At only 1040', Windbeam is the fifth lowest mountain on our NJ1K list, but Windbeam actually takes more vertical climbing to summit than nearly any other mountain in New Jersey.
From the south and west Windbeam is a 700' climb. The Highlands trail's ascent up Windbeam from the south is one of the longest sustained steeps in New Jersey; even providing a false summit and views at Little Windbeam. Even the easier and more frequently climbed western climb via the Stonetown Circular is a 600' climb. Even from the col with Bear Mountain Windbeam is over a 500' climb.
Windbeam and several other fine mountains in the Wyanockies are traversed by the Stonetown Circular. In this picture, Mighty Windbeam as seen from Signal Rock.
| Elevation | 1040 |
| Decimal degrees | 41.0851, -74.2996 |
| County | Passaic |
| Ownership | public |
| Owner | North Jersey District Water Supply Commission |
| Topo map | Acme Mapper |
| Nearest higher neighbor | Long Hill |
Trip Reports
Daniela Wagstaff on 02/20/2022
Summited Windbeam Mountain as part of the Stonetown Circular Trail. All of the snow had melted the previous week, snow squalls came through the day before making for beautiful scenery with just a coating of snow and perfect conditions in 20-30 degree weather for this challenging hike. https://gonehikin.blogspot.com/2022/02/stonetown-circular-nj.html
Matthew Capurso on 11/28/2021
The day was gray and the woods were very quiet. The Mountain stood cold, covered with a light dusting of snow. It was a slow and steady ascent to the sub summit, upon which the trail travels down into a small valley, and then a final climb for the peak. The dirt path opens to the crown of the mountain top, with big boulders and short pine trees. The wind was low, and not one animal in sight. The views left me with a sense of inspiration and calmness. 10/10
Matthew Capurso on 10/17/2021
Difficult trek with steep incline. Countless switchbacks to ascend the mountain. Made it to the false summit- unable to attain highest peak. Very cold and ran out of daylight, will return for second attempt.
Colleen Moyle on 01/16/2021
Trail was wet due to the rain last evening so it was a little slippery in spots. A lot of cars in the lot but only saw one other hiker. Having the trail to ourselves was wonderful. Great views of NYC skyline in distance. This hike is a great aerobic workout. It does not disappoint. Overall another great NJ hike that is less than 10 minutes from my house. Everyday on the a trail is a gift!
Jodi Mensch on 01/16/2021
Plenty of parking in the lot. Easy access to the trail right across the street. Wet in spots due to rain last night. This is a great up and down hike. Keeps the heart pumping for a good workout. Had the summit to ourselves and enjoyed the views of NYC on the way up. Great day on the trail!!
Pictures from Windbeam Mountain
This isn't actually from Windbeam; it's from one of Windbeam's neighbor: Board Mountain. —Eric Koppel
Windbeam as seen from the Northwest. —Eric Koppel
