Hike the Catskills’ Most Challenging Trail in New York for an Unforgettable Adventure

A good hike is a great way to spend a day, and it can be a suitable adventure for all ages and skill levels. There are so many great, peaceful, easy hikes that provide a break from the everyday routine, and then there are those hikes that test your endurance and wits before rewarding you with a fantastic sight that can only be seen by those willing to work for it. That's exactly the type of trail you'll find at the Slide Mountain Out-and-Back, a 5.3-mile Catskills hiking trail rated hard by AllTrails. This mighty trail is found in Catskills Park, not far from Kingston, and its remote location and challenging terrain mean this is an ideal adventure to remember for experienced hikers. You'll take a unique journey into New York's ecosystem and history as you conquer a trail that feels like a badge of honor.

The Slide Mountain Out-and-Back Trail is one of New York's most challenging, boasting an impressive 1,781-foot elevation gain over its 5.3-mile length. That makes it an all-day adventure, especially during the cooler months.

The craggy, well-maintained but uneven, path has some beautiful rock formations along the way. It's ideal for experienced hikers looking for a unique spot to explore, and dogs are welcome as long as they're kept on a leash.

Part of the park is dedicated to John Burroughs, the writer and naturalist who was key to introducing the Catskills to the American audience in his writings. One look at this place illustrates why he was so enchanted by it.

One of the best things about this area is how untouched it is. The high elevation leads to a unique ecosystem, filled with mossy areas and plenty of mushrooms. This is a very popular spot for mushroom hunting and foraging; bring a reliable guide and pick with caution!

The view when you finish the trail is well worth the adventure, and the whole area is incredibly gorgeous in the middle of fall foliage.

Have you conquered the Slide Mountain Out-and-Back Trail? Let us know what you saw on this unique Catskills hiking trail! For more details and pictures, check out the official AllTrails trail listing, and we highly recommend you subscribe to AllTrails + for this one. The challenging terrain and winding path will be much easier to navigate when you have this app, which offers downloadable trail guides with point-by-point directions, no matter where you are. If you're up for a lighter adventure after this hike, check out why we think Kingston is the perfect fall day trip.