Panther Peak
#18
About Panther Peak
Panther Peak stands at 4,442 feet (1,354 m) and is the eighteenth highest mountain in New York. Located in the remote Santanoni Range in the western High Peaks region, Panther is typically climbed along with Santanoni and Couchsachraga in a challenging day traverse. The mountain has no official marked trail; hikers follow herd paths that have developed through consistent use. While much of the summit is wooded, there are lookouts providing views, particularly to the south and west towards the more remote parts of the Adirondack Park. The approach to Panther is long and challenging, typically starting from the Bradley Pond Trailhead near Tahawus.
History
Panther Peak was named for the eastern cougar (mountain lion or panther) that once roamed the Adirondacks. The mountain is part of the remote Santanoni Range, which was once private land before being acquired by the state and incorporated into the Forest Preserve. The area around the Santanoni Range has a rich history of iron mining, and the nearby abandoned village of Tahawus (Adirondac) was once a mining community. Like many of the more remote High Peaks, Panther has never had an officially maintained trail to its summit, relying instead on unmarked herd paths. This remoteness helps preserve its wilderness character, though it also makes it one of the more challenging peaks to access.
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