A self contained/self powered hydraulic catwalk is equipped with a slider positioned at the base of a lifting arm. As the lifting arm is elevated to deliver pipe to the drill rig floor, the slider moves the base of the lifting arm toward the drill rig keeping the distal end of the lifting arm in close proximity to the drill rig floor. Conversely, when the lifting arm is lowered, the slider retracts the base of the lifting arm onto the catwalk. By this method it is not necessary to reposition the catwalk after raising or lowering the lifting arm to maintain close proximity to the drill rig. Pipe can then be transported to the drill floor or removed efficiently and safely.