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- Black Dome
3,994 ft · Blackhead Range, New York
Black Dome
Black Dome is a 3,994 ft peak in the Blackhead Range, New York. The standard route is the Black Dome Range Trail: 5 mi, 1,900 ft of gain, Class 2.
Black Dome at a glance
- Elevation3,994 ft1,217 m
- RouteBlack Dome Range TrailClass 2
- Distance5 mi1,900 ft gain
- Time4 – 6 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Nov
- RangeBlackhead RangeNew York
Climbing the Black Dome Range Trail
From Maplecrest, follow Greene County Route 56 and Big Hollow Road about 4 miles past CR 40 to the Big Hollow parking area. Take the red Black Dome Range Trail southwest 2.6 mi to the summit, climbing steep pitches and rock ledges that need hands in places. The top is wooded, with a small view south through the balsams. Black Dome is the tallest of the three Blackheads and links to Thomas Cole and Blackhead for a longer traverse. Ice lingers on the ledges into spring, so carry traction. Start early, since the steep pitches slow the descent.
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
- Slippery terrain
- Ice near summit
- Rapid weather shifts
- Low visibility
Quests with Black Dome
Catskill 3500Peaks near Black Dome
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Black Dome?
Black Dome is 3,994 feet (1,217 m) tall. It is in the Blackhead Range, New York.
How does Black Dome rank among the Catskill 3500?
At 3,994 feet, Black Dome is the 3rd highest of the 33 peaks of the Catskill 3500. The highest is Slide Mountain.
How hard is it to hike Black Dome?
The Black Dome Range Trail 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 1,900 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Black Dome?
Most people take 4 – 6 hours round trip on the Black Dome Range Trail, covering 5 miles with 1,900 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Black Dome?
Usually, if you are fit. The Black Dome Range Trail 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 Black Dome?
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 Black Dome 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