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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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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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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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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Jay Mountain summit in the Adirondacks

Jay Mountain

An undulating woods hike to stunning views from multiple lookouts.

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inspiration point view

Inspiration Point (Catskills)

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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blue trail blaze affixed to tree near stone steps

Red Hill Fire Tower from Denning

This new route to Red Hill Fire Tower is a little longer and tougher than the classic route, but so much sweeter.

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Seymour mountain hikers in rainy muddy forest

Seymour Mountain Trail Guide

Even in lousy conditions, the long, difficult hike to Seymour Mountain in the Seward Range is super rewarding.

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snow-covered summit with rock cairn and signposts

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.

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summit of moxham mountain in the distance, snowing

Moxham in the Snow

This is a gem of a hike on a gem of a mountain.

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photo of fire tower at Hadley Mountain

Hadley Mountain Fire Tower

Delightful hike, sometimes steep, but a very rewarding payoff from Hadley Mountain Fire Tower.

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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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