Catskill 3500 Series: Wittenberg, Cornell, Slide Traverse - 11 miles

Wittenberg, Cornell, Slide: The Burroughs Range!

We will meet at the Slide Parking Area and then shuttle as few cars as possible back to Woodland Valley. Then we will rock the 10-11 mile traverse from Woodland valley to Slide Mountain PA Traverse instead of the loop. Address for Woodland Valley Campground is: 1319 Woodland Valley Rd, Phoenicia, NY 12464. Please note there is a day use area fee to park at the Woodland Valley Campground.

This is a strenuous hike. There are no real bailouts after Wittenburg, so please be prepared and in good physical condition before attempting this hike.

Total Mileage: 11 miles
Total Elevation Gain: 4000 feet

Meetup Times and Locations:
8:15 am - Slide Parking Lot on Route 47

My favorite traverse hike in the Catskills offering some of the best views and the tallest peak! Starting at the Woodland Valley Campground, we will hike 3 of the tallest peaks in the Catskills. There are stunning views along the way including the beautiful ledge on Wittenberg mountain.

We go up the Wittenberg-Cornell-Slide trail (red) for just under 4 miles - first steeply, then gently, and finally a bit of a scramble to the summit ledge of Wittenberg. (HUGE views!) This is a good place for a good long break!

Continue on the Wittenberg-Cornell-Slide trail (red) for less than a mile to the classic crag known as Cornell Crack. Scramble up to the top of Cornell Mountain and its modest overlook on the left.

Then we stay on the Wittenberg-Cornell-Slide trail (red) for over 2 miles to the scrambles up the east side of Slide Mountain ending at the summit. (Catskills Highest Point!)

Descend Slide Mountain to the west on the Wittenberg-Cornell-Slide trail (red) until it ends. Turn right on the Phoenicia-East Branch trail (yellow) for the last little bit to the cars.

Pace and Time: This is a very tough day. Moderate to fast pace. 8-9 hours. Please be in good shape.

Special Gear / Requirements:

• Cool wicking clothing
• Backpack
• enough food/water for a full day (I recommend at least 3 liters) There is a spring towards the top of Slide Mountain, but it may not be a dependable this time of year.
• first aid kit
• rain jacket
• headlamp (just in case)
• trail conference map #143
• camera!

NOTE: You are responsible for bringing appropriate gear, supplies, clothing, first aid, and lights. You should review topographic maps and trail features carefully; understanding topography of any hike is key to your knowing where you are, where you're going, and how to get back.

See suggestions for GEAR on the "About" page for additional gear ideas.

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If you join us for a hike (or any other event), please understand that you are responsible for your own preparedness and well-being and will hold no one else liable in case of injury or mishap. You agree not to hold the Organizer, Assistant Organizers, or any other members responsible for any injuries, mishaps, or any other situation that may happen at a planned event. You are responsible to research the event, know the area, and bring the proper gear.

Your attendance on a hike signifies that you have read and accept the terms of this liability waiver.
Full waiver can be found on the ABOUT page.