Primary Route
The Garden to Big Slide via the Brothers
Standard Route
Big Slide is defined by the Brothers: open ledges, repeated Great Range views, steep rock, and a summit that feels much bigger than its mileage suggests.
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Route map
The Garden to Big Slide via the Brothers
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Garden Route GPX
Planning use
Use the route line and GPX as planning aids. Carry a physical map and verify current official conditions before relying on any route.
Open the Interactive 46 High Peaks MapRoute History
Big Slide’s name comes from a real slide, not simply from the pointed look of the summit. In September 1856, a major landslide scarred the mountain, and Keene Valley resident Otis Estes connected the name to that event. Big Slide also has one of the older recorded High Peaks first ascents, with John Richards reaching the summit in 1812. That history fits the route well: open rock, exposed ledges, and the dramatic mountain faces around Johns Brook Valley still define the experience.
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Route Overview
The Garden to Big Slide via the Brothers
This standard route climbs from The Garden over the First, Second, and Third Brothers to Big Slide, then returns the same way over the Brothers. It is the simplest way to experience the route’s signature ledges and Great Range views.
Selected Route Access
Start at The Garden Trailhead and take the Brothers route from the trailhead fork. This is the most direct scenic Big Slide route and the primary route for this guide.
Selected Route Caution
The Brothers route has repeated ledges, open rock, steep footing, and weather exposure before Big Slide. It is shorter than many High Peaks routes but still requires care in wet, icy, windy, or low-visibility conditions.
Selected Route Guidance
Full guide collapsed for quick scanning. 12 sections available.