Catskill 100 Public Peaks: Criteria

Created, compiled and researched by Margaret McGrath based on work by Mark Schaefer
Acme Maps by Tom Rankin

General Comments

This list is to provide a Challenge for hikers looking for peaks in the Catskills that do not require permission from owners.

• Most elevations are from the NYNJ Trail Conf Maps 2018 digital version, Jeremy Apgar, Surveyor.
• The order of peaks has been updated per elevation measurements as above.
• The Acme Mapper links (courtesy Tom Rankin) are from a list edited by Mark Schaeffer. Mark received the list from Father Donovan, a founding Catskill 3500 Club member and it’s based on older topos.
• Click on the name for the peaks to open the Acme mapper link. When you open the Acme link, the peak should be in the exact center of the map.
• Two peaks have been replaced with higher summits on the ridge
  • SouthWest Bearpen 3395’ replaces South Bearpen 3394’ as it is shown to be the higher summit on the ridge now. No elevation is shown on Acme.
  • SouthEast Little Rocky 3024’ replaces Little Rocky 3007’ as it is the higher peak on the ridge now. It is between Little Rocky and Mombaccus. It is SE of Little Rocky with no elevation shown on Acme.
• This list has been compiled by Margaret McGrath. These peaks can change based on future information, such as if a private peak becomes public.

The Challenge

1. There are no time limits on this challenge, go as far back as you want.
2. All peaks must be hiked from public access even if you get permission from bordering private property. This keeps it even for everybody.
3. Many of these are true bushwhack peaks, there are no trails or track logs available, and we encourage keeping it that way, i.e. please do not post track logs. Most bushwhacks are easier in leaf-off seasons. Hiking and bushwhacking are inherently dangerous sports. Use of map and compass, GPS, personal locater beacon is advised. To avoid wear on fragile places, please keep your group size small, ideally 4-6 people.
4. The patch will require 16 hours of volunteer service, performed within 1 year prior to finishing. Service must be with an organized, accredited club such as Catskill Mountain Club, Catskill 3500 Club, NYNJ Trail Conference, Catskill Center for Conservation, ADK, fire tower or trailhead steward, summit steward or trail maintenance. Road litter pick up is not included.
5. Follow the principles of Leave No Trace and Wilderness Ethics and Hike Safe
6. This list is a work in progress. Feel free to pass on any differing information you find.
7. Reference the Catskill 3500 Club Tally sheet for trail, bushwhack and canister peaks for peaks 1 to 33. The book “The Other 67” by Alan Via will be helpful for peaks 34 to 75.
8. The NYC DEP (Department Environmental Protection) map is very helpful for determining public approaches to some peaks and is updated more frequently than the NYNJTC 2018 map. It shows both DEP and DEC land. Clicking on the link for the unit will open up a map to print.
9. When you finish, email mmcgrath55@msn.com. You will need to keep track of the dates you climbed and the dates of your service. These dates must be submitted and they need to be verifiable for the service. Your own spreadsheet or Club Tally sheets are acceptable. Patches will be $5.00.