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- Kaaterskill High Peak
3,652 ft · Kaaterskill, New York
Kaaterskill High Peak
Kaaterskill High Peak is a 3,652 ft peak in the Kaaterskill, New York. The standard route is the Kaaterskill High Peak Trail and summit herd path: 8 mi, 1,800 ft of gain, Class 2.
Kaaterskill High Peak at a glance
- Elevation3,652 ft1,113 m
- RouteKaaterskill High Peak Trail and summit herd pathClass 2
- Distance8 mi1,800 ft gain
- Time5 – 7 hrsModerate effort
- SeasonMay – Nov
- RangeKaaterskillNew York
Climbing the Kaaterskill High Peak Trail and summit herd path
From Palenville or Tannersville, take Platte Clove Road to Steenburgh Road and park at the DEC Upper Platte Clove lot (the road is closed in winter). Follow the Kaaterskill High Peak Trail, the former snowmobile route, and the Long Path, then turn onto the unmarked north herd path for the steep rocky final climb (Class 2) to the canister. Hurricane Ledge, a quarter mile south, adds a view and about half a mile round trip. Plane wreckage lies near the summit. DEC plans a marked route here, so follow current signs. Start early.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (30–40 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 Kaaterskill High Peak
Catskill 3500Peaks near Kaaterskill High Peak
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Kaaterskill High Peak?
Kaaterskill High Peak is 3,652 feet (1,113 m) tall. It is in the Kaaterskill, New York.
How does Kaaterskill High Peak rank among the Catskill 3500?
At 3,652 feet, Kaaterskill High Peak is the 20th highest of the 33 peaks of the Catskill 3500. The highest is Slide Mountain.
How hard is it to hike Kaaterskill High Peak?
The Kaaterskill High Peak Trail and summit herd path is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort moderate: 8 miles with 1,800 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Kaaterskill High Peak?
Most people take 5 – 7 hours round trip on the Kaaterskill High Peak Trail and summit herd path, covering 8 miles with 1,800 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike Kaaterskill High Peak?
Usually, if you are fit. The Kaaterskill High Peak Trail and summit herd path is a common first summit for hikers ready for 5 – 7 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Kaaterskill High Peak?
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 Kaaterskill High Peak 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