Giant Ledge & Panther Mountain and Wood-Fired Pizza (3/15)
Required Catskills 3500 Winter Peak. Join us for one of the best day hikes near NYC, with expansive, jaw-dropping viewpoints on Giant Ledge to the enchanting spruce-fir forest cloaking the summit of Panther Mountain. This hike offers a great combination of breathtaking scenery and stunning terrain along the way. After a challenging day on trail, we'll treat ourselves to wood-fired pizza at our favorite spot, Brio’s in Phoenicia, NY, because nothing beats good food after a great hike!
Why we love this hike: Giant Ledge is the star of this hike, offering some of the most stunning, panoramic viewpoints in the Catskills. From there, we’ll follow a beautiful, quieter trail to the summit of Panther, where the forested landscape is nothing short of magical. It's an incredible way to experience the Catskills in winter—sweeping vistas, peaceful trails, and an unbeatable sense of accomplishment.
The Destination Backcountry difference: With microspikes and snowshoes for added traction and stability, we’ll navigate this popular trail with ease and avoid the common pitfalls that can make winter hiking challenging. Our experienced guides will ensure you're prepared and comfortable every step of the way.
Trip stats
- Distance: ~6.6 miles
- Elevation Gain: ~1700 ft
- Difficulty rating: Moderate hike up to Giant Ledge; challenging ascent to Panther
Most trips will depart at 6:30am near the Barclays Center and 7:00am near Grand Central. You will be notified in advance if departure times and locations differ for your trip.
Yes! Your adventure includes a breakfast of fresh fruit and donuts and a selection of coffee and tea for the drive to the trailhead. On winter hikes, we serve a hot gourmet lunch and snacks, plus hot tea, coffee, and hot cocoa in the woods. We offer vegetarian and vegan options, and we’re happy to accommodate any dietary and allergy needs.
Snowshoes and/or microspikes are included with all winter adventures when required for trail conditions. For deep snow, we'll have snowshoes and for lighter snow and ice we will use microspikes. For some hikes, we'll use both!
Wear comfortable, breathable clothes in layers. Start with a base layer of non-cotton material and follow with 2-3 layers of varying weight. Snow pants or ski pants are good, but not essential. Parka, shells, or other outer layers for your top should be wind resistant (most are). You can read more about clothing for winter day hikes here.
We will provide a detailed packing list based on conditions before your adventure. Below is a sample packing list:
- 2, 1-liter water bottles
- Headlamp
- Sunglasses
- Extra layers of clothes
- Extra socks
- Hat and gloves
- Footwear: insulated hiking boots are ideal, but "around NYC" winter boots will work as well if insulated/waterproof.
Your guides will provide all group gear (water filter, etc.). We do not require any specialized gear for our day hikes, and you most likely have everything you need already. We’re happy to answer questions and offer advice to ensure you have everything you need.
You will receive a confirmation email for your adventure within 24 hours of booking. Your guide will reach out 7-10 days before your adventure with an update on trail conditions, weather, a suggested packing list, and more.
Visit our FAQ page here.
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