The Difficult Hikes
These hikes, whether in The Catskills or Adirondacks, are definitely challenging/workout hikes.
Make sure you have read the wilderness safety section and are well equipped with at least The Ten Essentials.
Nun-Da-Ga-O Ridge Loop
The Nun-Da-Ga-O ridge is as magical as it is tough. Do not let these easy-sounding mileage and elevation stats trick you!
Panther Mountain from Woodland Valley
The Woodland Valley route to Panther is not a trail section that many people use — which just makes it all the more appealing.
Mombaccus & Ashokan High Point
This steep, difficult double-peak hike is so rewarding on so many levels.
Race Brook Falls & Mount Everett
This rugged route passes along the bottom of Race Brook Falls, then climbs through beautiful forest to a scenic lookout beyond the summit of Mount Everett.
Plateau & Daley Ridge Lookout
This is the quickest route to Plateau Mountain’s summit. A side-hike down Daley Ridge brings you to a second amazing scenic lookout.
Richmond Mountain & Richtmyer Peak
Just parking for Richmond Mountain is 4WD dirt road dogfight.
Schunemunk Mountain Loop
The terrain is the star on this mostly moderate hike over Schunemunk’s two ridges. This long, challenging route includes the base of Moodna Viaduct, The Megaliths, and excellent views.
Giant Mountain
Giant Mountain is one of the most popular peaks in the Adirondacks. This route offers a super fun climb and a super scenic descent.
Giant’s Nubble via Roaring Brook Falls
The steep hike to Giant’s Nubble includes an epic waterfall — top and bottom — as well as incredible views of the surrounding high peaks.
West Kill via Diamond Notch Falls
One of my favorite hikes in The Catskills, the route from Diamond Notch Falls to Buck Ridge Lookout and the summit of West Kill Mountain is just so beautiful.
Plateau from Stony Clove Notch
After a steep mile, this hike up Plateau rewards with three great scenic lookouts — and then an easy walk across a stunningly wooded ridge.
Balanced Rocks & Pitchoff
This short but difficult hike to Balanced Rocks and Pitchoff’s summit can be done in 4-5 hours. Exceptional views at many points along this beautiful trail.
Twin Mountain via Jimmy Dolan Notch
This quick ascent to a gorgeous two-peaked Catskill ridge includes a fun, tricky rock scramble — and one of the truly great views in the Catskill Park.
Eagle Mountain from Seager
Not many people hike this way to Eagle but it’s the most beautiful route. The Seager Big Indian trail which passes along Dry Brook is uniquely challenging and magical.
Belleayre via Lost Clove
This challenging out and back begins with one of the steepest trails in the Catskills, passes over two sub-peaks and visits two lean-tos on the way to a ski resort with a scenic view.
