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,…
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…
Blog post: A Memory of a Winter Without Snow
So we are into spring. Looking back on this past winter all I can think of is “blah”. It’s somewhat rare in the Catskills that we don’t get much snow. Not only is it rare, but it’s disappointing for those of us who thrive on back-country activities that require it. I guess chalk one up for climate change. But the Catskills is not the only wintry place impacted. But really, who am I to complain as we…