Hike into the New Year – Catskill 3500: Giant Ledge and Panther
Saturday, January 4, 2025
WINTER CHALLENGE 2025! We are doing all four 3500 peaks that have to be climbed in winter to join the 3500. If you climb all four with us this winter, you will get our Winter Challenge patch! Panther is the first mountain of the challenge!
This hike goes through the region’s most popular wilderness area and traverses the scenic cliffs of an ancient meteorite-impact zone. Giant Ledge, named for its high, vertical cliffs, is famous for its numerous spectacular Catskill views and easier access. For the second half of our adventure, we climb more open rock terraces and continue on to Panther Mountain.
Panther is a required peak for Catskill 3500 Club Membership and #17 Catskill Tall Peak (elevation 3,726′). Panther is one of the four peaks that must be climbed twice, at least once in winter (December 21 – March 21).
What’s included:
- NY State Licensed and Wilderness First Responder Certified Guide
- Transportation to and from NYC (if you would like to meet us at the trailhead, please email info@adventureuntamed.com for a discount)
- Hike of a Catskill 3500 peak
- Geological history from your guide
Level: Challenging (Learn More)
Mileage: 6.85 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,556 feet
Group Size: 2 - 12 adventurers
Departure:
Check-in Time: 6:30 am
Departure Time: 6:45 am
Return Time: Approximately 7:00 pm
$104.00
Wear
- Hiking boots (required)
- Weather-appropriate, moisture-wicking, athletic clothing (no cotton)
- Wool or synthetic socks (no cotton)
- Waterproof gloves
- Warm hat
- Buff
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses
Pack
- We will provide any traction devices you need, but if you have your own microspikes/snowshoes/crampons, feel free to bring them
- Insulating puffy and insulating pants
- Fleece / mid layer
- Windproof/waterproof top and bottom layers that can fit over all other layers
- Lunch
- Ample Snacks
- At least three (3) liters of water (*note* if temperature is below freezing do not bring hydration bladders – will freeze)
- Backpack
- Sunscreen
- Hand / foot warmers (optional)
- Extra layers to adjust for changing weather conditions
- Extra pair of wool socks
- Trekking poles (optional)
- A change of clothes for the ride back (optional)