Saturday, May 9, 9AM - Hike to Windham High Peak and Burnt Knob

Catskills All Trails (CATs) Series:  This hike completes the Elm Ridge Trail (0.85m) and covers 4.95m of the Escarpment Trail and 1.1m of the Black Dome Range Trail.Join Tom Martone on a thru hike of a section of the Escarpment Trail which includes a Catskill 3500 Peak, Windham High Peak (3,524’) and a Catskill 100 Highest Peak, Burnt Knob (3,180’).  We’ll soak in the great views to the north and east from the top of Windham High Peak. where on a clear day you can see Albany.  We continue on the Escarpment Trail on an up and down journey through interesting terrain and forests passing Burnt Knob on our way to the junction with the Black Dome Trail.  We will stop and enjoy multiple view points along the way and there should be lots of opportunities for great photos.The hike is moderately difficult due to its length (6.9 miles) and elevation changes.  We’ll be on marked trails throughout the day, but the terrain can be rocky and there will be elevation change throughout the day with a few steep pitches.  Hiking poles can be helpful.  We will hike at a moderate pace, staying together as a group and making sure all hikers are comfortable.The weather in May in the Catskills can vary widely.  Dress for comfort in moisture wicking clothing and layers.  A wind-resistant, water-resistant shell with hood can come in handy even if the weather is generally warm. Bring snacks, lunch and plenty of water (at least two liters).As with almost any hike in the Catskills, good hiking boots are a must and a pair of gaiters is a good idea for a spring hike.  A hat and sunscreen are always a good idea.  You may consider bug repellent as well.Well behaved dogs with hiking experience are welcome. Please notify the leader in advance.Pre-registration is required.  Group size is limited to 12 by DEC guidelines for hikes in the Windham - Blackhead Range Wilderness.  Pre-register by sending an email to tom.martone.cmc@gmail.com by Thursday May 7, 2015.  In your email, let me know the number of seats in your vehicle and where you are traveling from so we can work out the best way to shuttle vehicles from the two trailheads.NYNJTC Map 141 - Northeastern Catskills - see http://www.nynjtc.org/product/new-catskill-trails-map-set-maps-hiking-catskillsTrail Conditions - see http://www.nynjtc.org/content/catskill-trails-updatesDirections:The two trailheads for the hike are:Starting at Peck Road Parking AreaAt the end of Peck Road in Maplecrest, NY.42.296631, -74.16911From State Route 23 at the east end of Windham, NY take NY-296 S for 1.5 miles which turns into Maplecrest Road.  Turn right onto County Road 40 and proceed for 1.8 miles and turn left on Big Hollow Road (Route 56).  Proceed on Big Hollow Road for 1.8 miles and make a left onto Peck Road.  The trailhead and parking area are .8 miles ahead at the end of Peck Road.Finishing at Big Hollow Road Road Parking AreaAt the end of Big Hollow Road (County Route 56) in Maplecrest, NY.42.28884, -74.11505From State Route 23 at the east end of Windham, NY take NY-296 S for 1.5 miles which turns into Maplecrest Road.  Turn right onto County Road 40 and proceed for 1.8 miles and turn left on Big Hollow Road (Route 56).  Proceed on Big Hollow Road for 4.2 miles.  The parking area is on the right at the end of Big Hollow Road.