Because only two summits in New York’s Catskill Mountains rise above 4,000 feet, peakbaggers instead focus on a lower but still challenging benchmark: 3,500 feet. The resulting list of 35 mountains forms the basis of the Catskill high peaks challenge and the Catskill 3500 Club. To earn membership in the club, hikers must climb all 35 qualifying peaks, many of which require navigating unmarked trails through dense forest and rugged terrain. In addition, the club requires winter ascents of Slide Mountain, Blackhead Mountain, Balsam Mountain, and Panther Mountain between December 21 and March 21. These extra requirements help ensure that members experience the Catskills in both summer and winter conditions, reflecting the club’s long-standing tradition of exploration and mountaineering in the region.

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