Catskill 3500 Club
Section: Northern Peaks | Central Peaks | Southern Peaks | Off Trail & Winter | Hiking Resources
Rocky Mountain 3508'
Signing in on Rocky
USGS Map: West Shokan
NY-NJ Trail Conference Map: #43/143
Order of Height: 35th at 3508'
Access: Via Bushwhack
Description: Rocky is thought by many to be the most difficult peak in the Catskills. While not as technically difficult as its neighbors, Balsam Cap and Friday, Rocky's difficulty comes from its inaccessibility. It is the longest distance from any road and requires the longest bushwhack.
In addition, it is known for the thickest spruce and balsam. While there are no open views, it is possible to see towards Slide when climbing from the north, or towards Balsam Cap when descending to the east. The most common access is from the Neversink River, although it can also be climbed from Lone Mountain to the west or Balsam Cap and the Rondout Valley to the east. Be sure to sign in at the summit canister (if you can find it).
Slide Mtn Wilderness Map (opens in new window)
Links for Rock Mountain
Slide Mountain Wilderness - NYSDEC
Photo credit: Aaron Schoenberg