Hunter Mountain | Catskills

Hunter Mountain is a prominent peak located in the Catskill Mountains of New York State. Rising to an elevation of 4,040 feet (1,231 meters), it is one of the highest mountains in the Catskills and a popular destination year-round for outdoor enthusiasts.

Geographic and Natural Features

Hunter Mountain is situated in Greene County within the towns of Hunter and Lexington. The mountain is known for its rugged terrain, dense forests, and panoramic summit views. At the summit stands the historic Hunter Mountain Fire Tower, the highest fire tower in New York State. From the tower, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding Catskill peaks, the Hudson Valley, and on clear days, even the distant Adirondacks.

Hunter Mountain Ski Resort

Hunter Mountain is perhaps best known for its ski resort, which is the largest ski area in the Catskills and a major regional winter sports hub.

The resort boasts a vertical drop of 1,600 feet (488 meters) and offers over 320 skiable acres.

There are 67 trails catering to all skill levels: about 25% beginner, 30% intermediate, 30% advanced, and 15% expert.

The mountain features 13 ski lifts, including a high-speed six-person detachable chairlift that reduces wait times and provides quick access to the slopes.

Hunter Mountain was a pioneer in snowmaking technology, becoming the first ski area in the world to offer full top-to-bottom snowmaking coverage by 1980. This allows for a reliable ski season even in less snowy winters.

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the resort offers snow tubing at its tubing park.

The resort also operates a dedicated learning center for beginners with lessons and beginner-friendly terrain.

Summer and Year-Round Activities

Hunter Mountain is not just a winter destination. In the warmer months, the mountain offers a range of outdoor activities:

Hiking: Trails such as the Spruceton Trail (about 7 miles roundtrip) lead to the summit and fire tower. The Colonel’s Chair Trail, accessible from the summit via the Sky Ride chairlift on select summer weekends, offers another scenic hike.

Mountain Biking: The resort features bike trails and terrain parks designed for all skill levels.

Scenic Chairlift Rides: Visitors can take the chairlift to the summit for hiking or sightseeing without the strenuous climb.

Snowshoeing and Snowmobiling are popular in winter months outside the resort's ski areas.

Accommodation and Dining

On-mountain lodging is available at the Kaatskill Mountain Club, a luxury hotel offering ski-in/ski-out access and upscale amenities. Around Hunter Mountain and the nearby town of Hunter, visitors can find a variety of restaurants, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining, serving both local and international cuisine.

Accessibility and Transportation

Hunter Mountain is approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from New York City, making it a convenient escape for weekend trips. Public transportation options include bus services to nearby towns, with shuttle services that connect visitors to the resort.

Environmental and Safety Notes

The mountain and resort emphasize environmental stewardship, implementing sustainable practices such as efficient snowmaking, waste reduction, and habitat protection. Visitors are encouraged to respect trail guidelines and resort rules to preserve the natural beauty and ensure safety.

Hunter Mountain offers a comprehensive outdoor experience with its mix of challenging ski terrain, scenic hiking trails, year-round activities, and stunning views. It remains a key destination in the Catskills for both adventure seekers and nature lovers.