Giant Ledge and Panther Mountain Out and Back

This is a classic 'out and back' and therefore extremely simple to navigate, with only a lone spot for a possible misstep. The hike commences on the yellow-blazed Phoenicia East Branch Trail (Yellow) headed east. After a flat first tenth of a mile, the next 0.65 miles are very steep ascending approximately 550 feet rather quickly with sections of up to 45% grade.At the top of this section, bear left (north) onto the blue-blazed Giant Ledge-Panther-Fox Hollow Trail. What starts with a manageable grade quickly steepens until reaching the 1st ledge at around the 1.6 mile mark. Four more ledges follow in quick succession in the next 4/10's of a mile. While each ledge offers a similar view looking east, it is absolutely worth it to visit all 5. Once you've had your fill, continue north on Giant Ledge-Panther-Fox Hollow Trail, descending about 150 feet into a small valley before ascending the steepest section of the hike, a nice 700 foot gain in 8/10's of a mile. Near the top, the forest canopy changes to a wonderful singletrack through alpine forest. As you approach the summit be sure to climb a neat rock formation for a summit-like view and then onto a last ledge at the 3.5 mile mark.After a rewarding snack, retrace the route back to the parking lot, taking in each ledge once again on your descent. There are a few recreation side trails to unmarked ledges that are worth exploring as well. The only possible spot to lose direction is the right-hand turn onto Phoenicia East Branch Trail (Yellow). It's a memorable spot with signage so you should only get lost if daydreaming while taking in the forest surroundings.