Rusk Mountain

Rusk Mountain is a summit in the Catskill Mountains in New York that rises to about 3,680 feet through thick forest. The trail is unmarked and leads through unmaintained terrain to the peak.

The mountain was named in the 19th century after a surveyor who helped with the first modern mapping of the Catskill Mountains. These early surveys helped document the precise geography of this mountain range.

The peak is part of a local hiking club circuit where members document their summits in a register kept at the top. Reaching it represents a personal achievement within a broader climbing tradition in the region.

The climb begins at a marked starting point and requires good navigation skills and hiking experience on unmaintained ground. Visitors should check weather conditions and bring sturdy footwear plus plenty of water.

The summit offers a rare view of one of the few remaining old hemlock tree stands in the region. These ancient trees give the forest a distinctive appearance and make the climb through the terrain particularly memorable.

Location: New York

GPS coordinates: 42.20064,-74.27709

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:02