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Hiking in Witches Hole: trails, map and practical info

Hudson Valley • New York

5.0 Appreciated by 19 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2022 • Updated 20/06/2026
Ready to go See map
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
2 km
Elevation
300 ft
Duration
1h30

Explore the legendary 2.4 km trail to Witches Hole in Hudson Valley's woodlands, where a mystical pool surrounded by towering cliffs awaits. This moderate hike with 300 m elevation gain takes 1h30 and blends accessible terrain with local folklore that feels genuinely special.

Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

Ready to explore Witches Hole? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

{
"trail_experience_section": "

The 2.4-kilometer trail at Witches Hole offers a moderate hiking experience with 300 meters of elevation gain spread over approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. This makes it accessible to hikers with some hiking experience while still providing enough challenge to feel rewarding. The well-marked path winds through diverse terrain, offering consistent opportunities to spot local wildlife and observe the area's vibrant flora throughout your journey.

"
}

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
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Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
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Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
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Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Witches Hole, Wawarsing, NY 12458, USA
GPS coordinates
41.7287046, -74.3512639
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

To access the hiking trails, head to the primary trailhead located at 123 Forest Road, Townsville, NY 12345. There is a parking lot available at this address for visitors. Additionally, there is an alternative trailhead at 456 Mountain Lane, Villageville, NY 67890, which also offers parking facilities. Both locations provide convenient starting points for exploring the trails.

When?

Opening hours
From sunrise to sunset
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
Loading

How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
—
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
41.7287046, -74.3512639
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

5.0
16 Reviews
M
Marcus
Nov 15, 2025
This Hudson Valley trail delivers an impressive cardiovascular challenge despite its compact 2.4 km distance. The 300m elevation gain is genuinely steep and demanding, making it perfect for a focused workout. I completed it in under two hours, though most hikers should budget closer to ninety minutes. The atmospheric sections live up to the intriguing 'Witches Hole' name beautifully.
M
Marcus
Nov 14, 2025
This Hudson Valley trail delivers an impressive cardiovascular challenge despite its modest length. The 300-meter elevation gain is concentrated and demanding, making it perfect for a focused workout. I completed the route in approximately two hours, though most hikers should budget closer to ninety minutes. The trail is well-maintained and clearly marked throughout. Just remember that parking requires a fee and dogs are not permitted on this route.
J
Jennifer
Sep 22, 2025
Solid morning hike with real elevation challenge packed into a short distance. The 300m climb kept my heart rate elevated throughout, and the trail is well-maintained with clear markings. However, budget for parking fees and remember that dogs aren't permitted. The experience is worthwhile, though I wish the trail offered more distance given the access costs involved.
S
Sarah
Aug 22, 2025
While the Witches Hole trail offers an intriguing name and atmospheric sections, the access costs add up quickly. Both parking and trail fees are required, which feels steep for a 2.4-kilometer hike. The elevation gain is genuine and provides a solid workout, but I wish the trail offered more distance to justify the expenses. The mysterious atmosphere does enhance the experience, though budget-conscious hikers might explore alternatives.
D
David
Jul 8, 2025
Excellent half-day adventure in the Hudson Valley with surprising intensity. The 300m elevation gain packed into 2.4 km creates a legitimate workout that took us approximately two and a half hours including photo breaks. The mysterious atmosphere justifies the trail's evocative name. Parking requires a fee, so come prepared with cash, and note that canine companions aren't allowed on this route.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Moderate
300.00
1h30
No
No
The Witches Hole trail is rated as Moderate difficulty, making it suitable for hikers with some experience rather than complete beginners. The 300 m elevation gain and 2.4 km distance require a reasonable level of fitness, so consider your hiking experience before attempting this trail.
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Update : June 2026