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3,953 ft · Blackhead Range, New York

Thomas Cole Mountain

Thomas Cole Mountain is a 3,953 ft peak in the Blackhead Range, New York. The standard route is the Black Dome Range Trail: 5 mi, 2,350 ft of gain, Class 2.

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Thomas Cole Mountain in the Blackhead Range, New York

Thomas Cole Mountain at a glance

  • Elevation3,953 ft1,204 m
  • RouteBlack Dome Range TrailClass 2
  • Distance5 mi2,350 ft gain
  • Time4 – 6 hrsModerate effort
  • SeasonMay – Nov
  • RangeBlackhead RangeNew York

Climbing the Black Dome Range Trail

In Maplecrest, turn onto Barnum Road 0.9 miles south of CR 40 and drive to the end, where parking is tight and driveways must stay clear. The red Black Dome Range Trail follows an old road over private land, then climbs through steep rock ledges to reach Thomas Cole at 2.9 mi (Class 2 in the ledges). The summit is dense, viewless forest, but openings along the way look out over the valley. Black Dome is another 0.8 mi east if you want a second peak. Respect posted land at the start, sign the register, and start early for the long 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
  • Rapid weather shifts
  • Low visibility
  • Spotty cell reception

Quests with Thomas Cole Mountain

Peaks near Thomas Cole Mountain

  1. Black Dome

    Black Dome

    3,994 ft · 0.7 mi away

  2. Blackhead

    Blackhead

    3,941 ft · 1.6 mi away

  3. Kaaterskill High Peak

    Kaaterskill High Peak

    3,652 ft · 8.0 mi away

  4. Hunter Mountain

    Hunter Mountain

    4,031 ft · 8.0 mi away

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Thomas Cole Mountain?

Thomas Cole Mountain is 3,953 feet (1,204 m) tall. It is in the Blackhead Range, New York.

How does Thomas Cole Mountain rank among the Catskill 3500?

At 3,953 feet, Thomas Cole Mountain is the 4th highest of the 33 peaks of the Catskill 3500. The highest is Slide Mountain.

How hard is it to hike Thomas Cole Mountain?

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 2,350 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to hike Thomas Cole Mountain?

Most people take 4 – 6 hours round trip on the Black Dome Range Trail, covering 5 miles with 2,350 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.

Can a beginner hike Thomas Cole Mountain?

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 Thomas Cole Mountain?

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 Thomas Cole Mountain with Yak

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