Hike the Cornish/Brook/Notch/Washburn/Undercliff Loop

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 trail split a few feet from the parking area.  The Cornish Trail is an old road from about 70 years ago when families lived on the mountain.  You will 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 will merge with the Brook Trail for a short distance (red disc markers).

Stay on the Brook Trail for about .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 1 mile until you reach a junction of three trails (Washburn, Nelsonville and Notch).  The Notch Trail in this direction is a steady climb up but mostly gradual.

At this three 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 view points on West Point and Storm King Mountain.  This trail sees little traffic and is very enjoyable.  Follow until you reach the Brook Trail again and turn left onto the access road that will eventually merge again with the Cornish Trail and back to the trailhead.