view from balsam lake fire tower of balsam forest below

Balsam Lake Fire Tower (updated)

Incredible 360° wilderness views make this hike spectacular at any time of year.

Read ›

Devil’s Path Trail (Ultimate Guide)

Everything you need to know about the Devils Path — one of the most difficult hiking trails in New York State.

Read ›

jay mountain ridge in the Adirondacks

Jay Mountain Ridge

Jay Mountain Ridge stands as the most rewarding and memorable hiking experience I had in 2022.

Read ›

fall view from jay mountain ridge in the adirondracks

Best Hikes of 2022

These are the best hikes I did in 2022 — 17 amazing day-hikes sorted by level of difficulty.

Read ›

catskills red barn and sugarloaf mountain seen in the snow

Sugarloaf in Winter (Safest Route)

A beautiful hike to one of the grandest of Catskills high peaks.

Read ›

fire tower shot from below

Catskills Fire Tower Challenge 2023

Everything you need to complete the Catskills Fire Tower Challenge.

Read ›

catskills sunrise/sunset view

Burroughs Range Trail Loop

Incredible two-day hike over the highest and finest terrain in The Catskills.

Read ›

Jay Mountain summit in the Adirondacks

Jay Mountain

An undulating woods hike to stunning views from multiple lookouts.

Read ›

hikers sitting around high falls convervation area waterfall

High Falls Conservation Area

Short, easy hiking trails wind through High Falls Conservation Area to one of the most spectacular waterfalls in New York.

Read ›

inspiration point view

Inspiration Point (Catskills)

Inspiration Point in Kaaterskill Clove is one of the top scenic destinations in The Catskills.

Read ›

View of Hudson River and Bear Mountain Bridge at sunset from Anthony’s Nose

Anthony’s Nose from Camp Smith II

This route to the wonderful scenic lookout on Anthony’s Nose is gentler than the classic route from the north.

Read ›

acre point view of burnt knob in The Catskills, a snowy mountain winter scene

Acra Point & Batavia Kill Loop with Burnt Knob Lookout

Acra Point & Burnt Knob is one of the most beautiful hikes in The Catskills. Gorgeous trails for miles, plus two amazing lookouts.

Read ›

rocks and roots on baxter mountain

Baxter Mountain Trail

Baxter Mountain Trail in the Adirondacks is on of the sweetest trails in Keene Valley. Baxter is also one of the most hike-able and scenic peaks in the area.

Read ›

Kaaterskill Falls Fall Foliage 2022

Catskills Fall Foliage Report

The best Catskills Fall Foliage Report because it’s direct from the Catskills!

Read ›

large glacial boulders and trail signage in forest pointing to Rooster Comb

Rooster Comb

The trail to Rooster Comb in the Adirondacks is relentlessly uphill but also quite short. Enjoy 3 fantastic lookouts, each more stunning that the last.

Read ›

Adirondacks fall foliage valley scene Jay Mountain

6 Incredible Fall Foliage Hikes in the Adirondacks

When that Adirondack fall foliage hits, you don’t want to miss it. Here’s a selection of incredible hikes to view the ADK extravaganza.

Read ›

Hello, I’m Sean

I write independent hiking content to help hikers like you find amazing hikes in the Catskills, Adirondacks, Gunks, Hudson Highlands, Taconics and beyond.

On social media, I’m @TotalCatskills. Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.

My free weekly hiking newsletter is low key awesome.

You won’t regret signing up…