Saturday, October 24, 9AM - Escarpment Traverse: North/South Lake to Colgate Lake

Catskills All Trails (CATs) SeriesThis hike covers portions of the Escarpment, Mary's Glen and Rock Shelter trails and the entire Colgate Lake Trail.This 10.7 mile trail hike at the eastern edge of the Catskill Park visits a lightly used section of the Escarpment Trail.Starting in North/South Lake, we will hike to North Point where there are awesome postcard views to be had of North/South Lake with Kaaterskill High Peak and Roundtop in the background. (To accommodate hikers pursuing the Catskills All Trails Challenge, we will divide the group during this portion of the hike, taking alternate routes on the Mary's Glen and Rock Shelter Trails). At North Point we will regroup and make sure to visit the viewpoint to the north that is sometimes missed by hikers traveling through this area. The Escarpment Trail beyond North Point is less commonly traveled but is very rewarding. We'll pass near the summit of North Mountain on our way to Stoppel Point (3,420'), a Catskill 100 Highest Peak where there is wreckage from a plane crash and some great views down to the Hudson Valley. Continuing towards Dutcher Notch we will pass Milt's Lookout. Turning west we will hike the entire Colgate Lake Trail to the cars spotted earlier at the finishing trailhead.The hike is difficult due to its length (10.7 miles). We’ll be on marked trails throughout the day, but the terrain can be rocky and there will be moderate elevation change throughout the day. 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 October in the Catskills can vary widely. Dress for comfort in moisture wicking clothing and layers. A wind-resistant, water-resistant shell with hood, gloves and a warm hat or balaclava may come in handy, even if the weather is generally warm.Bring snacks, lunch and plenty of water (at least two liters). You might consider bringing a hot beverage in a thermal container if the weather is cold.As with almost any hike in the Catskills, good hiking boots are a must. A hat and sunscreen are always a good idea.Well behaved dogs with hiking experience are welcome. Please notify the leader in advance.NYNJTC Map 141 - Northeastern CatskillsCatskill Trail ConditionsPre-registration is required and group size is limited. Pre-register by sending an email to tom.martone.cmc@gmail.com by Thursday October 22, 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.The two trailheads for the hike are:Starting at Scutt Road Parking AreaFrom South: NYS Thruway (I-87) Exit 20 at Saugerties. Follow Rte. 32 north for approximately 6 miles to Rte. 32A to Rte. 23A west. Stay on Rte. 23A to the village of Haines Falls. Make first right turn in Haines Falls onto County Rte. 18, campground entrance is 2 miles to the end of the road. Scutt Road Parking Area is on Scutt Road to the right just before the campground entrance.From North: NYS Thruway (I-87) Exit 21 at Catskill. Left on Rte. 23 east to Rte. 9W south. Follow Rte. 9W through Catskill to Rte. 23A. Follow 23A west to Haines Falls. Make first right turn in Haines Falls onto County Rte. 18, campground entrance is 2 miles to end of the road. Scutt Road Parking Area is on Scutt Road to the right just before the campground entrance.Finishing at Colgate Lake Trail Head Parking AreaFrom the West: Take St. Hwy. 23 East to Rt. 23A. Follow Rt. 23A to Tannersville. Make a left onto County Route 23C. Follow Route 23C to East Jewett. Make a right onto County Route 78. This leads directly to Colgate Lake.From the East: Out of Catskill, NY, take Rt. 23A West to Tannersville. Make a right onto County Route 23C. Proceed as directed above.