Looking for a continuous challenge, the satisfaction of checking mountains off a list, or just a good excuse to keep on heading for the hills? Then the Catskill 3500 Series hikes are just for you!

There are 35 peaks in the Catskills over 3500 feet, four of which need to be hiked in the winter months in order to earn a patch and recognition as a Catskill 3500 Club Member. This makes for a unique and challenging outdoor experience, but have no fear, Girl Gotta Hike is here to help you explore these snowy mountainsides!

The Deets!

Where:  Balsam Mountain, Big Indian Wilderness

Native Land Recognition: Haudenosaunee, Mohican and Lenape

When:  Saturday, March 16th, 2024

Distance:  5.5 miles

Rating:  Moderate to Challenging (in Winter conditions). Best for regular exercisers &/or those who can spend a long time on their feet.

Estimated Daily Hiking Time:  4-5 hours (including breaks)

Price:  $105.00

Inclusive of:  Expert guide support, welcoming and supportive community, and winter traction gear rental including micro spikes, snowshoes & trekking poles.

Not included:  guide gratuity, post-hike food/drink, transportation to/from Catskill region.

Public Transit + Ride Sharing: Got your own wheels? Carpooling is encouraged! GGH helps connect carless NYC-hikers with their neighboring hiker-drivers to get everyone upstate!

No car, no prob! A Partial Public Transit option from NYC’s Port Authority to the Catskill Region is also available for this trip.

Hike Description: Balsam Mountain is the 26th highest peak in the Catskills, and one of the four required winter peaks to earn a patch and recognition with the Catskill 3500 Club. Topping out at 3600 feet, this hike features some lovely stream crossings and a great view of many other 3500 footers to the north and east.

Day hiking checklist and more detailed travel information upon signup.

This hike will run with a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 8 in order to ensure the health and safety of all guides and participants. If the minimum has not been met 24 hours ahead of trip, we will reach out and reschedule, refund or make alternate arrangements. Liability Waiver and COVID-19 Policy must be completed ahead of hike in order to participate.

Cancellation Policy: If you cancel 14 days or more prior to the start of your trip, you will receive a full refund, less a 10% non-refundable administration fee. If you cancel between 24 hours and 14 days ahead, you will receive a 50% refund. Anything less than 24-hours is ineligible for refund, unless trip is canceled by Girl Gotta Hike, due to dangerous conditions or any other reason.