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.

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Brook with chasm-like walls

Secret Hike: Waterfall Superhighway

A stunning Catskills “canyon” dotted with multiple gorgeous waterfalls.

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scenic view mountain summits

Van Wyck to Table & Peekamoose (updated)

Two plane wrecks. Two bear holes. Two talus fields. One incredible view.

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escarpment trail route to inspiration point

The Catskills Most Frequently Asked Questions

These are the most frequently asked questions about The Catskills, according to Google.

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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.

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The summit of Croagh Patrick seen from its main hiking trail

Croagh Patrick Trail Guide

One of the most scenic hikes in Ireland.

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two waterfalls side by side

Diamond Notch Falls via Spruceton

A short, easy mountain hike to a true Catskills gem: Diamond Notch Falls.

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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.

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lions head summit marker in taconics

Lions Head Hiking Trail

Lions Head Trail is a delightful Taconic hike that you can fit into any day, with great views.

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sunset rock in the taconics, covered in snow and seen at sunset

Sunset Rock Trail (Taconics)

A short rugged, riparian hike to Sunset Rock, a stunning Taconic scenic spot.

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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.

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Hurricane Ledge on Kaaterskill High Peak

Kaaterskill High Peak via Hurricane Ledge

Hiking Kaaterskill High Peak via Hurricane Ledge means a long wet hike in to the base of the summit — but then an epic Catskills climb.

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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.

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fire tower shot from below

Catskills Fire Tower Challenge 2023

Everything you need to complete the Catskills Fire Tower Challenge.

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catskills sunrise/sunset view

Burroughs Range Trail Loop

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

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Best Hikes Scotland and Scottish Highlands

Are These the 46 Best Hikes in Scotland?

It’s up for debate. But not the quality of views on offer.

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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.

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