Catskills: Fir + Big Indian
November 2022 | near Claryville, NY
Region: Big Indian Wilderness
The background: This was it - technically, my last two hikes to complete all 33 Catskill 3500’ers (it used to be 35, but the club more recently eliminated two due to private property closures.) I would still have two more to complete for winter credit, but this hike would bring me to completion of all the different mountains required to summit. Unique to the Catskill Club, 4 of the hikes must be repeated in the winter season (Dec. 21- March 21 inclusive.) More details about the club and requirements, here.
The hike: ~ 10 miles, elevation gain 2,400 feet. Partial herd path/ bushwhack to and from Fir, orange canisters at both treed-in summits.
The route: Counter-clockwise loop: Pine Hill West Branch Trail to Fir herd path; continued on herd path to Big Indian. Herd path (about .25 mile) back to the Pine Hill West Branch Trail, eventually meeting the same trail where you initially started your ascent. There are water crossings, so be prepared with a change of socks (or 2) if needed…
Getting to the trailhead: you’ll park at the Biscuit Brook Trailhead (accurate location is on maps.) It’s about a 35-minute drive from Liberty (south) and 30-minute drive from Phoenicia (north.) The small parking lot is across the street from where the trail picks up. There is a sign indicating you are on the right path, with a trail register a few feet onto the trail.
Conclusion: While I would not say this was the most difficult hike I have completed in the Catskills, don’t underestimate the length and the elevation gain. While the bushwhack is part of the fun (mostly) when completing the 3500’s, definitely be prepared and understand that part of the challenge will be navigation. The water crossing is also quite significant, so be prepared to wade across or wait for a day with lower water levels if you are not into this kind of thing.
An ideal day and what you can pair this hike with: this is a great day on its own, but if you want to cool-down with one more hike, I recommend checking out Red Hill Fire Tower (just plan your driving route ahead of time since you will most likely not have cell service. It’s approximately 17 minutes south.)
If you are working on your 3500’ers, you could also add on Eagle out-and-back from Big Indian for a much longer and more intense day (although I truly enjoyed the route from the other direction with Balsam.)
