Halcott Mountain – some say Hal-cot and some say Hawk-it, but on December 9th we’re gonna hike-it.
The Catskill social series takes us to Halcott Mountain on December 9. This 4 mile bushwhack has plenty to offer and makes for an interesting day. Unless global warming overwhelms the Catskills this December, please be prepared with full winter gear including proper clothing, foot traction and snowshoes. If you are not new to winter hiking, then like me you are probably hoping for good snowshoeing conditions. December 9 might be a little early in the season for that, but we can hope.
Please wear blaze orange (hat, vest, or jacket, etc.) as the Halcott Mountain hike is taking place just a few days before the end of this year’s regular big game hunting season.
Halcott Mountain is short but steep. The main climb is about 1250 feet of elevation gain over 0.8 miles!. Although there are herd paths, this is a bushwhack. Halcott Mountain has a fair amount of loose shale so footing is often tricky. Total elevation gain is about 1800 feet and the hike covers about 4 miles round trip.
While this mountain isn’t known for its views, there are areas with interesting views during the winter. We’ll also pass through Halcott Mountain’s mysterious field of large cairns. Archeologists don’t agree on their origins, but some of the theories are very interesting.
The Halcott Mountain hike is being presented in conjunction with the Catskill 3500 Club and the Adirondack Mountain Club. You do not need to be a member of these two great organizations, but we do encourage you to consider joining one or both of them.
See our recommended gear list for day hikes for advice on what to bring: Recommended Gear
Contact Ed to reserve your spot on the Halcott Mountain bushwhack. Please include a sentence or two about your recent hiking experience.
Hopefully you can join. If not, stay tuned for announcement of our 2022 Catskill Social Series schedule and check out our other great Catskill offerings: