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Indian Head Wilderness
4.8 ★★★★★ 162 Google reviews · Running trail in Elka Park, New York · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- 7 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Indian Head Wilderness' own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
The 7-mile loop on this 3,573 ft. peak, with bouldering sections & waterfalls, draws expert hikers.
What runners say about Indian Head Wilderness
“Indian Head is part of the Catskill Mountain Range, one of the high peaks above 3500 hundred feet, beautiful views, not for beginners, fun but high degree of difficulty.”
Not an easy hike by any means, but a worthy challenge. We're early 30s, physically fit, but not avid hikers. Managed to complete the 6 mile circuit trail in 4 hours including about 45 minutes to an hour of breaks to hydrate and enjoy the views. Definitely bring water.
Some of the most challenging hikes in the Catskills that involve some technical maneuvering and scrambling, but I love that sort of thing. It makes the hike more mentally engaging, and it works muscles you forgot you had. The views are stunning, and it's beautiful forest.
A very nice hike with a rather rocky trail. I went up to Indian head Peak, South twin peak, then twin peak on a perfect day in July. The trail is very well marked and maintained. No view at the top of Indian head but the view from the Twin Peaks were incredible!
1st time exploring and holy damn!! I was not expecting the intensity but surely recommend! I plan on going back for more when the sun is shining. Please wear hiking boots. Enjoy the pics
Trail conditions & character
“Indian Head is part of the Catskill Mountain Range, one of the high peaks above 3500 hundred feet, beautiful views, not for beginners, fun but high degree of difficulty.”
“I agree because the steep areas were more fun climbing up instead of down.”
“Some of the most challenging hikes in the Catskills that involve some technical maneuvering and scrambling, but I love that sort of thing.”
“The trail is dog friendly, minus one sharp assent that required me to carry our dog.”
“Managed to complete the 6 mile circuit trail in 4 hours including about 45 minutes to an hour of breaks to hydrate and enjoy the views.”
Plan your run at Indian Head Wilderness
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- Distance7 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit. Long enough for a real long run.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitedec.ny.gov
- Phone+1 518-408-5850
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near Elka Park
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Platte Clove Preserve - Catskill Center
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Kaaterskill Wild Forest
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Kaaterskill Rail Trail
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