Halcott Mountain

The Halcott Mountain route begins at a small, unmarked DEC trailhead pull-off on Route 42, just south of Deep Notch. From the parking area, follow a faint herd path along an old woods road that quickly leads to a stream crossing. After the crossing, the trail climbs steeply through mixed hardwoods and transitions into dense spruce forest as elevation increases. Navigation becomes more challenging here—there are no maintained trails, and route-finding is essential. At higher elevations, occasional blowdowns and ledges offer limited but rewarding views toward the Blackhead Range. The summit is wooded and marked by a canister used by Catskill 3500 peak baggers. From the summit, most hikers descend via the same route. For a different experience follow the herd path that reconnects lower on the slope, forming a rough semi-loop. Snowshoes or microspikes may be necessary in winter, and water sources are scarce—plan to bring enough for the entire route. This rugged backcountry hike rewards confident navigators with solitude, deep forest terrain, and the satisfaction of summiting one of the more remote Catskill high peaks.