OverviewThomas Cole is the westernmost high peak in the Blackhead Range. Like Black Dome, it used to offer views south towards the southern Catskills. The area got its name because when viewed from a distance the tops of the peaks appear Black due to the spruce/Balsam Summits. However, the viewpoint has now been overgrown (Special thanks to RobA). From the west, access is via the Black Dome Range Trail from Maplecrest. From the east, access is via the Black Dome Range Trail over Black Dome from Big Hollow and Lockwood Gap. History of the mountains namesake: Thomas Cole was a great painter of the Hundson River Valley and of others.
The views looking north from Colgate Lake and along route 23C are absolutely spectacular any time of the year. But by far the best time is during the awesome autumn months for the colorful New England colors.
Rock Carvings near the summit from the 1800's are very interesting and worth while to checkout.
Getting ThereBig Hollow Trailhead
Exit the NYS Thruway at exit 20; turn left onto Route 32 at the light. Head West over the Thruway for 0.2 of a mile. Follow route 32 for a total of 6.2 miles at which time you will want to stay left on route 32A at the “Y”. Follow this to Palenville for 1.9 miles at which time you will want to stay left on 23A at the “Y”. Follow route 23A for 6.8 miles while passing through Haines Falls to the Town of Tannersville. At the only (as of 2002) traffic light in Tannersville turn right on route 23C (Hill Street- north) for 2.1miles to a “Y” intersection and the All Souls Church, stay left for another 1.1 miles (down hill) to East Jewett. Continue straight for another 2.9 miles to county route 40. Turn Right on route 40 towards Maple Crest. Head north for 1.9 miles on route 40 to Maple Crest. Stay right onto county route 56, Big Hollow Road (route 40 bears Left to Hensonville). Follow Big Hollow Road for 4.3 miles to the end and the Trailhead.
Barnum Road Trailhead
Exit the NYS Thruway at exit 20; turn left onto Route 32 at the light. Head West over the Thruway for 0.2 of a mile. Follow route 32 for a total of 6.2 miles at which time you will want to stay left on route 32A at the “Y”. Follow this to Palenville for 1.9 miles at which time you will want to stay left on 23A at the “Y”. Follow route 23A for 6.8 miles while passing through Haines Falls to the Town of Tannersville. At the only (as of 2002) traffic light in Tannersville turn right on route 23C (Hill Street- north) for 2.1miles to a “Y” intersection and the All Souls Church, stay left for another 1.1 miles (down hill) to East Jewett. Continue straight for another 2.9 miles to county route 40. Turn Right on route 40 towards Maple Crest. Head north for 1.6 miles to Barnum Road, turn right on Barnum road. Follow Barnum road east for 1.1 miles to the end and the Trailhead.
Red TapeSee the NYS Dep. of Environmental Conservation Web Site
Red Tape and info about Back Country Camping.
When To ClimbCan be climb at anytime. Remember in winter to bring snowshoes and crampons.
CampingBack Country Camping
Red Tape and info about Back Country Camping.
Mountain ConditionsThis link will give you Weather in the Catskills
Not exclusive to The Blackhead Mountains but might contain some up to date weather info
Trail Conditions
Mountain BikingRules of Mountain Biking
Rules of Mountain Bike
If looking for a place to stay and have a guided ride contact Mountain Bike Inn and ask for Ernie. Tell him Rik sent you, either you'll get a deal or a screwing. Regardless of the out come you'll have fun.
Long Path InformationFor information about the Long Path Trail from Phoenicia to Windham click here.
Special ThanksSpecial thanks to grandwazoo for his original submission of this beautiful mountain.
Summit Picture LogPost your summit mugshot here.
External Links Images
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Catskill Range
