Advanced Hike: Giant Ledge & Panther Mountain

MUST REGISTER HERE TO ATTEND https://joinoutsiders.com/events

This one is for the seasoned hikers. Join us for a challenging winter trek to two of the Catskills' most rewarding viewpoints, Giant Ledge and the summit of Panther Mountain, deep in the Slide Mountain Wilderness. It is a demanding day on the trail, and the payoff is spectacular: the wide-open ledges of Giant Ledge deliver a sweeping panorama of the Burroughs Range, with Wittenberg, Cornell, and Slide standing across the valley, all framed by fresh winter light and snow-dusted summits.
We will climb the classic route from the Route 47 trailhead, gaining steady elevation through hardwood forest and stands of spruce and fir before reaching the string of open overlooks at Giant Ledge, then pushing on to the wooded summit of Panther Mountain, one of the Catskill 3500 peaks. This is a strenuous, full-commitment winter hike with steep, rocky, and likely snow-covered or icy terrain, so come prepared with proper traction and layers, and ready to earn the view.

## EVENT TIMELINE

• 8:00 AM: Meet at The Standard Biergarten (Meatpacking)
• 8:30 AM: Depart NYC
• 10:45 AM: Arrive at the Route 47 trailhead and begin hike
• 12:00 PM: Reach Giant Ledge, photo break at the overlooks
• 1:15 PM: Summit Panther Mountain, lunch and photos
• 2:00 PM: Begin descent
• 4:00 PM: Complete hike and regroup
• 4:30 PM: Head to a local eatery for food and drinks
• 6:00 PM: Depart back to NYC
• 8:30 PM (approx.): Arrive back in the city

All timing is approximate and subject to change based on group pace and conditions.

## WHAT'S INCLUDED IN YOUR TICKET

• Roundtrip transportation from NYC
• Guided hike led by OUTSIDERS hiking guides
• Parking and trail access fees
• Complimentary water and beverages on the ride home

## HIKE DETAILS

• Trail: Giant Ledge and Panther Mountain via the Phoenicia-East Branch Trail (from the Route 47 trailhead)
• Location: Catskill Park, Slide Mountain Wilderness
• Mileage: approx. 6.6 miles (out and back)
• Elevation Gain: approx. 1,900 ft
• Summit: Panther Mountain, approx. 3,720 ft (a Catskill 3500 peak)
• Difficulty: Strenuous / Advanced (steep, rocky terrain with winter conditions)

(Trail details to be finalized)

## WHAT TO BRING

• Sturdy, broken-in insulated hiking boots (a must for this terrain)
• Traction devices such as microspikes (required for icy, snow-covered trail)
• Warm, weather-appropriate layers for higher elevations
• At least 2 to 3 liters of water (an insulated bottle helps prevent freezing)
• A packed trail lunch and high-energy snacks
• Warm hat, insulated gloves, and an extra warm layer (summits run cold and windy in December)
• Headlamp (recommended, as daylight is short this time of year)
• Trekking poles (recommended)

## IMPORTANT NOTES

• This is an advanced winter hike intended for experienced hikers in good physical condition. Prior experience with long, strenuous climbs in cold-weather conditions is strongly recommended.
• Winter conditions mean snow, ice, and cold. Proper traction and insulated layers are required, and participation may be denied for anyone without appropriate winter gear.
• Our adventures are full-day experiences. We do not recommend scheduling other activities that day, as return times can vary.
• Unsafe or unsuitable attire and footwear may result in denied participation for safety reasons. Proper insulated hiking boots are required.
• If you have any medical conditions or injuries that might prevent you from safely completing a strenuous winter hike, please consult your physician before signing up.
• A signed waiver is required to join the trip.

Come ready to challenge yourself, chase the views, and stand on top of the Catskills in the crisp beauty of winter.