Two More Private Catskill Hundred Highest Peaks(Catskills)

With the fall season in full swing now, a trip north would seem to be in the cards today, but an iffy forecast had my buddy Jim and I scratching our heads as to where to go.  When the forecast called for the  Adirondacks to get washed out, it made our decision to go down to the Catskills an easy one. We headed out to the western Catskills to nab two more hundred highest peaks, which would put 97/102 under my belt.  The drive to this area of the Catskills, as always, is a highlight of the day. 

Although the rain was forecast to hold off in the Catskills until later in the day, the mountains were draped in low clouds and fog much of the day.  This is a rural scene near South Gilboa, with Utsayantha Mountain in the clouds above.

Fall colors on Delaware County backroads.

We started our day from a small parcel of DEP land, enjoying views of the nearby peaks, covered in a layer of mist.

Ascending up through a field of goldenrod.

What Catskill bushwhack would be complete without a woods road and stone fence? They have accompanied us on many of these peaks.

The summit, which sits over 3000 feet, was completely fogged in, making for an eerie scene.

Descending through a meadow of golden ferns.

Both of today's bushwhacks were quite enjoyable through open hardwoods.

Back down in the lower meadows, just over 2000 feet in elevation, with views of the surrounding peaks.

Meadow views to the SE.

Early color on these maples graced us as we crossed through the lower meadows.

Swirling clouds across the valley.

To get to our second peak of the day, it was a short, scenic drive through Township Valley.  Narrow Notch Mountain rises above working farmland here.

A woods road helped us along the way on our second peak. Although it did help us with the ascent, we did bushwhack much of the higher parts of the summit ridge.

After hitting our second summit of the day, which was in a large area of prickers, we wasted no time heading back.  From just below the summit, we found some peek a boo views towards the nearby mountains, framed perfectly by the autumn colors.

Scenic power line views from high up on the shoulder of the mountain.

We hiked about 4.5 miles RT, with over 1900 feet of ascent for the day.  Luckily the rain held off, and we enjoyed pleasantly cool conditions.  97/102.