Near Cornish/Brook/Notch/Washburn/Undercliff Loop
The view west from the summit of Taurus Mountain (Bull Hill).
Near Cornish/Brook/Notch/Washburn/Undercliff Loop
VIew of Hudson River (South)
Near Cornish/Brook/Notch/Washburn/Undercliff Loop
The view north from the summit of Taurus Mountain (Bull Hill).
Near Cornish/Brook/Notch/Washburn/Undercliff Loop
Washburn Trail heads to the right from this junction.
Near Cornish/Brook/Notch/Washburn/Undercliff Loop
View from Bull Hill Short Loop

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Cornish/Brook/Notch/Washburn/Undercliff Loop

4.6 (9 Ratings)
Hike past an old stone house ruin and enjoy some spectacular views near the end of the loop.
6.9
mi
Distance
1,460
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Fall ColorsLess CrowdedViews

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
6.93mi
Distance
1,460ft
Elevation Gain
1,460ft
Elevation Loss
25%
Max Grade
1,421ft
High Point
17ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
This loop is a great option to avoid crowds on the west side of the Washburn Trail. Start at the same trailhead for the Washburn Trail. The Cornish Trail is on the left and there is an obvious sign at the fork just past the parking area. The Cornish Trail is a defunct road from about 70 years ago when the mountain was inhabited with families. You'll pass several old stone ruins, one which is very impressive. The Cornish Trail is designated by blue disc markers. After about 1.5 miles, you'll merge with the Brook Trail for a short distance (red disc markers).Stay on the Brook Trail for about 0.5 miles passing the Undercliff Trail (yellow disc markers), until you reach a trail junction with the Notch Trail. There are a few ruins of an old dairy farm just up the Notch Trail. Turn right on the Notch Trail (blue disc markers) and follow this for about one mile until you reach a junction of three trails (Washburn, Nelsonville and Notch). The Notch Trail in this direction is a steady climb but mostly gradual.At this three-way trail junction, turn right on the Washburn Trail (white disc markers). This section of the Washburn Trail follows an old fire road to the summit. The summit has great views north and continuing on there are several more. Continue on the Washburn Trail until the Undercliff Trail (yellow disc markers) junction. Turn right here and continue to some of the best viewpoints on West Point and Storm King Mountain. This trail sees little traffic and is very enjoyable. Follow it until you reach the Brook Trail again and turn left onto the access road that will eventually merge again with the Cornish Trail and bring you back to the trailhead.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
John Maurizi