Last hike of the year

I was able to sneak in one more hike before the end of 2010. I climbed Blackhead mountain with Howie in the Catskills. The powdery snow on the trail was well packed down. So, I decided not to use my snowshoes. As the hike progressed, the snow softened in the warm afternoon sun and was less supportive (i.e. my boots sunk in more). I reached the sunny viewpoint and stopped for a snack. Went to tag the real summit and then headed back down. A nice short hike to end the year.

Summit Elevation: Blackhead 3942 ft
Round-trip Distance: 4.6 mi
Elevation Change: 1760 ft

Blackhead

Bear in mind

I did a hike with Howie in the Southern Taconics. Parked at the trailhead on Route 41 in CT (which was nearly full) and started out on the Under Mountain trail. There was a dusting of snow in the woods and the sun was out. Took the Paradise Lane trail around to the north side of the mountain. Turned left onto the Appalachian Trail for the final push to the summit. It was a bit steep with some icy spots. After that little workout, I reached the top and took a lunch break. Continued along south on the AT and then turned onto the Under Mountain trail and soon was back at the car. Had a nice afternoon for our short hike, and I remembered my camera this time.

Summit Elevation: Bear 2316 ft
Round-trip Distance: 6.7 mi
Elevation Change: 1560 ft

Bear Mountain

Doh!

I did a hike with Howie in the Catskills. Parked at the trailhead in Palenville on Route 23A and started up the Harding trail (old road). After a moderate climb, we reached the Escarpment trail. Continued west and stopped at Sunset Rock for a quick lunch break. Had a nice view, but unfortunately, I left my camera at home. Took the yellow cut-over trail to the horse trail and then finally back down to the car. Had a nice sunny but cold day for our short trek.

Round-trip Distance: 6.9 mi
Elevation Change: 1500 ft