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DISTANCE: 2 miles TYPE: Loop TOTAL ELEVATION GAIN: 75 feet MAXIMUM ELEVATION: 2250 feet DIFFICULTY: Easy HIKING TIME: 1 hour |
A popular spot for swimmers and families, Alder Lake is a man-made lake created in 1901 by Samuel D. Coykendall, a prominent figure in the area with ties to regional railroads. In addition to the lake, Coykendall constructed the Coykendall Lodge, a three-story home built as a summer escape for his family. After Coykendall’s death, the lodge changed owners several times before the state acquired the property in 1980. After a long period of neglect and decay, the building was eventually demolished in 2008. The stone foundation can still be found near the beginning of the hike today.
GETTING THERE
From NY-17 heading north, take Exit 96 at Livingston Manor, then turn right onto Debruce Road. After half a mile, turn right onto Old Route 17/Rock Avenue, and drive for 1.3 miles. Make a slight right onto Beaverkill Road and drive for 11 miles. Make another slight right to stay on Beaverkill Road and continue another 1.4 miles. Turn left onto Alder Road. After 2 miles, turn right onto Cross Mountain Road to reach the parking area.
GPS SHORTCUT
Type “Alder Lake, Hardenburgh, NY” into Google Maps to have your GPS navigate you to the appropriate trailhead.
THE TRAIL
From the parking area, locate the trail past the foundation of the Coykendall Lodge. Walk down the right side of the ruins to follow the trail around the lake. The loop around Alder Lake is one of the easiest in the Catskills, with no significant elevation change. Along the way, you will pass a number of campsites and access points to the lake. Fishing is allowed here seasonally.
On the other side of the lake, you will reach Cradle Rock Ridge. After 0.8 mile the Millbrook Ridge Trail (yellow blazes) turns left. Stay straight on the main trail to continue around the lake. Soon, cross a bridge over Alder Creek.
Continue on the woods road. Close to the southern end of the lake, you will arrive at an open area. Cross the dam and walk up the path to return to your car.
