Belleayre Mountain via Lost Clove and Belleayre Ridge

The trailhead for the Lost Clove Trail, which is the starting point for this route, is typically accessed from Lost Clove Road. Parking is usually available near the trailhead, though it's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on busy weekends, to secure a spot.

Yes, the Belleayre Mountain via Lost Clove and Belleayre Ridge trail is generally dog-friendly. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and for the safety of other hikers, as is standard practice in Catskill Park.

This trail offers different experiences throughout the year. Winter provides unique views through bare trees and can be quite scenic, though the steep Lost Clove section may require crampons or snowshoes due to ice and snow. Summer brings abundant wildflowers, especially around Sunset Lodge, and clear panoramic views. Fall offers spectacular foliage. Spring can be muddy and buggy.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Belleayre Mountain via Lost Clove and Belleayre Ridge trail or other public trails within Catskill Park.

This hike is considered moderate. The initial Lost Clove Trail section involves a significant and often steep climb, gaining over 1,300 feet in about 1.3 miles, which can be challenging. Once on the Belleayre Ridge Trail, the hiking becomes much easier and flatter, though the terrain can still be uneven and rocky.

The Lost Clove Trail section often follows an old woods or logging road, which can have loose stone underfoot. As you ascend, you might encounter various logging roads branching off. The Belleayre Ridge Trail, in contrast, is wide and generally easy to follow, even if somewhat overgrown in parts. You'll also traverse areas integrated with the Belleayre Ski Center, including ski slopes and near lifts.

While the lower Lost Clove Trail offers limited views, as you gain elevation and reach Belleayre Ridge, the scenery opens up considerably. You can enjoy views of the Devil's Path mountains to the north, as well as Halcott, Mount Sherrill, Balsam Lake Mountain, and Dry Brook Ridge from clearings and the ski slopes. The area around Sunset Lodge provides panoramic north-facing views.

Yes, the trail passes through the Belleayre Ski Center, offering a unique experience of hiking across ski slopes and near facilities like Sunset Lodge, which can be a great lunch spot. You'll also pass near the site of a former fire tower on the eastern peak. There are two lean-tos along the ridge, the Hirschland Lean-to and the Belleayre Lean-to, which can offer shelter, though they do not have water sources.

Yes, the route utilizes sections of several official trails. You'll primarily be on the Lost Clove Trail and the Pine Hill - West Branch Trail. It also briefly touches upon the Cathedral Glen Trail and the Giggle Hollow Trail. These junctions offer possibilities for variations or longer thru-hikes.

No, there are no reliable water sources directly on the trail, including at the lean-tos. Hikers should carry all the water they need for the duration of their hike.

Yes, you can extend your hike by approximately two miles to visit the western (and highest) peak of Belleayre Mountain via the Belleayre Ridge Trail. This extension offers additional valley views.