Cathole Mountain, , is the lowest peak in the
trap rock
Trap rock, also known as either trapp or trap, is any dark-colored, fine-grained, non-granitic intrusive or extrusive igneous rock. Types of trap rock include basalt, peridotite, diabase, and gabbro.Neuendorf, K.K.E., J.P. Mehl, Jr., and J.A. ...
Hanging Hills of
Meriden, Connecticut. The rugged southern ledges of the mountain rise steeply above the city of Meriden. The mountain is separated from
South Mountain by the narrow, rocky Cathole Pass through which
Connecticut Route 71
Route 71 is a north–south state highway in Connecticut, running from Wallingford to West Hartford. It is the main north–south road of Meriden, Berlin and New Britain.
Route description
Route 71 begins at an intersection with US 5 ...
ascends.
The mountain consists of two prominences, the southern ledges and the main peak one mile to the north. The 51 mile
Metacomet Trail crosses Cathole Mountain and offers views of Cathole Pass. The cliffs continue south with views over Meriden, but there is no official trail that runs the length of them. Activities enjoyed on the peak include
hiking
Hiking is a long, vigorous walk, usually on trails or footpaths in the countryside. Walking for pleasure developed in Europe during the eighteenth century.AMATO, JOSEPH A. "Mind over Foot: Romantic Walking and Rambling." In ''On Foot: A Histor ...
,
rock climbing, and in the winter,
snowshoeing.
Much of the northern half of the mountain is privately owned.
Adjacent summits
See also
*
Metacomet Ridge
The Metacomet Ridge, Metacomet Ridge Mountains, or Metacomet Range of southern New England is a narrow and steep fault-block mountain ridge known for its extensive cliff faces, scenic vistas, microclimate ecosystems, and rare or endangered plants. ...
*
Mattabesett Trail
The Mattabesett Trail is a long, hook-shaped blue-blazed hiking trail in central Connecticut and a part of the New England National Scenic Trail. One half of the trail follows the high traprock ridges of the Metacomet Ridge, from Totoket Mount ...
References
''Connecticut Walk Book'' 17th ed. Connecticut Forest and Park Association.
External links
The City of Meriden
{{Mountains of Connecticut
Meriden, Connecticut
Hanging Hills
Mountains of Connecticut
Tourist attractions in New Haven County, Connecticut
Landforms of New Haven County, Connecticut