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- Balsam Cap
3,608 ft · Southern Catskills, New York
Balsam Cap
Balsam Cap is a 3,608 ft peak in the Southern Catskills, New York. The standard route is the Moon Haw Road and Rim herd path: 5 mi, 2,400 ft of gain, Class 2.
Balsam Cap at a glance
- Elevation3,608 ft1,099 m
- RouteMoon Haw Road and Rim herd pathClass 2
- Distance5 mi2,400 ft gain
- Time4 – 6 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Nov
- RangeSouthern CatskillsNew York
Climbing the Moon Haw Road and Rim herd path
From NY 42 near Shandaken, turn onto Moon Haw Road and drive about 2 miles to the informal pull-off. Follow the herd path up Friday's ridge, steep from the first step, to the Rim herd path just below 2,700 ft. At the Pregnant Tree junction, bear left over rocky ground to the Balsam Cap canister, about 20 minutes beyond. Dense fir blocks views at the top, but a view of the Ashokan Reservoir opens just north. Class 2. Stay on the herd path and well away from posted private land. In winter and spring you may need to park farther down the road.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (25–35 L)
Hiking Boots
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Whistle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sun Hat
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
What to watch for
- Route-finding difficulty
- Slippery terrain
- Loose rock
- Spotty cell reception
Quests with Balsam Cap
Catskill 3500Peaks near Balsam Cap
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Balsam Cap?
Balsam Cap is 3,608 feet (1,099 m) tall. It is in the Southern Catskills, New York.
How does Balsam Cap rank among the Catskill 3500?
At 3,608 feet, Balsam Cap is the 24th highest of the 33 peaks of the Catskill 3500. The highest is Slide Mountain.
How hard is it to hike Balsam Cap?
The Moon Haw Road and Rim herd path is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 5 miles with 2,400 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Balsam Cap?
Most people take 4 – 6 hours round trip on the Moon Haw Road and Rim herd path, covering 5 miles with 2,400 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Balsam Cap?
Usually, if you are fit. The Moon Haw Road and Rim herd path is a common first summit for hikers ready for 4 – 6 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Balsam Cap?
The usual hiking window is May to November. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Balsam Cap with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list