Catskills: Giant Ledge and Panther

April 22, 2022 | Big Indian, NY

Region: Slide Mountain Wilderness

The background: this was truly a redemption hike for me…believe it or not, my first attempt at starting the Catskill 3500’ers was here back in summer 2019! I was hiking solo and turned around on the col to Panther when I saw a bear on trail in front of me. I ran back to Giant Ledge (don’t do this!!!) and learned what to do in a situation going forward. It was nice to be back here with more experience and knowledge under my belt, yet again solo, but this time - unafraid for what the trail had in store.

The hike: 6.5 miles (10.46km) out and back; approx. 1,900 feet (579m) of elevation gain. Trail is well-marked and no technical sections will need to be navigated. No canister on Panther and no official signage. Excellent views from Giant Ledge. You can’t miss them, but be sure to take some time on the way back to soak them all in!

An ideal day and what you can pair this hike with: While an enjoyable hike on its own, I will never tell you not to keep hiking if you’re prepared and have the energy! Some nearby options are Red Hill fire tower and Slide Mountain.

Note: if hiking in winter or shoulder season conditions as shown below, be prepared with layers, proper socks, insulated footwear, and microspikes or snowshoes depending on the conditions. My rule of thumb is to always carry microspikes in my pack until at least mid-May (unless a recent report indicates I should otherwise.)