Hike Slide Mountain in the Catskills

Catskills Trail Conditions

A round-up of current Catskills Trail Conditions. Reported by hikers fresh off the trails.

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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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sunset view from rocky ledge

How Windy is Too Windy To Hike?

I moved my hike from a windy Friday to a less windy (but much colder) Saturday. 80% of my online followers agreed with me. Here’s why.

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sunset over mountain peaks

Shop @TotalCatskills Prints

Many of my best photos are now for sale, framed, via an exclusive deal with KeepsakeFrames that entitles you to 15% off 5 frames!

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snowshoe trench in snow

Trail Terms: Winter Lingo

Once the cold weather sets in, you’ll start to see and hear these winter trail terms online in forums and social posts. Here’s what they all mean.

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upturned trail crampons showing spikes

Winter Hiking Gear: Microspikes

Microspikes have, effectively, opened up the world of winter hiking

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Ashokan Rail Trail wooden bench beside reservoir with mountain views

Hiking Safe 101

Yes, your planned hike is popular and even kids do it regularly — it still might kill you

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orange steel and concrete bridge

Ashokan Rail Trail

Take a leisurely nature stroll (or cycle) along the scenic Ashokan Rail Trail, a premier Catskills destination.

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fresh shoes on feet, and sour shoes and socks to the side

10 Best Post-Hike Hacks

One of my favorite post-hike hacks is to have a clean pair of socks and shoes waiting for me back at the car. It’s so amazing. Here are ten fantastic ways to treat yourself after a big day.

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Kaaterskill Falls 7279 hiking trail

Death at Kaaterskill Falls

A young man from Yonkers went missing. After several days, his body was recovered from the base of the falls.

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screenshot of hiking gear products

Hiking & Camping Gear List

There’s so much to read and learn about hiking gear. Here’s a basic list of the things you’ll use most often on your day hikes and campouts.

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large glacial erratic boulders with mountain summits behind

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.

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cabin in snow on mountain summit

Hunter Mountain Fire Tower (Best Route)

This moderate and very scenic hike can be completed in 4-5 hrs. This is the easiest route to climb Hunter Mountain.

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red snowshoes stacked on wooden floor

Snowshoe Basics

The number of snowshoe options is overwhelming. Here’s a quick guide on what to look for, and where to get your first pair.

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orange canister affixed to tree trunk

Fir & Big Indian

This long hike mixes beautiful Catskills trails and fun water crossings with a long bushwhack section over two substantial mountain peaks.

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large boulder protruding from mountain

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.

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