Windham High Peak via Escarpment Trail from Peck Rd. Trailhead
3.0 mi
Distance
1 hrs 23 min
Time
terrain
1,440 ft
Elev Gain
Overview
This hike is a moderately strenuous out-and-back (at ~6 mi total) hike to Windham High Peak in Catskill Park.
This trail goes by Elm Ridge piped spring.
Getting Started
Trailhead parking is available at the end of Peck Road in Maplecrest, NY. A small lot, it fits ~10 cars.
Rate this Hike
★★★★★
This is one of the easier hikes I’ve done in the Catskills. I got immediately off trail (which is easy to do at the start) and walked into Elm Ridge Forest, passing a long line of dramatic rock outcroppings. (I would recommend doing this: take a slight left at the sign for the LEAN TO.) Back on the main trail, there are some beautiful woods to walk through, especially two tall hardwood forests which were really magical; I’ll come here again just to walk through these two stands. Some views of the Blacks on the way up to the summit which is flat and exposed, with wonderfully gnarly trees on either side of the trail. On a clear day, the view north from the eastern ledge must be pretty good.
★
★
★
★
Public Tracks
WINDHAM HIGH PEAK DOWN ONLY
We only logged the decent due to phone problems. Nothing difficult on this hike other than the length (6.2 miles) and elevation (1450) depending on your stamina. Wet and muddy this time of year (Apr 17) be sure your footwear is waterproof. You will sink in the mud at least a few times.
