The Escarpment Trail is in the Catskills of New York and is notable for it’s open vistas and fine views of the Hudson River Valley. This 23.9 mile hike is moderately challenging and requires shuttles from the start on Schutt Road just outside of Haines Falls, NY off Rt 18 and ends at Rt 23 — 3.1 miles down from Windham High Peak (3,524 ft).
The high point is Blackhead Mountain (3,940 ft) and the downed airplane is still on the Northern shoulder.
The world famous Escarpment Trail Run begins at the Northern terminus and continues 18 miles south to the North/South Lake Campground; a great one day fastpack. The remaining 4 plus miles are somewhat too much part of civilization versus the previous 18 miles of Back Country.
Although not as tough as the Devil’s Path, the first 18 miles (North to South) are almost 10,000 feet of total gain/loss and are BONE DRY. Water sources are sparse and off the trail (a few are close; get a map beforehand, one that indicates reliable ‘springs’).
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Batavia Kill Lean-To (Porcupine Free) |
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Instruments have been picked clean … |
… a long time ago. |
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The Climb .. but Windham Peak has a greater G/L |
Sunset Ridge |
