Camp on Giant Ledge
Big Indian, New York
Details
Distance
1.5 miles
Elevation Gain
975 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Michael Martineau
Let the sunrise be your alarm clock when camping on Giant Ledge.
Giant Ledge is a great hike in the Catskills if you are looking for something short, with incredible views, and camping options. There are not many hikes with better views then this in the Catskills, so why not spend as much time as possible up there? There are a few camping spots you can grab when you get up to the ledge section but you will want the one directly to the right of the first overlook. You can set your tent up on its own ledge, there is a big rock that acts as a fireplace, and the ground its pretty flat and big enough to fit 3 double tents.
There is no water access up top so make sure you bring enough or even a little more then you think you will need. If you want to make a fire you will have to search for fallen sticks/branches to use. Lucky, there are some dead trees in the area you can get a good supply from. Also be sure to bring a bear canister or rope & hang bag to store any food in. There is plenty of wildlife around who would love your meals and snacks.
Make sure you look up when first light and the sunrise is for the next morning. I'd suggest setting an alarm for 10-15 minutes before the first light time. Grab your camera, start a pot of coffee, and sit back because you're in for an incredible experience.
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Reviews
My son and I made this trip the day before the summer solstice. We arrived later in the afternoon and planned to camp. The hike is rigorous on the way up, more or less like climbing an 800 foot rock staircase. We passed a few day hikers on their way back down, and a group of overnight campers overtook us on the way up (I’m a slow climber with a pack on). Breathtaking views at the top, both sunset and sunrise. Camping was surprisingly busy with several groups already arrived and set up in the camp sites at the top. There are three at the top of the Giant Ledge trail, and we found a spot at the third site which is a short way further on the trail. Spectacular views in the morning from one of the many east facing ledges overlooking the Slide wilderness. On the way down we met many day hikers coming in, and the parking lot was full by 8:30.
5.0
Headed up around 5pm, pitched the hammock at one of the three sites behind the ledge and then enjoyed the views and took photos! I was the only one on the mountain that night, I ended up coming down to my truck to sleep around 10pm because forecasted t-storms were rolling in. Still found my way back, very obvious trail! Awesome time all around.
4.0
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Nearby
Hike Giant Ledge
Hike Mt. Wittenberg
Camp at Woodland Valley
Hike to Balsam Mountain in the Catskills
Swim at Peekamoose Blue Hole
Sugarloaf Mountain via Blue Trail
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