Near Equinox Mountain and Lookout Rock
From Equinox Mountain Summit
Near Equinox Mountain and Lookout Rock
Near Equinox Mountain and Lookout Rock
Near Equinox Mountain and Lookout Rock

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Equinox Mountain and Lookout Rock

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Panoramic summit views and a forested ridgeline lead to the Taconic’s tallest peak.
6
mi
Distance
2,881
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
Dogs AllowedFall ColorsScenic
Access Issues
Hiking is free, and no permits are required to access the Equinox Preservation Trust trails. The trailhead parking lot is located on West Union Street behind Burr and Burton Academy and can fill quickly on summer and autumn weekends. Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash at all times.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
6.02mi
Distance
2,881ft
Elevation Gain
2,881ft
Elevation Loss
--%
Max Grade
3,836ft
High Point
1,071ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
This route begins and ends at the Red Gate trailhead on West Union Street, after reaching the summit of Equinox Mountain. From the trailhead, follow the route north. Turn left at 0.1 miles onto the blue-blazed Blue Summit Trail as it climbs steadily through a mixed hardwood forest. At 0.4 miles, stay right at the junction to remain on the Blue Summit Trail. Continue climbing steeply up the eastern flank of the mountain. At 2.5 miles, turn right onto the spur trail to Lookout Rock for a panoramic viewpoint over the Manchester Valley. Retrace your steps on the spur trail, reaching the junction with the Blue Summit Trail on the left, around 3.2 miles. Continue along the trail to reach the flat, open summit of Equinox Mountain at 3.4 miles. Return to the Blue Summit Trail, turning right to descend, around 3.6 miles. Retrace your steps to return to the trailhead.

Route Conditions

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