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A straightforward out-and-back route. Fully blazed.

Hiking Trail Description

Blackhead in winter is one of the best Catskills High Peaks hikes. Of course, winter ascents always need a little extra planning.

This route uses the easiest, shortest and safest route up to the summit of Blackhead mountain in the Catskills. A short section of the route between the col and the summit ridge was rebuilt in 2025 and now offers a much easier climb and a vastly improved scenic view looking across to Black Dome and to the Devil’s Path range.

Note: When the big snow hits, the last section of road to main trailhead for this route is usually unplowed. In this case, you need to roadside park ¼ mile out and walk in, adding an extra ½ mile to the typical warm seasons out-and-back route.

Make sure you have all the necessary winter hiking gear and skills before tackling any mountain in winter conditions.

Table of Contents

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to hike Blackhead in winter

Allow 3-4 hours for this hike.

What is the elevation gain for Blackhead Mountain in the Catskills

The elevation gain for this hike is 1,750 feet (apx 230 meters).

Blackhead Mountain in Winter Guide

The Blackhead Mountain hiking trail includes…

Some of the loveliest trails and footbridges in the Catkills
A steep work0ut route
One of the finest scenic views in the Catskills
A beautiful walk back and forth across Blackhead’s long flat summit ridge
All in less than about 4 hours

A full breakdown for hiking Blackhead in winter is provided below in the hike notes with lots of photos.

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Blackhead in Winter Trail Notes & Gallery

When hiking Blackhead in winter, you may have to park ¼ mile before the official trailhead. In every season, this is one of the loveliest routes in the whole Catskills Park. You cross Batavia Kill several times, using delightful footbridges…

Blackhead Mountain, Catskills — Batavia Kill footbridge in spring

…before you get to the first junction.

At the junction, turn south / right and walk for about 4/10th mile before you cross a gully which marks the start of when the real climb begins.

The ascent is steep until you get to the switchbacks which are a great relief.

Hike Blackhead Mountain, Catskills, Winter — Hiking up to the col in winter

From there you get to the col between the two mountains, and turn east/left to climb to Blackhead’s summit ridge. Hiking Blackhead in winter is tough going, especially in the snow, but the views are so so worth it…

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Similar Hikes

So many good routes in this whole area. Any hike of Blackhead, Black Dome, Thomas Cole, Acra Point, and Windham High Peak — all close together, all just fantastic. This is some of the best terrain in the Catskills, with some of our finest scenic views too.

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