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- Blackhead
3,941 ft · Blackhead Range, New York
Blackhead
Blackhead is a 3,941 ft peak in the Blackhead Range, New York. The standard route is the Batavia Kill and Escarpment Trails: 5 mi, 1,850 ft of gain, Class 2.
Blackhead at a glance
- Elevation3,941 ft1,201 m
- RouteBatavia Kill and Escarpment TrailsClass 2
- Distance5 mi1,850 ft gain
- Time3 – 5 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonYear‑round
- RangeBlackhead RangeNew York
Climbing the Batavia Kill and Escarpment Trails
From Maplecrest, follow Greene County Route 56 and Big Hollow Road about 4 miles to the Big Hollow parking area. Take the red Black Dome Range Trail about half a mile, bear onto the yellow Batavia Kill Trail for 0.9 mi, then climb the blue Escarpment Trail roughly a mile to the summit junction. The east face is steep rock steps (Class 2) and is one of the few Catskill ascents that often needs crampons in winter. Blackhead is one of the four winter-required club peaks. Views are best from ledges below the wooded top. Carry traction and extra layers.
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
- Ice near summit
- Icy summit conditions
- Slippery terrain
- Rapid weather shifts
Quests with Blackhead
Catskill 3500Peaks near Blackhead
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Blackhead?
Blackhead is 3,941 feet (1,201 m) tall. It is in the Blackhead Range, New York. It is also known as Blackhead Mountain.
How does Blackhead rank among the Catskill 3500?
At 3,941 feet, Blackhead is the 5th highest of the 33 peaks of the Catskill 3500. The highest is Slide Mountain.
How hard is it to hike Blackhead?
The Batavia Kill and Escarpment Trails 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 1,850 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Blackhead?
Most people take 3 – 5 hours round trip on the Batavia Kill and Escarpment Trails, covering 5 miles with 1,850 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Blackhead?
Usually, if you are fit. The Batavia Kill and Escarpment Trails is a common first summit for hikers ready for 3 – 5 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Blackhead?
Blackhead is open for hiking year-round. Conditions change with the seasons, so check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Blackhead 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