Escarpment Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features Fall Colors · Views · Wildlife

This section of the Long Path ascends Windham High Peak (3,524 ft) from a parking area on Route 23. You'll then get to follow the ridge line up and down a number of smaller peaks before making a steep ascent up Blackhead Mountain (3,940 ft), the 4th highest peak in the Catskills. Parts of the stretch up Blackhead are very steep, but don't require much scrambling past balance. There is a good viewpoint near the summit of Blackhead.

The trail then descends to Dutcher Notch, a shoulder between Blackhead and Stoppel Point. You could continue along the Long Path or descend further on the Colgate Lake Trail to the west of Dutcher Notch Trail to the east. This trail would require one to have parking at both ends or be ready for a long return hike.