Hiking: Mount Sherrill Bushwhack from Shaft Road | Catskills Hiking

Mount Sherrill, nestled in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, offers hikers a rewarding off-trail bushwhack experience with stunning views and intriguing history. The most direct access point to this trailless peak is from the parking area on Shaft Road, just off Route 42, which provides entry to the New York State Forest Preserve lands.

Starting at the Shaft Road parking lot, the route initially follows an old logging road. After crossing a creek, you’ll continue along this well-defined logging road for about a mile. Then, you’ll leave the road behind and begin a steeper ascent up Mount Sherrill. While this hike is trailless, an easy-to-follow herd path leads from the parking lot all the way to the summit, making navigation manageable for adventurous hikers seeking Catskills bushwhacking trails.

Once you reach the summit, don’t miss the short trek south to a spectacular viewpoint. This scenic overlook offers breathtaking vistas of the Catskill High Peaks that are well worth the quick descent and climb back to the peak before your return trip.

For a unique twist, we took an alternate descent route to visit the fascinating “lost school bus” on Mount Sherrill. This abandoned bus was once used as a hunting camp before the state acquired the land. Now slowly being reclaimed by nature, it’s an eerie and captivating landmark nestled deep in the wild Catskill woods. After exploring the bus, we rejoined the herd path and made our way back to the Shaft Road parking area.

If you’re looking for a true Catskills trailless bushwhack with a mix of history, wilderness, and spectacular views, Mount Sherrill should be on your radar. This hike is perfect for experienced Catskill hikers, thru-hikers, and those interested in off-trail hiking adventures in New York State.

• Location: Catskill Mountains, New York State Forest Preserve

• Trailhead: Parking lot on Shaft Road (off Route 42) (Google Map Link)

• Distance: Approx. 2.5 miles round trip (varies with route)

• Elevation Gain: ~1,200 feet

• Trail Type: Trailless / Bushwhack with herd path

• Difficulty: Difficult to Strenuous (due to off-trail navigation and steep ascent/descent)

• Highlights: Summit of Mount Sherrill, viewpoint south of summit, and lost school bus

• Best For: Experienced hikers comfortable with off-trail navigation and bushwhacking

• Permits/Regulations: Located within New York State Forest Preserve lands, no permit is required; always follow Leave No Trace principles

Adventures in the Outdoors – a community of hikers and outdoor enthusiasts sharing information and adventures http://adventures-in-the-outdoors.blogspot.com