Can You Name New York’s Catskill Mountain Peaks?

Sometimes, the more you see something, the more it blends into the background. That includes some of the biggest (and most beautiful) landmarks in New York.

New Yorkers are never too far from an amazing hike. From the Catskills to the Adirondacks and even part of the Appalachian mountains, the Empire State is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts for a reason. But what do we really know about our local mountains?

Can You Name the Peaks of the Catskill Mountains in New York?

I almost felt personally attacked by a recent post from Columbia County's official tourism Facebook page. The photo (below), complete with the names of some of the most well-known peaks in the Catskill Mountains, exposed something I'd never really considered: I knew next to nothing about the mountain range that I see nearly every single day. 

The Most Noteworthy Peaks in the Catskill Mountains

While there are more than 30 peaks in the Catskill Mountains, some have more notoriety than others. From the "easy" Hunter Mountain to more difficult routes on Wittenberg and Sugarloaf mountains, there's something for every skill level. But which is the tallest?

Slide Mountain Is the Tallest Peak in the Catskill Mountain Range

Slide Mountain (which was conspicuously absent from the recent Facebook post) is the tallest mountain in the Catskills... it's also one of the most difficult to navigate. Luckily, there are some easier peaks to try for adventurers looking for a relaxed afternoon.

Read More: [Video] New York Hiker's Risky Air Rescue By DEC 

Visit Cairo Round Top in the Catskill Mountains

Located near the former Catskill Game Farm, Cairo Round Top is a more manageable mountain with an elevation just over 1,400 feet. Of course, the Catskills have also been the inspiration for prominent legends that have even made their way into official New York State business.

Rip Van Winkle in the Catskill Mountains

Rip Van Winkle famously explored the Catskill Mountains in Washington Irving's short story of the same name, only to fall asleep for two decades. Not only is the tale known as one of the first American short stories ever written, but one of the Hudson Valley's beloved bridges was named after the fictional hero as well.

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No matter the mountain range, there's always a great hike to take in the Hudson Valley. Take a look at some of the best below, and keep scrolling to plot your road trip on the New York "Ice Cream Trail" when your feet get too tired.