommitmentDifficulty of bailing out mid-route4/5
Best for: Experienced hikers with excellent fitness and relevant technical skills.
Recommended experience: Should have completed 10+ mile day hikes with significant elevation gain.
When to hike Devil's Path
Weather Forecast
Trailhead (5,000 ft)
Backcountry Tips
- Today: Wind gusts to 47mph. Secure tent, avoid exposed ridges.
- Today: 95% chance of precipitation. Pack rain gear.
- Tomorrow: 89% chance of precipitation. Pack rain gear.
Today
56°
53°
95%
Mon
57°
49°
89%
Tue
62°
49°
Wed
68°
50°
Thu
77°
56°
Fri
64°
45°
Sat
56°
39°
Devil's Path rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Devil's Path.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Devil's Path · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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Devil's Path FAQ
Do I need a permit to backpack the Devil's Path?
Only for a stay over three nights at one spot or a group of ten or more, via a DEC Forest Ranger.
How long is the Devil's Path?
25.2 miles, from Prediger Road to County Route 6 (Spruceton Road).
How many mountains does the Devil's Path cross?
Five: Indian Head, Twin, Sugarloaf, Plateau, and West Kill.
Can I camp above 3,500 feet on the Devil's Path?
No, not from March 21 through December 21.
Are there lean-tos on the Devil's Path?
Yes, at the Mink Hollow Trail junction, with three tent sites.
Why is the Devil's Path considered so difficult?
It climbs straight up and down five summits with little switchbacking.
How far from water or the trail must I camp on the Devil's Path?
At least 150 feet from any trail, road, or water.
Devil's Path trail conditions and trip reports
Trail Conditions
No active conditions reported
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Questions
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Trip Reports
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