On Tuesday, December 13th I hiked up Hunter Mountain via Spruceton road. In fact, it was the same hike as the previous post, but i figured you guys would like to see how the place looks with some snow!
There were a few inches of powder on the ground, and once I got above 3500 feet the trail became very icy. I was hoping it would, because I was eager to try out crampons for the first time. Worked like a charm! Microspikes would have probably been sufficient on this trial.
I saw no one on the trail, no cars in the lot, and the last visitor was a ranger on patrol 2 days prior. I did see a lot of rabbit tracks, and one set of deer tracks. Ran into plenty of grouse (I think) that would startle me as they burst out of the pines next to me.
Spruceton Road was in good shape, glad to see it opened again.
It was a great hike with awesome views. This might be my new favorite season in the Catskills.
Start of the trail:
Icy conditions:
John Robb lean-to and its view
From the fire tower:
