Slide Mountain stands as the Catskills' crown—at 4,180 feet, it's the highest peak in the range and a must-climb for anyone serious about New York hiking. Unlike the bare summits of the Adirondacks, Slide's peak is forested, but viewpoints along the trail reveal the Catskills spreading in every direction.
The mountain's name comes from a massive landslide that occurred in 1820, stripping trees from the southeastern face. Today, that slide path has regrown, but the name stuck. The trails through old-growth forest add to Slide's appeal—you're walking through centuries of history.
Trail Options
Via Curtis-Ormsbee Trail
- Distance: 6.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,800 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
The most popular route begins at the Slide Mountain trailhead and follows the Curtis-Ormsbee Trail to the summit. The climb is steady but never brutal, passing through beautiful second-growth and old-growth forest.
Via Phoenicia-East Branch Trail
- Distance: 9.4 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,500 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
A longer approach from the south, passing the summit of Giant Ledge along the way. This route offers more variety and the option to bag multiple peaks.
Slide-Cornell-Wittenberg Loop
- Distance: 9.5 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: 3,000 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
The classic Catskill three-peak day, combining Slide with neighboring Cornell and Wittenberg. Outstanding views from Wittenberg make this a peak-bagger's favorite.
The Summit and Views
Slide's summit is mostly forested, with a viewpoint requiring a short walk from the high point. What you'll see:
- South: Cornell and Wittenberg, your neighbors on the ridge
- West: The western Catskills rolling to the horizon
- East: The Hudson Valley on clear days
The summit area features a small clearing and the remains of an old fire tower foundation. A plaque commemorates the mountain's significance as the Catskill high point.
Old-Growth Forest
One of Slide Mountain's treasures is the virgin spruce-fir forest near the summit. These trees escaped logging due to the mountain's steepness and remoteness. Walking through them feels like stepping back in time:
- Some trees are over 300 years old
- The forest floor is carpeted with moss
- Bird species include boreal specialists
This old-growth zone is fragile—stay on established trails to protect it.
When to Hike
- May-October: Best conditions
- Summer: Lush forest; some muddy sections
- Fall: Excellent foliage from viewpoints
- Winter: Beautiful snowshoeing; shorter days
- Spring: Trails can be extremely muddy
Weather Considerations
The Catskills create their own weather. Fog, rain, and wind are common on Slide's summit even when valleys are clear. Bring layers.
Practical Information
Trailhead Access
The main Slide Mountain trailhead is on County Route 47 in the Slide Mountain Wilderness, accessed from Route 28 or Phoenicia.
Parking
The trailhead parking area fills on nice weekends. Arrive early or visit midweek.
Fees
No parking fee at the trailhead.
What to Bring
- Sturdy hiking boots (rocky trail)
- Layers for summit weather
- Plenty of water
- Rain gear (weather changes fast)
Quick Reference
| Route | Distance | Gain | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Curtis-Ormsbee | 6.0 mi | 1,800 ft | Moderate |
| Via Phoenicia | 9.4 mi | 2,500 ft | Strenuous |
| S-C-W Loop | 9.5 mi | 3,000 ft | Strenuous |
Slide Mountain is the Catskills' essential hike—the highest peak in a range that defined American wilderness aesthetics for generations. The combination of summit accomplishment and old-growth forest makes it special. Any serious New York hiker needs to stand on top of Slide at least once.
