Catskill’s Giant Ledge in Winter
Giant Ledge is one of the most popular destinations for day hikers in the Catskills. For many, it is the turn around point, but for others, they pass over it to get to Panther Mountain. Giant ledge offers some of the finest views from a cliff line which is arguably the most stunning in these mountains. It is one of the Catskill 67. Please use caution when at the edge, one misstep would be your…
5 Winter Hiking Tips for Your First Time Out & So You’ll Want to Go Back
Hiking in the winter is a dazzling way to experience the backcountry. Besides there being fewer people, you’ll encounter a beauty that you obviously can’t find in the other seasons. However, for the first time winter back-country traveler, it can be daunting. Compared to other seasons your margin for error in winter is less; meaning the mistakes you make are magnified due to the harsh conditions. A few basic tips will help make your first…
Trail Registers for Beginners – Anatomy and Why to Use Them
Most maintained trails have a trail register and possibly a kiosk. In our many years on the trail we have observed back-country travelers faithfully sign-in and out providing valuable information for authorities. We have also seen hikers, hunters, trail-runners, mountain bikers, etc. pass right by them as they don’t exist. First I have to admit, here in New York, our registers ask for a lot of information which I do not give (i.e., address). Yes,…
Plateau Mountain in the Winter
Plateau Mountain derives its name from its long summit ridge which is relatively flat. Having said that, it does climb a couple of hundred feet to the summit once you have obtained the ridge climbing from Stony Clove. After fresh snow the upper elevations and long summit ridge of Plateau are excellent. At 3836′ it is the 10th highest peak in the Catskills and second tallest on Devil’s Path. There are three ways to the…
Best Hikes: The Kaaterskill Rail Trail In The Catskill Mountains
Winter is upon us. With several snowfalls already there are hopes of a good year for snow related sports. We’ll keep our fingers crossed! A great addition to the trail system in the Catskills for both beginner snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter mountain biking is The Kaaterskill Rail Trail. The trail is located just to the north of the Kaaterskill Wild Forest for most of its length. The Kaaterskill Rail Trail is currently a 1.5 mile…