This fun, out-and-back trail hike to Panther Mountain (3724') includes impressive views from Giant Ledge along the way.. With a 6.6-mile round trip distance and an elevation gain of approximately 1500’, this hike is rated as moderate. The pace of the hike will be moderate (about 1-1/2 mph moving speed, typically) with steep climbs, and short breaks. The expected duration of the hike is five to six hours.
Hikers need to bring lunch/ food, water/ sports drink, snowshoes, traction aids (e.g. microspikes), warm layers of clothes, proper outerwear, winter boots, gaiters, and poles.
This hike is limited to 12 participants and registration is required. To register, contact Marv Freedman at marvfreedman@gmail.com Please include your cell number in your registration request. Dogs are permitted with the permission of the event leader. Meeting place and time, route details, and required gear are subject to change based on weather forecast, trail conditions, etc. Updated information will be provided via email, usually about two to four days before the hike. (More info below.)
We'll meet at the Giant Ledge Trailhead at the hairpin turn on Ulster Co. Hwy 47/ Oliverea Road at 8:00 am. To reach the trailhead from State Route 28 in Big Indian, take Ulster Co. Hwy 47 south for 7.2 miles (following signs) and see the parking area just before the road takes a sharp uphill right turn.
GPS Coordinates for Giant Ledge Trailhead: 42.02651, -74.40350
Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/SSSimAxVwbZdHuzz5
More info
Bring:
• Headlamps with extra batteries
• Poles with snow baskets
• Warm, water resistant boots
• Gaiters
• Traction aides
• Snowshoes
• Extra mittens, liners, caps
• Survival gear/supplies (puffy, bivy, fire starting materials, extra food/water)
• Snow shovel, ice scraper, tow rope in car
• Change of boots/clothes in car
• Sleeping bag/blanket in car
Also from Marv:
• I can provide loaner gear. Tell me what you need.
• Set up Google offline mapping so you can head home without cell service.
• Well behaved dogs are generally welcome, with my permission. Please request my permission before bringing a dog. My standards for what constitutes a "well behaved" dog are pretty high. Please tell me if you're uncomfortable hiking with dogs.