Top Rope Ice Climbing in New York

Right now I am currently in the process of planning a weekend away for the first weekend of March. At this point I am not exactly sure where but will be either Catskills or Adirondacks. I hope to do some ice climbing. I have been out with a guide numerous times and have experience setting up top ropes rock climbing but this would be my first time ice climbing out by myself. I will be with someone with the same experience. I am looking for an area that has easy access to the top so I can just walk around to set up the top rope. Any suggestions?

Not looking favorable for ice in the Catskills herein.

In the ADKs, Pitchoff Quarry/Cliff in Cascade Pass comes to mind. Loch Ness near Hurricane Mt. Some spots in Chapel Pond pass, which can be approached from the Beer Walls if the pond ice is questionable.

Something to consider - most easily approached walls with top roping get busy, especially if climbable ice is at a premium. Get there early. Don't be afraid to rap to the tree you will be using as an anchor. Much better than slipping off the edge.

What Kevin said. Pitchoff Right in Cascade Pass especially is very busy, but perfect for toprope. Last time I was there, a bunch of school kids were learning to climb, but they didn't show up until after 10. It got crowded.

Years ago, I did some climbs that you can scramble around to set up a top rope in Chapel Pond Canyon, but it's much more of a hike and requires some imagination. I remember hiking past all kinds of intimidating single pitch leads and thinking we weren't going to find anything suitable.

Alternatively, you could hire a guide and do cooler stuff. ;-)