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