I followed the Skyline Trail back, staying west of Willard Peak to avoid re-ascending it and met back up with David for the trip back. While on Willard Peak, a green hill to the north enticed me, so I kept going down Willard Peak's north ridge (the standard route up) and over to the minor peak that I later found out was called Inspiration Point. David had already done Willard before and wanted to enjoy his lunch, so I continued on to the Class 2+ scramble that leads to the summit. From here, the trail follows a nice ridgeline to the southern base of Willard Peak. Follow the Castle Canyon trail for another two miles until reaching Inspiration Point. From the summit of where the ruins of Echo Mountain are located, backtrack 500 ft and follow the signs that point to the Castle Canyon trail leading to Inspiration Point. Eventually some switchbacks led to the summit of Ben Lomond Mountain. Follow this trail, the Sam Merill Trail for 3 miles until reaching Echo Mountain. Once higher up, the trail stays closer to the crest and the views become really nice. Unfortunately, the trail keeps off the ridge crest, instead staying to the north of it. I met up with a new friend, David! Starting from the trailhead, we set out on some obnoxious switchbacks leading to the ridgeline. Please note: Although Kaaterskill Falls is one of the most popular destinations in the Catskills, it. Trailhead parking: 103 Laurel House Rd, Palenville, NY 12463.

total elevation gain approximately 1,010 ft. One such hike is the Inspiration Point Trail located within the Shawnee National Forest. Kaaterskill Falls & Inspiration Point Loop Catskill Park. However, there are a few hikes with a little bit of elevation that lead to magnificent overlooks. From the ferry dock at the far end turn left and follow the signs towards Inspiration Point. I wanted something a bit more interesting, and found a much longer approach from the southeast by using the Skyline Trail. There aren’t too many hikes in the Prairie State that have a high elevation gain after all, the state’s highest point is Charles Mound at 1,235 feet. Find your hiking adventure Route Description for Inspiration Point For this hike we advise skipping the mediocre 4.0km hike around the lake and instead take the Jenny Lake boat shuttle. Ben Lomond Mountain and Willard Peak are more easily summitted from the north, where a bumpy drive leads to Willard Basin and a short hike goes to the top.

Inspiration point hike