This point to point hike can be down in either direction. This adventure goes from north to south on the Appalachian Trail (AT, white markers). From the large parking area on Dennytown Road, cross the road and enter the forest. The trail is well marked where to start. Follow the trail through a swampy area for 1.2 miles. The trail will cross the Catfish Loop trail.
In 1.6 miles, the trail crosses South Highland Road and in one more mile through the forest the trail crosses Canopus Hill Road. The next .7 miles is a steep climb to the top of Canopus Hill. There is a bit of a view through the trees on top. Descend from Canopus Hill for one mile and the trail will cross Old Albany Post Road.
After crossing Old Albany Post Road, the trail climbs again steeply to a ridge just below Fort Defiance Hill. The trail switches back to a section below Denning Hill. There is a side trail to take to the top of Denning Hill with some views through the trees. Continuing south the trail descends Denning Hill and then ascends Little Fort Hill. The final mile is a gradual descent to Assini Lane where a shuttle car can be parked at Mount of Atonement Monastery.
