Where is the trailhead for Mount Sherrill located?

The trailhead for Mount Sherrill is located on Shaft Road, just off Route 42 in the Catskill Mountains. A small parking area provides access to the New York State Forest Preserve lands.

Is there an official trail to the summit of Mount Sherrill?

No, Mount Sherrill is considered a trailless peak in the Catskills. However, there is a well-defined herd path that leads from the parking area on Shaft Road to the summit, making navigation easier for experienced hikers.

How long is the hike to Mount Sherrill and how much elevation gain is there?

The hike to the summit of Mount Sherrill and back is approximately 6 miles round trip, with around 2,100 feet of elevation gain. The route follows an old logging road before ascending steeply along a herd path.

What makes the Mount Sherrill bushwhack unique?

In addition to its trailless summit and sweeping Catskill Mountain views, Mount Sherrill is home to a fascinating piece of local history — an abandoned school bus deep in the forest, once used as a hunting camp. It's slowly being reclaimed by nature and is a highlight for adventurous hikers.

Do I need a permit to hike Mount Sherrill?

No permits are required to hike Mount Sherrill. The mountain is located on New York State Forest Preserve lands. However, hikers should always follow Leave No Trace principles and be prepared for backcountry conditions.

Is the Mount Sherrill hike suitable for beginners?

The Mount Sherrill bushwhack is best suited for experienced hikers who are comfortable with off-trail navigation and steep terrain. While there is a herd path, this hike involves bushwhacking and should not be attempted without proper preparation.

Mount Sherrill Trailless Hike — Catskills Bushwhack with Scenic Views and a Lost Bus

Explore the most direct bushwhack route to Mount Sherrill summit in the Catskills. Discover trailless hiking, stunning views, and the mysterious lost school bus on this unique Catskill adventure.

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.

Mount Sherrill Bushwhack from Shaft Road Description

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.

Mount Sherrill Bushwhack Details

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

Find out more about the Mount Sherrill Bushwhack

You can find out more about hiking the Mount Sherrill Bushwhack here:

Additional Catskill Park information is available at the Catskills Visitor Center (5096 Route 28 in Mt. Tremper) on the Web, Facebook, Instagram, and in person.

Hike On Guides: Need help on a hike like this? Moe is a NYS licensed hiking and backpacking guide. You can hire him for Hiking, Backpacking and Camping Guide Services at Hike On Guides for hikes in New York, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts.

Our Hiking Advice and Hiking Gear Recommendations

Gear we used on this hike:

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Important Hiking Considerations:

Weather: Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for changes in conditions.
Safety: Some sections of trail can be steep and rocky, others can be muddy, so use caution and always watch your footing.
Leave No Trace: As with any outdoor activity, remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Pack out any trash, stay on the trail, and be respectful of the natural environment.