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2021 CMC Past Events Calendar

JANUARY 2021
Sunday		Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
	27	28	29	30	31	1	2
	3	4	5	6	7	8	9
	10	11	12	13	14	15	16
	17	18	19	20	21	22	23
	24	25	26	27	28	29	30
	31	1	2	3	4	5	6

© calendarlabs.com

FEBRUARY 2021
Sunday		Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
	31	1	2	3	4	5	6
	7	8	9	10	11	12	13
	14	15	16	17	18	19	20
	21	22	23	24	25	26	27
	28	1	2	3	4	5	6

© calendarlabs.com

MARCH 2021
Sunday		Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
	28	1	2	3	4	5	6
	7	8	9	10	11	12	13
	14	15	16	17	18	19	20
	21	22	23	24	25	26	27
	28	29	30	31	1	2	3

© calendarlabs.com

APRIL 2021
Sunday		Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
	28	29	30	31	1	2	3
	4	5	6	7	8	9	10
	11	12	13	14	15	16	17
	18	19	20	21	22	23	24
	25	26	27	28	29	30	1

© calendarlabs.com

MAY 2021
Sunday		Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
	25	26	27	28	29	30	1 11 AM Annual Ephemeral Wildflower Hike in Kelly Hollow
	2	3 8 AM Dry Brook Ridge from Mill Brook Rd. to Margaretville	4	5	6	7	8
	9	10	11	12	13	14	15 10 AM Bramley Mountain Hike with Village of Delhi Bicentennial Committee
	16	17	18	19	20	21	22 10 AM Paddle on the West Branch Delaware River
	23	24	25	26	27	28	29 10 AM Trail Maintenance on Dry Brook Ridge and German Hollow
	30	31	1	2	3	4	5

© calendarlabs.com

JUNE 2021
Sunday		Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
	30	31	1	2	3	4	5
	6	7	8	9	10	11	12 11 AM Paddle the Pepacton
	13	14	15	16	17	18	19
	20	21	22	23	24	25	26
	27	28 8 AM Pepacton Range: Finger Lakes Trail, from Berry Brook Rd to Alder Lake	29	30	1	2	3

© calendarlabs.com

JULY 2021
Sunday		Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
	27	28	29	30	1	2	3
	4	5	6	7	8	9	10
	11	12	13	14	15	16	17
	18	19 8 AM Mongaup Loop with Willowemoc and Sand Pond Hundred Highest	20	21	22	23	24
	25	26	27	28	29	30	31

© calendarlabs.com

Andes Rail Trail Hiking Guide

Andes Rail Trail Hiking Guide

The ART begins at the restored Andes Train Station. The easy- moderate out and back hike totals four miles. It follows the old rail bed for about 0.8 miles until ending at private property. This scenic section overlooking the Tremperskill Valley is flat and wide with a few short detours provided for use in wet conditions. Along the way are several nice viewpoints, including one over a beaver pond dammed up on the creek by the resident beavers.From there the trail turns west (right) uphill onto the Bullet Hole Spur, which climbs the slopes of Hemlock Knoll. The trail is moderate in difficulty, with some short but fairly steep ups and downs.After a short distance, the trail turns north (right) and after about 0.1 miles makes a sharp switchback to begin climbing a steeper section. This section passes some nice rock formations and glacial erratics in a mixed hardwood forest.The height of land is reached in about 0.2 mile. The trail then begins a descent soon coming to a lovely fern glade. Just past the glade is a stone wall. The trail makes a sharp turn south before coming to a step-up and crossing the wall.Directly ahead lies a large spruce plantation. The trail continues straight ahead following a row through the trees before coming to nice views of the adjacent field and the hills beyond. At this point it bears slightly right and descends towards a beautiful grove of old hemlocks.After crossing the ruins of another stone wall the trail again swings right and loops through the hemlocks. The Bullet Hole Creek (on private land) can be heard and glimpsed to the left side of the trail.As you walk through the hemlock forest pay careful attention to the markers. You will come to a place where the trail turns north (right). Going straight enters private lands. The trail soon crosses a largely flattened stone wall before reclimbing the hill through the spruce trees and returning to the step-up stone wall crossing. From this point retrace your steps back to the parking lot.

© Catskill Mountain Club (Publish for non-commercial distribution with attribution. Otherwise, contact for permission.)

Pepacton Range: Cabot Mountain, Touch-Me-Not & Little Pond | Saturday, September 21, 2019 @ 9 AM

This hike over Cabot and Touch-Me-Not Mountains, with a loop to Little Pond is designed for those working on the Catskills All Trails Challenge.  It completes the following trails on map 144: Campground Trail, Little Pond Trail, and Touch-Me-Not Trail.Event Duration:  10.25 miles, 8 hoursLevel of Difficulty:  Moderate-DifficultLeader(s):   Marv FreedmanBring: Comfortable hiking boots, hiking poles (recommended), lunch, snacks, at least 2 liters of water/sports drink, sun screen, tick repellent.Registration required by September 18th. Register with leader. See contact info below.Group size is limited to 12, so register early.Dogs allowed: Yes, only with permission of event leaderRegistration and Questions about this event can be directed to: marvfreedman@gmail.com or (609) 731-3318Driving Directions:   We'll meet at the Alder Lake Parking Area (Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/AFHgNjp9YwxQUmbQ9). This is where the hike will end. We'll leave a car there and will drive to a primitive parking area on the East side of Beech Hill Rd, just North of the Finger Lakes trailhead (Google Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/eSTJwbRmVcTQ6PZ59, GPS: 42.050659, -74.779176) to start the hike.GPS coordinates for meeting site:   41.950982, -74.706931

Looking for Mountain Laurel on AHP | Postponed

Ashokan High Point is one of the best known mountains in the Catskills due to its prominent location next to the Ashokan Reservoir.  At 3081', it ranks in the Catskills Highest Hundred with an ascent of over 2000 feet.  But perhaps it's as well known for the mountain laurel stands that occupy its slopes. We'll be looking for them as we climb through the progress of their bloom from early to late.  Hikers should be prepared for a challenging climb during the last mile or so.Raindate:  Sunday, June 23rdEvent Duration:  9 miles,  8-9 hoursLevel of Difficulty:  DifficultLeader(s): Wendell GeorgeBring: good hiking shoes, something to drink, lunch and/or snacks, wear layered moisture wicking clothing that will keep you comfortable. Weather can change quickly in the mountains and higher elevations are cooler. Hiking poles are recommended.Registration required by June 20, 2019: Register by contacting the leader. See below.Registration is limited to 12, so register early.Dogs allowed:  No dogs for this hike.Registration and Questions about this event can be directed to: Wendell George at wendell@catskillmountainclub.org or 845-586-6273.  Be sure to provide a way to reach you the morning of the hike in case plans need to be changed.If you cannot attend, please notify the leader as soon as possible so we will not wait for you unnecessarily and so others may join us.Driving Directions:   The  Kanape Brook Trailhead is located on Watson Hollow Rd./Peekamoose Rd. off Rt. 28A in West Shokan. Turn west through the hamlet and then swing south for a total of 4.1 miles to the trailhead on the right.From the south, follow Sundown Rd./Peekamoose Rd. north from SR 55A just east of Grahamsville for 12.3 miles to trailhead parking on the left.

GPS:  41°56'06.6"N 74°19'45.2"W;   41.935177, -74.329216

East Wildcat Bushwhack | Postponed

We'll meet at the Slide Mt parking area on CR47, beginning on the Slide Mt trail, then continuing toward the intersection at the Curtis-Ormsbee monument. From near the intersection we'll begin our bushwhack, over East Wildcat's sub-summits to the wooded main summit. The Wildcats form a long ridge rising to 3340', a Catskills Hundred Highest peak.Event Duration:  6 miles, 7 hoursLevel of Difficulty:   Moderate-Difficult, BushwhackLeader(s):  Alan ViaBring: Good hiking shoes, lunch, snacks, bug spray, plenty to drink, map and compass (recommended). Dress in layered moisture wicking clothing for your comfort. Remember temps are cooler with increasing elevations and showers can arise without warning.Registration required by June 10th.  Register by contacting the leader. See below.Group size is limited to 8, so register early.Dogs allowed:  Yes, only with permission of event leaderAdditional Information: Rainy weather will postpone this event.Registration and Questions about this event can be directed to: hikeleaderAV@catskillmountainclub.orgNOTE: Please contact the leader if you need to cancel your plans.Driving Directions:  Meet at the Slide Mountain Parking Area on Oliverea-Frost Valley Rd. (CR 47). From SR 28 in Big Indian turn south onto Oliverea Rd. (becomes Frost Valley Rd.) and proceed about 10 miles to the Slide Mtn. P.A. (It will be past the hairpin turn at the Giant Ledge P.A.)From SR 55 west of Grahamsville turn north onto Claryville Rd. (CR19) and proceed 4.6 miles to Frost Valley Rd. in Claryville. Turn north and proceed 10.6 miles to the Slide Mtn. P.A. (It will be past the Biscuit Brook P.A.)

GPS coordinates:   42°00'29.1"N 74°25'41.8"W:   42.008080, -74.428263

Planning Calendar | June - September

June 2019
Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
						1
2	3	4	5	6PostponedEast Wildcat	7	89:30 AMTanbark Trail on Outdoors Day at the Catskills Visitor Center
9	10	11	12	13	14	158:20 AMTwin and Indian Head9:30Paddling on the West Branch11:00 AMCycling Along the Delaware
16  Father's Day	17	18	19	20	21  Summer Solstice	229:30 AMLooking for Mountain Laurel on AHP
23	24	25	26	27Blackhead Range	28	29
30

July 2019
Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
	1	2	3	4  Independence Day	5	6Alder Lake to Mill Brook Ridge and Balsam Lake Mountain
7	8	9	10	11	12	1310:00 AMViews from the Watershed
14	15	16	17Pepacton Range: Mary Smith & Middle Mountain	18	19	20
21	22	23	24Pepacton Range: Campbell Mountain to Pelnor Hollow	25	26	27Long Path - Peekamoose to Upper Cherrytown
28	29	30	31to be rescheduledLong Pond - Beaver Kill Ridge and Neversink Hardenburgh

August 2019
Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
				1	2	310:00 AMViews from the Watershed
4	5	6	7to be rescheduledMud Pond & Trout Pond	8	9	10
11	12	13	14	15	16	17
18	19	20	21Quick Lake	22	23	24
25	26	27	28	29	30	31

September 2019
Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
1	2  Labor Day	3	4	5	6	7
8	9	10	11	12	13	14
15	16	17	18	19	20	21Pepacton Range: Cabot Mountain, Touch-Me-Not & Little Pond
22	23  Autumnal Equinox	24	25	26	27	28
29	30

Barkaboom Mountain Bushwhack | Postponed

Barkaboom Mountain dominates the view from the Pepacton Reservoir.

At 3117', Barkaboom Mountain is the highest in the Pepacton Range. We will bushwhack this trailless peak from Alder Lake, crossing its three summits and hiking down to Big Pond Road. This is a moderate-difficult hike with about 1300' of ascent.

Details to follow.

Southern Plattekill and Round Top | CANCELLED

South Plattekill and Round Top are two of the Catskills 100 highest - just over 3000ft.  There is an old road that circles just below these two peaks (we may or may not actually summit either of them).  North Plattekill - the ski area - is also accessable from this road. we plan to spot a car and do a 5 or 6 mile circle. There may be some bushwhacking.Event Duration:  5 miles, 5-6 hoursLevel of Difficulty:  ModerateLeaders:  Jeff Ditchek and John ExterBring:  good hiking shoes, lunch, snacks, bug spray, plenty to drinkRegistration required by July 17.  Register by contacting the leader. See below.Group size is limited to 12, so register early.Dogs allowed:  NoQuestions about this event can be directed to:  Jeff Ditchek at  jiditchek@gmail.comDriving Directions:  Meet at the state forest parking area near the end of Harold Roberts Road in New Kingston.  We may spot a car at the end of Mountain Brook Road in Bovina, or bushwhack back to our starting place.From SR 28 in Margaretville, turn north onto Bridge St. At the light, turn west one block to Walnut St. and continue onto Margaretville Mountain Road, following it to its end. Turn north onto CR 6 towards New Kingston. In New Kingston turn northeast onto Thompson Hollow Road. Drive 3.7 miles to Harold Roberts Rd. and continue on Harold Roberts Rd. to the state DEC parking area on the right.From SR 28 in Andes, turn north onto CR 6 and follow the above directions. 

Hiking the Bluelines: Cascade Brook to Panther Mountain/Giant Ledge | Saturday, October 13, 9:00 AM

This is a series of nine hikes sponsored by the Catskill Mountain Club (CMC) and led by Team Danger Girl (TDG), a Catskill Mountain-based hiking group. Join members of TDG for a scientific and exploratory engagement with Catskill mountain streams. Dorcinda Knauth and Dany Davis will lead this series of off trail explorations. Dany is a geologist with 17 years of experience studying Catskill Mountain streams and will lead the scientific part of these explorations. Other environmental scientists may join some of the hikes. The theme of these hikes can be along the lines of the saying “the journey is the destination”. In other words, the purpose of these hikes is not to put peaks in a collection bag, so the summit is not the ultimate destination. Instead, the hikes will focus on landscape interpretation, exploring wild sections of popular mountains by following the paths of streams, collecting data for a regional Catskill streams study, and maybe getting to the top of a mountain on some of the hikes.There will be two categories of hikes: off trail adventurous explorations and trail-side family friendly engagements with streams. Both categories will include plenty of time sharing observations of the stream channel, ecosystem and riparian environment. We will stop often for discussions on the role of streams in the mountains, collecting some data on the stream’s shape and condition, as well as sharing lessons in landscape interpretation.The family friendly hikes will focus on hands-on engagement in studying a stream at specific stream locations, walking the stream channel corridor to observe changes (expect to get wet) and encourage hikers to appreciate the role of streams in the Catskill environment. If children join, it would be best for the children to be school age and capable of hiking a couple of miles. These hikes will be limited to 10 participants plus the hike leaders (maximum group size is 12-14 depending on the hike).The adventurous off trail explorations will be stream corridor bushwhacks up/down wild Catskill mountain terrain with some trail hiking. Science will be a central part of these hikes and there may be more stream data collection than in the family friendly hikes. The hikes are rated “Most Difficult” due to the variability of the headwater stream terrain, hiking in steep boulder streams, plenty of downed trees, and the ever present unknown one encounters when heading up/down a steep mountain drainage. Each of these hikes will have a mountain summit destination in mind; however, the science and exploration is the primary goal. Conditions may preclude getting to the top of the mountain. The hikes will be limited to 6-8 people plus the hike leaders (no more than 8-10 hikers total). Please note: your hike leaders will not have previously hiked some of these routes so obstacles to forward progress are unknown for some of these hikes – that is part of the adventure. Each hiker will need to consider themselves expert in off trail hiking in mountains. Footwear should be capable of hiking in and out of water (no sandals!).Cascade Brook to Panther Mountain/Giant Ledge. Rating: Difficult. Meeting Place: Giant Ledge PA. The hike will include walking down CR47 to Cascade Brook (~1 mile) to reach the stream route up Panther Mountain then walking along the left descending side of the stream to stay on NYS land for the first 0.5 miles. After that, the hike stays in the stream drainage until it disappears in the talus below Panther’s summit. The route up Panther will be along a SW-trending ridge to the summit view point. From there the return hike is via trail to Giant Ledge and back to the PA. Be prepared for biting insects, loose rocks and other stream scrambling hazards, thick forest, cliffy bits and Catskill yetis. Total Distance: ~7 miles.Event Duration:  7 miles, 9 hoursLevel of Difficulty:  DifficultLeader(s): Team Danger GirlBring: lunch, snacks, beverages (2-3 qts).; boots and clothes suitable for bush and stream whacking; optional shoes for walking in streams; headlamp (recommended)/flashlight, bug protection/repellant.Registration required by October 11.  Register by contacting the leader. See below.Group size is limited to 8, so register early.Dogs allowed:  No.Questions about this event can be directed to: Dany Davis at wddavis2@gmail.comDriving Directions: Meeting Place: Giant Ledge PA.From SR 28 in Big Indian, go south 7.3 miles on Oliverea/Frost Valley Rd./Rte. 47 to the parking area on the right.

Hiking the Bluelines: An Exploration of Woodland Creek’s Headwaters | Saturday, September 15, 8:00 AM

This is a series of nine hikes sponsored by the Catskill Mountain Club (CMC) and led by Team Danger Girl (TDG), a Catskill Mountain-based hiking group. Join members of TDG for a scientific and exploratory engagement with Catskill mountain streams. Dorcinda Knauth and Dany Davis will lead this series of off trail explorations. Dany is a geologist with 17 years of experience studying Catskill Mountain streams and will lead the scientific part of these explorations. Other environmental scientists may join some of the hikes. The theme of these hikes can be along the lines of the saying “the journey is the destination”. In other words, the purpose of these hikes is not to put peaks in a collection bag, so the summit is not the ultimate destination. Instead, the hikes will focus on landscape interpretation, exploring wild sections of popular mountains by following the paths of streams, collecting data for a regional Catskill streams study, and maybe getting to the top of a mountain on some of the hikes.There will be two categories of hikes: off trail adventurous explorations and trail-side family friendly engagements with streams. Both categories will include plenty of time sharing observations of the stream channel, ecosystem and riparian environment. We will stop often for discussions on the role of streams in the mountains, collecting some data on the stream’s shape and condition, as well as sharing lessons in landscape interpretation.The family friendly hikes will focus on hands-on engagement in studying a stream at specific stream locations, walking the stream channel corridor to observe changes (expect to get wet) and encourage hikers to appreciate the role of streams in the Catskill environment. If children join, it would be best for the children to be school age and capable of hiking a couple of miles. These hikes will be limited to 10 participants plus the hike leaders (maximum group size is 12-14 depending on the hike).The adventurous off trail explorations will be stream corridor bushwhacks up/down wild Catskill mountain terrain with some trail hiking. Science will be a central part of these hikes and there may be more stream data collection than in the family friendly hikes. The hikes are rated “Most Difficult” due to the variability of the headwater stream terrain, hiking in steep boulder streams, plenty of downed trees, and the ever present unknown one encounters when heading up/down a steep mountain drainage. Each of these hikes will have a mountain summit destination in mind; however, the science and exploration is the primary goal. Conditions may preclude getting to the top of the mountain. The hikes will be limited to 6-8 people plus the hike leaders (no more than 8-10 hikers total). Please note: your hike leaders will not have previously hiked some of these routes so obstacles to forward progress are unknown for some of these hikes – that is part of the adventure. Each hiker will need to consider themselves expert in off trail hiking in mountains. Footwear should be capable of hiking in and out of water (no sandals!).An exploration of Woodland Creek’s headwaters TBD. Rating: Most Difficult. Meeting Place: Woodland Valley Campground PA. The plan will be to bushwhack across the base of the Wittenberg along NYS land to the headwater reaches of Woodland Creek. From there, the assembled group will pick a route up any of the several branches of Woodland Creek, potentially ascending Slide, Cornell or Wittenberg; or just turning around and heading back to the PA. Be prepared for biting insects, stinging nettles, loose rocks and other stream scrambling hazards, thick forest, cliffy bits and Catskill yetis. Total Distance: ~7-12 miles.Event Duration:  7-12 miles, 11 hoursLevel of Difficulty:  Most Difficult, BushwhackLeader(s): Team Danger GirlBring: lunch, snacks, beverages (2-3 qts).; boots and clothes suitable for bush and stream whacking; optional shoes for walking in streams; headlamp (recommended)/flashlight, bug protection/repellant.Registration required by September 13.  Register by contacting the leader. See below.Group size is limited to 8, so register early.Dogs allowed:  No.Questions about this event can be directed to: Dany Davis at wddavis2@gmail.comDriving Directions: Meeting Place: Woodland Valley Campground PA.From SR 28 in Phoenicia, go west to Woodland Valley Rd and turn south. Cross the Esopus Creek bridge and turn right. Go 5 miles to the parking area. Be sure to pay the day use fee at the DEC office.

Cancelled: Hiking the Bluelines: Explore East Branch Neversink River Headwaters and Slide Mountain | Saturday, August 4, 8:00 AM

This is a series of nine hikes sponsored by the Catskill Mountain Club (CMC) and led by Team Danger Girl (TDG), a Catskill Mountain-based hiking group. Join members of TDG for a scientific and exploratory engagement with Catskill mountain streams. Dorcinda Knauth and Dany Davis will lead this series of off trail explorations. Dany is a geologist with 17 years of experience studying Catskill Mountain streams and will lead the scientific part of these explorations. Other environmental scientists may join some of the hikes. The theme of these hikes can be along the lines of the saying “the journey is the destination”. In other words, the purpose of these hikes is not to put peaks in a collection bag, so the summit is not the ultimate destination. Instead, the hikes will focus on landscape interpretation, exploring wild sections of popular mountains by following the paths of streams, collecting data for a regional Catskill streams study, and maybe getting to the top of a mountain on some of the hikes.There will be two categories of hikes: off trail adventurous explorations and trail-side family friendly engagements with streams. Both categories will include plenty of time sharing observations of the stream channel, ecosystem and riparian environment. We will stop often for discussions on the role of streams in the mountains, collecting some data on the stream’s shape and condition, as well as sharing lessons in landscape interpretation.The family friendly hikes will focus on hands-on engagement in studying a stream at specific stream locations, walking the stream channel corridor to observe changes (expect to get wet) and encourage hikers to appreciate the role of streams in the Catskill environment. If children join, it would be best for the children to be school age and capable of hiking a couple of miles. These hikes will be limited to 10 participants plus the hike leaders (maximum group size is 12-14 depending on the hike).The adventurous off trail explorations will be stream corridor bushwhacks up/down wild Catskill mountain terrain with some trail hiking. Science will be a central part of these hikes and there may be more stream data collection than in the family friendly hikes. The hikes are rated “Most Difficult” due to the variability of the headwater stream terrain, hiking in steep boulder streams, plenty of downed trees, and the ever present unknown one encounters when heading up/down a steep mountain drainage. Each of these hikes will have a mountain summit destination in mind; however, the science and exploration is the primary goal. Conditions may preclude getting to the top of the mountain. The hikes will be limited to 6-8 people plus the hike leaders (no more than 8-10 hikers total). Please note: your hike leaders will not have previously hiked some of these routes so obstacles to forward progress are unknown for some of these hikes – that is part of the adventure. Each hiker will need to consider themselves expert in off trail hiking in mountains. Footwear should be capable of hiking in and out of water (no sandals!).Explore East Branch Neversink River Headwaters and Slide Mountain. Rating: Difficult. Meeting place: Denning PA in the Town of Denning. The hike will start at the East Branch-Phoenicia trail to access the East Branch Neversink River valley. Depending on the ability and interest of the participants we will hike up the East Branch Neversink River or the Deer Shanty Brook toward Slide Mountain. The hike will focus on exploring the valley and stream environment and may include a bushwack summit of Slide Mountain if it seems feasible.  Total Distance is variable; assume a minimum 7 miles.Event Duration:   7+ miles, 11 hoursLevel of Difficulty:  DifficultLeader(s): Team Danger GirlBring: lunch, snacks, beverages (2 qts).; boots and clothes suitable for bush and stream whacking; optional shoes for walking in streams; bug protection/repellant.Registration required by August 2.  Register by contacting the leader. See below.Group size is limited to 10, so register early.Dogs allowed:  No.Questions about this event can be directed to: Dany Davis at wddavis2@gmail.comDriving Directions:  Meeting place:  Denning parking area.From SR 28 in Big Indian go south on CR 47/Oliverea-Frost Valley Rd. about 20 miles to Claryville. Turn east onto Denning Rd. and continue about 8 miles to the parking area.From SR 55 just west of Grahamsville, turn north 4 miles to Claryville.  Turn east onto Denning Rd. and continue about 8 miles to the parking area.

Hiking the Bluelines: Family Friendly Exploration of Kanape Brook | Saturday, June 23, 10:00 AM

This is a series of nine hikes sponsored by the Catskill Mountain Club (CMC) and led by Team Danger Girl (TDG), a Catskill Mountain-based hiking group. Join members of TDG for a scientific and exploratory engagement with Catskill mountain streams. Dorcinda Knauth and Dany Davis will lead this series of off trail explorations. Dany is a geologist with 17 years of experience studying Catskill Mountain streams and will lead the scientific part of these explorations. Other environmental scientists may join some of the hikes. The theme of these hikes can be along the lines of the saying “the journey is the destination”. In other words, the purpose of these hikes is not to put peaks in a collection bag, so the summit is not the ultimate destination. Instead, the hikes will focus on landscape interpretation, exploring wild sections of popular mountains by following the paths of streams, collecting data for a regional Catskill streams study, and maybe getting to the top of a mountain on some of the hikes.There will be two categories of hikes: off trail adventurous explorations and trail-side family friendly engagements with streams. Both categories will include plenty of time sharing observations of the stream channel, ecosystem and riparian environment. We will stop often for discussions on the role of streams in the mountains, collecting some data on the stream’s shape and condition, as well as sharing lessons in landscape interpretation.The family friendly hikes will focus on hands-on engagement in studying a stream at specific stream locations, walking the stream channel corridor to observe changes (expect to get wet) and encourage hikers to appreciate the role of streams in the Catskill environment. If children join, it would be best for the children to be school age and capable of hiking a couple of miles. These hikes will be limited to 10 participants plus the hike leaders (maximum group size is 12-14 depending on the hike).The adventurous off trail explorations will be stream corridor bushwhacks up/down wild Catskill mountain terrain with some trail hiking. Science will be a central part of these hikes and there may be more stream data collection than in the family friendly hikes. The hikes are rated “Most Difficult” due to the variability of the headwater stream terrain, hiking in steep boulder streams, plenty of downed trees, and the ever present unknown one encounters when heading up/down a steep mountain drainage. Each of these hikes will have a mountain summit destination in mind; however, the science and exploration is the primary goal. Conditions may preclude getting to the top of the mountain. The hikes will be limited to 6-8 people plus the hike leaders (no more than 8-10 hikers total). Please note: your hike leaders will not have previously hiked some of these routes so obstacles to forward progress are unknown for some of these hikes – that is part of the adventure. Each hiker will need to consider themselves expert in off trail hiking in mountains. Footwear should be capable of hiking in and out of water (no sandals!).Family friendly exploration of Kanape Brook with a possible visit to the summit of Ashokan High Point. Rating: Moderate. Meeting Place: Kanape Brook PA in the Town of Olive. The hike will include stopping at specific locations along the brook to observe channel and riparian forest conditions. Data collection will be part of the activities for a local study, and participants will be shown techniques for participation. Be prepared for biting insects, stinging nettles, loose rocks and other stream scrambling hazards, and very excitable stream scientists! Total Distance: ~3 miles for the stream (out and back) or 7-8 if including Ashokan High Point.Event Duration:   3-8 miles tbd, 6 hoursLevel of Difficulty:  ModerateLeader(s): Team Danger GirlBring: lunch, snacks, beverages (2 qts).; boots and clothes suitable for bush and stream whacking; optional shoes for walking in streams; bug protection/repellant.Registration required by June 21.  Register by contacting the leader. See below.Group size is limited to 10, so register early.Dogs allowed:  No.Questions about this event can be directed to: Dany Davis at wddavis2@gmail.comDriving Directions:  Meeting Place: Kanape Brook PAFrom SR 28 in Boiceville, go south 5.6 miles on Rte. 28A to West Shokan. Turn west onto Watson Hollow Rd./ Rte. 42. Go 4 miles to parking area on the right.

Hiking the Bluelines: West Kill stream to Hunter Mountain | Saturday, July 7, 9:00 AM

This is a series of nine hikes sponsored by the Catskill Mountain Club (CMC) and led by Team Danger Girl (TDG), a Catskill Mountain-based hiking group. Join members of TDG for a scientific and exploratory engagement with Catskill mountain streams. Dorcinda Knauth and Dany Davis will lead this series of off trail explorations. Dany is a geologist with 17 years of experience studying Catskill Mountain streams and will lead the scientific part of these explorations. Other environmental scientists may join some of the hikes. The theme of these hikes can be along the lines of the saying “the journey is the destination”. In other words, the purpose of these hikes is not to put peaks in a collection bag, so the summit is not the ultimate destination. Instead, the hikes will focus on landscape interpretation, exploring wild sections of popular mountains by following the paths of streams, collecting data for a regional Catskill streams study, and maybe getting to the top of a mountain on some of the hikes.There will be two categories of hikes: off trail adventurous explorations and trail-side family friendly engagements with streams. Both categories will include plenty of time sharing observations of the stream channel, ecosystem and riparian environment. We will stop often for discussions on the role of streams in the mountains, collecting some data on the stream’s shape and condition, as well as sharing lessons in landscape interpretation.The family friendly hikes will focus on hands-on engagement in studying a stream at specific stream locations, walking the stream channel corridor to observe changes (expect to get wet) and encourage hikers to appreciate the role of streams in the Catskill environment. If children join, it would be best for the children to be school age and capable of hiking a couple of miles. These hikes will be limited to 10 participants plus the hike leaders (maximum group size is 12-14 depending on the hike).The adventurous off trail explorations will be stream corridor bushwhacks up/down wild Catskill mountain terrain with some trail hiking. Science will be a central part of these hikes and there may be more stream data collection than in the family friendly hikes. The hikes are rated “Most Difficult” due to the variability of the headwater stream terrain, hiking in steep boulder streams, plenty of downed trees, and the ever present unknown one encounters when heading up/down a steep mountain drainage. Each of these hikes will have a mountain summit destination in mind; however, the science and exploration is the primary goal. Conditions may preclude getting to the top of the mountain. The hikes will be limited to 6-8 people plus the hike leaders (no more than 8-10 hikers total). Please note: your hike leaders will not have previously hiked some of these routes so obstacles to forward progress are unknown for some of these hikes – that is part of the adventure. Each hiker will need to consider themselves expert in off trail hiking in mountains. Footwear should be capable of hiking in and out of water (no sandals!).West Kill stream to Hunter Mountain. Most Difficult. Meeting place: West Kill Trailhead. This hike is likely to be the most challenging and should only be attempted by those capable of hiking in the Catskill's most rugged terrain. This will involve hiking the West Kill stream corridor up the drainage toward the summit of Hunter Mountain.  The approach to Hunter's summit will involve very steep terrain in thick balsam forest (what fun!). If Hunter is summited, the hike may take a trail back down or, if adventure prevails take another stream back down. Be prepared for biting insects, loose rocks and other stream scrambling hazards, thick forest, cliffy bits and Catskill yetis. Total Distance: 7-10 miles depending upon the route.Event Duration:  7-10 miles, 11 hoursLevel of Difficulty:  Most DifficultLeader(s): Team Danger GirlBring: lunch, snacks, beverages (2 qts).; boots and clothes suitable for bush and stream whacking; optional shoes for walking in streams; bug protection/repellant.Registration required by July 5.  Register by contacting the leader. See below.Group size is limited to 10, so register early.Dogs allowed:  No.Questions about this event can be directed to: Dany Davis at wddavis2@gmail.comDriving Directions:  West Kill Trailhead at the end of Spruceton Rd. From CR 42 in West Kill turn east into the Spruceton Valley. CR 42 intersects SR 28 in Shandaken and SR 23A in Lexington.

Hiking the Bluelines: Family Friendly Exploration Hike to Rochester Hollow Creek | Cancelled

This is a series of nine hikes sponsored by the Catskill Mountain Club (CMC) and led by Team Danger Girl (TDG), a Catskill Mountain-based hiking group. Join members of TDG for a scientific and exploratory engagement with Catskill mountain streams. Dorcinda Knauth and Dany Davis will lead this series of off trail explorations. Dany is a geologist with 17 years of experience studying Catskill Mountain streams and will lead the scientific part of these explorations. Other environmental scientists may join some of the hikes. The theme of these hikes can be along the lines of the saying “the journey is the destination”. In other words, the purpose of these hikes is not to put peaks in a collection bag, so the summit is not the ultimate destination. Instead, the hikes will focus on landscape interpretation, exploring wild sections of popular mountains by following the paths of streams, collecting data for a regional Catskill streams study, and maybe getting to the top of a mountain on some of the hikes.There will be two categories of hikes: off trail adventurous explorations and trail-side family friendly engagements with streams. Both categories will include plenty of time sharing observations of the stream channel, ecosystem and riparian environment. We will stop often for discussions on the role of streams in the mountains, collecting some data on the stream’s shape and condition, as well as sharing lessons in landscape interpretation.The family friendly hikes will focus on hands-on engagement in studying a stream at specific stream locations, walking the stream channel corridor to observe changes (expect to get wet) and encourage hikers to appreciate the role of streams in the Catskill environment. If children join, it would be best for the children to be school age and capable of hiking a couple of miles. These hikes will be limited to 10 participants plus the hike leaders (maximum group size is 12-14 depending on the hike).The adventurous off trail explorations will be stream corridor bushwhacks up/down wild Catskill mountain terrain with some trail hiking. Science will be a central part of these hikes and there may be more stream data collection than in the family friendly hikes. The hikes are rated “Most Difficult” due to the variability of the headwater stream terrain, hiking in steep boulder streams, plenty of downed trees, and the ever present unknown one encounters when heading up/down a steep mountain drainage. Each of these hikes will have a mountain summit destination in mind; however, the science and exploration is the primary goal. Conditions may preclude getting to the top of the mountain. The hikes will be limited to 6-8 people plus the hike leaders (no more than 8-10 hikers total). Please note: your hike leaders will not have previously hiked some of these routes so obstacles to forward progress are unknown for some of these hikes – that is part of the adventure. Each hiker will need to consider themselves expert in off trail hiking in mountains. Footwear should be capable of hiking in and out of water (no sandals!).Explore Rochester Hollow Creek. Rating: Moderate. Meeting place: Rochester Hollow PA in the Town of Shandaken. This will involve meeting at the Rochester Hollow parking area and taking the trail up the valley for approximately 1.5 miles and then returning back to the parking area by way of the stream.  The hike will include stopping at specific locations to observe stream channel and riparian forest conditions.  Data collection will be part of the activities for a local study, and participants will be shown techniques for participation. Be prepared for biting insects, stinging nettles, Loose rocks and other stream scrambling hazards, and very excitable stream scientists!  Total Distance: ~ 3 miles.Event Duration:   3 miles, 5 hoursLevel of Difficulty:  ModerateLeader(s): Team Danger GirlBring: lunch, snacks, beverages (2 qts).; boots and clothes suitable for bush and stream whacking; optional shoes for walking in streams; bug protection/repellant.Registration required by July 19.  Register by contacting the leader. See below.Group size is limited to 10, so register early.Dogs allowed:  No.Questions about this event can be directed to: Dany Davis at wddavis2@gmail.comDriving Directions:  From SR 28 in Big Indian go west about 1 mile to Matyas Rd. Turn north to the parking area.

Hiking the Bluelines: Biscuit Brook to Fir Mountain | Saturday, June 2, 8 AM

This is a series of nine hikes sponsored by the Catskill Mountain Club (CMC) and led by Team Danger Girl (TDG), a Catskill Mountain-based hiking group. Join members of TDG for a scientific and exploratory engagement with Catskill mountain streams. Dorcinda Knauth and Dany Davis will lead this series of off trail explorations. Dany is a geologist with 17 years of experience studying Catskill Mountain streams and will lead the scientific part of these explorations. Other environmental scientists may join some of the hikes. The theme of these hikes can be along the lines of the saying “the journey is the destination”. In other words, the purpose of these hikes is not to put peaks in a collection bag, so the summit is not the ultimate destination. Instead, the hikes will focus on landscape interpretation, exploring wild sections of popular mountains by following the paths of streams, collecting data for a regional Catskill streams study, and maybe getting to the top of a mountain on some of the hikes.There will be two categories of hikes: off trail adventurous explorations and trail-side family friendly engagements with streams. Both categories will include plenty of time sharing observations of the stream channel, ecosystem and riparian environment. We will stop often for discussions on the role of streams in the mountains, collecting some data on the stream’s shape and condition, as well as sharing lessons in landscape interpretation.The family friendly hikes will focus on hands-on engagement in studying a stream at specific stream locations, walking the stream channel corridor to observe changes (expect to get wet) and encourage hikers to appreciate the role of streams in the Catskill environment. If children join, it would be best for the children to be school age and capable of hiking a couple of miles. These hikes will be limited to 10 participants plus the hike leaders (maximum group size is 12-14 depending on the hike).The adventurous off trail explorations will be stream corridor bushwhacks up/down wild Catskill mountain terrain with some trail hiking. Science will be a central part of these hikes and there may be more stream data collection than in the family friendly hikes. The hikes are rated “Most Difficult” due to the variability of the headwater stream terrain, hiking in steep boulder streams, plenty of downed trees, and the ever present unknown one encounters when heading up/down a steep mountain drainage. Each of these hikes will have a mountain summit destination in mind; however, the science and exploration is the primary goal. Conditions may preclude getting to the top of the mountain. The hikes will be limited to 6-8 people plus the hike leaders (no more than 8-10 hikers total). Please note: your hike leaders will not have previously hiked some of these routes so obstacles to forward progress are unknown for some of these hikes – that is part of the adventure. Each hiker will need to consider themselves expert in off trail hiking in mountains. Footwear should be capable of hiking in and out of water (no sandals!).Biscuit Brook to Fir Mountain. Rating: Difficult. Meeting place: Biscuit Brook trailhead. This will involve hiking the Biscuit Brook trail to the NYS land/Frost Valley land boundary and then following the stream corridor to the col between Big Indian and Fir Mountains. If Fir Mountain is summited the return trip will be by herdpath and trail back to the Biscuit Brook trailhead, or if adventure prevails the unnamed stream between Fir and Spruce Mountains. There will be ongoing research in this watershed by Colorado State University so we may get some fresh insights into Catskill stream geomorphology! Be prepared for biting insects, stinging nettles, loose boulders and other stream scrambling hazards, thick forest, cliffy bits and Catskill yetis. Total Distance: 8-10 miles depending upon the route.Event Duration:  8-10 miles, hoursLevel of Difficulty:  Most Difficult, BushwhackLeader(s): Team Danger GirlBring: lunch, snacks, beverages (2-3 qts).; boots and clothes suitable for bush and stream whacking; optional shoes for walking in streams; headlamp (recommended)/flashlight, bug protection/repellant.Registration required by May 31.  Register by contacting the leader. See below.Group size is limited to 8, so register early. NOTE: This hike is full.Dogs allowed:  No.Questions about this event can be directed to: Dany Davis at wddavis2@gmail.comDriving Directions:  Meet at the Biscuit Brook Trailhead.From the North: Turn south from SR 28 in Big Indian onto Oliverea-Frost Valley Rd./ Rte. 47. Go 12.6 miles to the trailhead parking on the left.From the South: From SR 55 turn north on Claryville Rd. to Claryville. Continue north on Rte. 157 to Rte. 47/ Frost Valley Rd., and then go 6.7 miles to the trailhead on the right.

Hiking the Bluelines: Hunter Brook or West Kill stream to Hunter Mountain | Saturday, May 12, 8:00 AM

This is a series of nine hikes sponsored by the Catskill Mountain Club (CMC) and led by Team Danger Girl (TDG), a Catskill Mountain-based hiking group. Join members of TDG for a scientific and exploratory engagement with Catskill mountain streams. Dorcinda Knauth and Dany Davis will lead this series of off trail explorations. Dany is a geologist with 17 years of experience studying Catskill Mountain streams and will lead the scientific part of these explorations. Other environmental scientists may join some of the hikes. The theme of these hikes can be along the lines of the saying “the journey is the destination”. In other words, the purpose of these hikes is not to put peaks in a collection bag, so the summit is not the ultimate destination. Instead, the hikes will focus on landscape interpretation, exploring wild sections of popular mountains by following the paths of streams, collecting data for a regional Catskill streams study, and maybe getting to the top of a mountain on some of the hikes.There will be two categories of hikes: off trail adventurous explorations and trail-side family friendly engagements with streams. Both categories will include plenty of time sharing observations of the stream channel, ecosystem and riparian environment. We will stop often for discussions on the role of streams in the mountains, collecting some data on the stream’s shape and condition, as well as sharing lessons in landscape interpretation.The family friendly hikes will focus on hands-on engagement in studying a stream at specific stream locations, walking the stream channel corridor to observe changes (expect to get wet) and encourage hikers to appreciate the role of streams in the Catskill environment. If children join, it would be best for the children to be school age and capable of hiking a couple of miles. These hikes will be limited to 10 participants plus the hike leaders (maximum group size is 12-14 depending on the hike).The adventurous off trail explorations will be stream corridor bushwhacks up/down wild Catskill mountain terrain with some trail hiking. Science will be a central part of these hikes and there may be more stream data collection than in the family friendly hikes. The hikes are rated “Most Difficult” due to the variability of the headwater stream terrain, hiking in steep boulder streams, plenty of downed trees, and the ever present unknown one encounters when heading up/down a steep mountain drainage. Each of these hikes will have a mountain summit destination in mind; however, the science and exploration is the primary goal. Conditions may preclude getting to the top of the mountain. The hikes will be limited to 6-8 people plus the hike leaders (no more than 8-10 hikers total). Please note: your hike leaders will not have previously hiked some of these routes so obstacles to forward progress are unknown for some of these hikes – that is part of the adventure. Each hiker will need to consider themselves expert in off trail hiking in mountains. Footwear should be capable of hiking in and out of water (no sandals!).Hunter Brook or West Kill stream to Hunter Mountain. Most Difficult. Meeting place: Spruceton Trailhead. This hike is likely to be the most challenging and should only be attempted by those capable of hiking in the Catskill’s most rugged terrain. This will involve hiking the Hunter Brook or West Kill stream corridor up the drainage toward the summit of Hunter Mountain. The approach to Hunter’s summit will involve very steep terrain in thick balsam forest (what fun!). If Hunter is summited, the hike may take a trail back down or, if adventure prevails take another stream back down. Be prepared for biting insects, loose rocks and other stream scrambling hazards, thick forest, cliffy bits and Catskill yetis. Total Distance: 7-10 miles depending upon the route.Event Duration:  7-10 miles, hoursLevel of Difficulty:  Most Difficult, BushwhackLeader(s): Team Danger GirlBring: lunch, snacks, beverages (2-3 qts).; boots and clothes suitable for bush and stream whacking; optional shoes for walking in streams; headlamp (recommended)/flashlight, bug protection/repellant.Registration required by May 10.  Register by contacting the leader. See below.Group size is limited to 8, so register early.  NOTE: This hike is full.Dogs allowed:  No.Questions about this event can be directed to: Dany Davis at wddavis2@gmail.comDriving Directions: Meet at the Spruceton Trail trailhead. From CR 47 in West Kill, turn east onto Spruceton Rd. and continue 6.7 miles to the trailhead.

Hiking the Bluelines: Bear Hole Brook to Van Wyck Mountain | Saturday, May 5, 8:00 AM

This is a series of nine hikes sponsored by the Catskill Mountain Club (CMC) and led by Team Danger Girl (TDG), a Catskill Mountain-based hiking group. Join members of TDG for a scientific and exploratory engagement with Catskill mountain streams. Dorcinda Knauth and Dany Davis will lead this series of off trail explorations. Dany is a geologist with 17 years of experience studying Catskill Mountain streams and will lead the scientific part of these explorations. Other environmental scientists may join some of the hikes. The theme of these hikes can be along the lines of the saying “the journey is the destination”. In other words, the purpose of these hikes is not to put peaks in a collection bag, so the summit is not the ultimate destination. Instead, the hikes will focus on landscape interpretation, exploring wild sections of popular mountains by following the paths of streams, collecting data for a regional Catskill streams study, and maybe getting to the top of a mountain on some of the hikes.There will be two categories of hikes: off trail adventurous explorations and trail-side family friendly engagements with streams. Both categories will include plenty of time sharing observations of the stream channel, ecosystem and riparian environment. We will stop often for discussions on the role of streams in the mountains, collecting some data on the stream’s shape and condition, as well as sharing lessons in landscape interpretation.The family friendly hikes will focus on hands-on engagement in studying a stream at specific stream locations, walking the stream channel corridor to observe changes (expect to get wet) and encourage hikers to appreciate the role of streams in the Catskill environment. If children join, it would be best for the children to be school age and capable of hiking a couple of miles. These hikes will be limited to 10 participants plus the hike leaders (maximum group size is 12-14 depending on the hike).The adventurous off trail explorations will be stream corridor bushwhacks up/down wild Catskill mountain terrain with some trail hiking. Science will be a central part of these hikes and there may be more stream data collection than in the family friendly hikes. The hikes are rated “Most Difficult” due to the variability of the headwater stream terrain, hiking in steep boulder streams, plenty of downed trees, and the ever present unknown one encounters when heading up/down a steep mountain drainage. Each of these hikes will have a mountain summit destination in mind; however, the science and exploration is the primary goal. Conditions may preclude getting to the top of the mountain. The hikes will be limited to 6-8 people plus the hike leaders (no more than 8-10 hikers total). Please note: your hike leaders will not have previously hiked some of these routes so obstacles to forward progress are unknown for some of these hikes – that is part of the adventure. Each hiker will need to consider themselves expert in off trail hiking in mountains. Footwear should be capable of hiking in and out of water (no sandals!).Bear Hole Brook to Van Wyck Mountain. Rating: Most Difficult. Meeting Place: Bear Hole Brook PA on Ulster County Route 42 (Peekamoose Road). The inaugural Bluelines hike will include stream-whacking up Bear Hole Brook to access the Catskill Divide between Van Wyck and Table Mountains. The return trip will be via the Van Wyck ridge. Be prepared for biting insects, loose rocks and other stream scrambling hazards, thick forest, cliffy bits and Catskill yetis. Total Distance: 6-8 miles depending upon the route.Event Duration:  6-8 miles, 10 hoursLevel of Difficulty: Most Difficult, BushwhackLeader(s): Team Danger GirlBring: lunch, snacks, beverages (2-3 qts).; boots and clothes suitable for bush and stream whacking; optional shoes for walking in streams; headlamp (recommended)/flashlight, bug protection/repellant.Registration required by May 3.  Register by contacting the leader. See below.Group size is limited to 8, so register early.  NOTE: This hike is full.Dogs allowed:  No.Questions about this event can be directed to:  Dany Davis at wddavis2@gmail.comDriving Directions: Meet at Bear Hole Brook PA on Ulster County Route 42 (Peekamoose Road). From the North: Take Rte. 28A to West Shokan turn west onto Watson Hollow Rd. (CR 42). 10 miles to the trailhead.From the South: Turn north from SR 55/55A towards Sundown. Continue on Peekamoose Rd. 3 miles to the trailhead. 

Catskills: Places to Go for Hiking, Camping, Cycling, Kayaking, XC Skiing, Fishing & more

The Catskill Mountain Region is Over 6,000 Square Miles....Where Should You Begin?Are you new to the Catskills or not familiar with the location of our public lands and recreational resources? Looking for some good suggestions on where to go hiking, camping, boating, cycling, fishing, or cross-country skiing in the Catskills? In a region larger than the state of Connecticut, here are some suggestions to get you started.NOTE: The NYSDEC has developed several accessible recreation facilities in the Catskills for individuals with disabilities. For a complete list go to the DEC's Accessible Recreation Destinations page and search their lists for Delaware, Greene, Sullivan and Ulster Counties. For more information about NY state parks and other facilities visit Accessible Outdoor Recreation Destinations in and around the Catskills.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Choose a vicinity below to view some of the many outdoor pursuits in the Catskill Mountain region.In the ParkNORTHERN  SOUTHERN  WESTERN

Outside the ParkNORTHEAST          NORTHWEST         SOUTHEAST         SOUTHWEST------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Looking for a 2-3 night Backpacking Idea?Read an account of a wonderful camping trip taken starting at Little Pond.Want to see some cool old ruins?Read about visiting the remains of a number of great old structures.  Be sure to be respectful of private property - do not venture onto private land without permission.

NORTHERN Catskill Park

Strenuous Hikes:

• Blackhead Range - Traverse the three high peaks that define the skyline of the northern Catskill Park; Thomas Cole (elev. 3,940'), Blackhead (elev. 3,940'), and Black Dome (elev. 3,980'). Mileage approx. 5-6 miles one-way depending on route. Scenic view points. NY/NJ TC Catskills Trail Map #41.

• Devil’s Path - Doing even a small chunk of the 23-mile Devil’s Path can be considered an extremely strenuous hike, however the rewards are numerous and unforgettable. Indian Head, Twin, Sugarloaf, and Twin are signature Catskill high peaks, and Plateau, Southwest Hunter, and Westkill Mountains will give you a better workout than you could ever pay for at a gym. Once you make it up to the spruce-fir summits, all of your troubles will disappear in the breeze. Amazing vistas from bluestone ledges will turn you into a romantic such as the likes of Thomas Cole and Washington Irving.

Moderate Hikes:

• Dibble’s Quarry and Pecoy Notch - A moderate hike of 1.9 miles one-way will take you through classic Catskills northern hardwood forest and typical rock outcrops, then to an abandoned bluestone quarry with modern-day charm, on to a tumbling stream through a hemlock ravine, up to a high-mountain beaver meadow, and finally to the rugged notch between Twin and Sugarloaf Mountains (elevation gain 1,000’).. More ambitious hikers can ascend the Devil’s Path to the summits on either side of the notch. Scenic views at Dibble’s Quarry and summits of Twin and Sugarloaf Mountains. NY/NJ TC Catskills Trail Map #41.

• Huckleberry Point - Hike from the magical Platte Clove up onto the lower flanks of Kaaterskill High Peak and then out to a rocky promontory with fantastic views of the Hudson Valley, Platte Clove, and Indian Head Range. 2.5 miles one-way; gradual ascents. NY/NJ TC Catskills Trail Map #41

Easy Hikes:

• Catskill Mountain House Site and Artists Rock - Accessed via North-South Lake State Campground, this is arguably the foremost classic scenic view in the Catskill Park (along with the view of North-South Lake and South Mountain from North Mountain). The Catskill Mountain House Site is a short stroll from the parking areas at the campground and boasts an incredible panorama of the Hudson Valley. Artists Rock (0.5-mile from campground), Boulder Rock (0.75-mile from campground), and Sunset Rock (1.3-miles from campground) also have great views. This legendary area was America's first great tourist destination and was visited by president's, artists and the rich and powerful for over a century. NY/NJ TC Catskills Trail Map #40 and #41.

• Diamond Notch Falls - At the end of Spruceton Road park in the area on the right. Hike up the Diamond Notch Trail along the West Kill for .7 miles to the falls. This is a great place for a picnic or to just explore and sit around.

Primitive Camping:

• Elm Ridge Lean-to in the Elm Ridge Wild Forest

• Devil's Acre Lean-to in the Hunter-West Kill Wilderness

Cross-Country Skiing:

• Mountain Trails Cross Country Ski Center

Ice Skating

• Windham Adventure Park

Flatwater Canoeing/Kayaking:

• Colgate Lake - Enjoy scenic views of the Blackhead Range while paddling lazily on this pretty out-of-the-way lake. This lake supports trout. NY/NJ TC Catskills Trail Map #41.

River Canoeing/Kayaking:

• Schoharie Creek from Lexington to Prattsville. Nine miles of flatwater and Class I-III rapids flowing through a beautiful valley. See if you can spot a bald eagle looking for trout.

Trout Fishing:

• Schoharie Creek
• West Kill

Warm-water Fishing:

• Lake Rip Van Winkle in Tannersville

• Colgate Lake in Greene County

• Note: Colgate Lake is an Accessible Recreation Destination site. See link above.

Mountain Biking:

• Hunter Mountain Ski Area
• Ski Windham
• Elm Ridge Wild Forest

Cycling:

• Moderate: The ride in Spruceton Valley from CR 42 to the head of the valley is one of the most beautiful and pleasant rides in the Catskills. Light traffic and nearly flat terrain with mountain ranges on both the north and south sides of the valley make for a wonderful outing.15 miles, round trip.

• Feeling fiesty? Ride over Deep Notch from the hamlet of Shandaken for a full day's outing.

• Bonus: At the end of the road, leave your bike and hike .7 miles along the West Kill to Diamond Notch Falls.

• Strenuous: CR 23C in the Towns of Jewett and Hunter offers spectacular scenery and rolling terrain on a quiet country road. 25 miles round trip. Have a meal and a brew in Tannersville at the end of your trip.

SOUTHERN Catskill Park

Strenuous Hikes:

• Table and Peekamoose Mountains - Start in from the end of Denning Road, for a hike of 3.9 miles one-way to the summit of Table Mountain (elevation gain 1,700'), and another 0.85-mile brings you to the summit of Peekamoose. Alternate approach is 3.9 miles one-way to summit of Peekamoose Mountain, from Peekamoose Road (Ulster Co. Rt. 42)., (elevation gain 2,640'). Enjoy the magic kingdom of the spruce-fir forest that crowns our highest Catskill peaks.

• Wittenberg Mountain - This is a tough hike with an enormous pay-off. Starting at the Woodland Valley Parking Area ( pay fee from mid-May to mid-October), hike up the Wittenberg-Cornell-Slide Trail 3.9 miles to the summit. The spectacular views over the Ashokan Reservoir and to the Devil's Path Range are to die for. The summit elevaton is 3780' with a climb of 2430'.

Moderate Hikes:

• Giant Ledge - Arguably the most "bang for the buck" in the Catskills, a short hike with some huffing and puffing is rewarded by breathtaking views on a series of 250' high open ledges. To the east are views of the nearby Burroughs Range and to the west views of the high peaks of the Big Indian Wilderness. 3 miles out and back.

• Bonus: Go in late May to early June for the pinxsters (azaleas) growing out of the ledges. Find bunchberries, yellow clintonia and more along the trail.

Easy Hikes:

• Red Hill Fire Tower - A 1.35-mile hike through a pleasant forest, uphill but not too steep, leads you to the Red Hill Fire Tower. Thanks to volunteer efforts, the tower is now completely restored and open to the public. Enjoy 360-degree views of the mountains. The old ranger cabin, open on most weekends in summer, now has old photographs and other interpretive material about the days when the tower was used by the State for spotting forest fires.
• Ashokan Reservoir Promenade - Hike on a paved trail along the south shore of the reservoir over a dam and on a berm. The views to the Devil's Path Trail on the east end of the hike and to the Burroughs Range west of the reservoir are stunning. Watch the bald eagles fishing and soaring. Round trip between the parking areas on SR 28A is about 5½ miles.Accessible route.
• Ashokan Rail Trail - Hike on this mixed use paved trail along the north shore of the reservoir. Following the path of the Ulster and Delaware Railroad, the trail spans 11 miles from West Hurley to Boiceville. Spectacular views of the reservoir and beyond are found along the way as are remnants of the long abandoned railroad. There is a mid-point parking lot in Shokan. https://ashokanrailtrail.com/Accessible route.

Primitive Camping:

• Biscuit Brook lean-to in the Big Indian Wilderness

• Rochester Hollow lean-to in the Shandaken Wild Forest

• Note: The Rochester Hollow lean-to is an Accessible Recreation Destination site. See link above.

Cross-Country Skiing:

• Rochester Hollow in Big Indian. This beautiful trail offers excellent skiing for the intermediate skier.

• Belleayre Mountain Ski Area. There are trails for beginners and for those with advanced skills.

Flatwater Canoeing/Kayaking:

• Mongaup Pond - A 120 acre lake, the largest in the Catskills other than the NYC reservoirs, complete with a campground, swimming and boat rentals for paddling.

River Canoeing/Kayaking:

• The Esopus Creek has several good places to put in/take out. Conditions can be easy to difficult depending on water depth, with releases from a NYC water supply tunnel at Allaben common for the summer weekends.  Class II-III rapids.

Trout Fishing:

• Willowemoc Creek- One of the legendary trout streams that made the Catskills famous for trout fishing beginning in the mid to late-1800’s. The "Willow" is natural, free-flowing river that holds some beautiful fish and beautiful surroundings. Public fishing areas can be found at several sections along the course of the river. Generally typical Catskills fly hatches and fly patterns, according to the time of the season. Some sections open year round for catch and release only. Don’t forget to visit the non-profit Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum, between Livingston Manor and Roscoe to learn about our rich Catskill Mountains fly fishing heritage.

• Esopus Creek  The Esopus is known for being Babe Ruth's favorite trout fishing stream. With regular water releases from the Schoharie Reservoir's Shandaken Tunnel, water levels and cool temperatures provide excellent habitat as the broad creek heads towards the Ashokan Reservoir.

Warm-water Fishing:

• Mongaup Pond (see above)

Mountain Biking:

• Belleayre Mountain Ski Area - no lifts for bicycles at this time, but ORDA is working on making that feature available.

• Willowemoc Wild Forest - The trail system around Frick and Hodge Ponds and out to Quick Lake is extensive. The more appropriate snowmobile trails are open to mountain biking, but so are hiking trails. Use caution and be ready to yield to hikers.

Cycling:

• Moderate: Woodland Valley Rd. from Phoenicia out and back. A beautiful, peaceful ride in one of the Catskills most beautiful valleys. 12.6 miles round trip.

• Strenuous: Ride CR 47 (Oliverea-Slide Mtn.-Frost Valley Rd.) from Big Indian to SR 55 just south of Claryville. Go east to SR55A towards Sundown and continue to West Shokan on the Sundown-Peekamoose-Watson Hollow Rd. Turn north on SR28A to Boiceville and then northwest on SR 28, returning to Big Indian. Significant climbing, 64 miles.

WESTERN Catskill Park

Strenuous Hikes:

• Dry Brook Ridge from Margaretville to Mill Brook Rd. This is a high ridge hike with long views west to the Pepacton Reservoir from several ledges. 9.6 miles.

• Balsam Lake Mountain - By continuing south on the Dry Brook Ridge Trail another 2.2 miles to the junction with the Balsam Lake Mountain Trail you can climb this Catskills high peak (3720') which treats you to a fire tower on its summit.

• Bonus: Go on the weekend (spring through fall) and gain access to the fire tower cab and the interpretive knowledge of its keepers.

Moderate Hikes:

• Kelly Hollow - A nice loop trail through both serene hardwoods and deep dark Norway spruce plantations. Lean-to for camping next to a small beaver pond.

Easy Hikes:

• Alder Lake - Once you see what a beautiful place Alder Lake is, you'll want to keep it to yourself. A bowl in the mountains, surrounded by State land. Great for canoeing, tent camping, and brook trout fishing. A one-mile loop trail circles the lake, mostly flat and dry. The old abandoned Coykendall mansion looking over the lake is quickly succumbing to a sad state of decay, but is still architecturally interesting. A spectacular place when the fall foliage peaks.

• Waneta Lake - A pretty little lake that most people drive by without giving a second thought to. Hike over the "stepping stones" on the dam, and look for a yellow trail on the far side of the lake, leading to a handful of designated tent camping sites.

Primitive Camping:

• Beaver Meadow lean-to in the Balsam Lake Mountain Wild Forest

• Trout Pond lean-to in the Cherry Ridge Wild Forest

• Note: The Trout Pond lean-to is an Accessible Recreation Destination site. See link above.

Cross-Country Skiing:

• Kelly Hollow in the Balsam Lake Mountain Wild Forest is a designated cross country ski area. Intermediate to advanced.

Ice Skating

• Livingston Manor rink in Rotary Park on Pleasant Street in Livingson Manor -- it has a Facebook page! (Pleasant Street is one block southwest of the stoplight on Main Street)

Flatwater Canoeing/Kayaking:

• Big Pond - A real find for those who have never traveled down Barkaboom Road. The beautiful mountain setting of this medium-sized, deep lake will keep you coming back, as will the bald eagles and great fishing. Open for trout fishing year-round, which makes Big Pond a Catskills hot-spot for ice-fishing in winter. Pitch your tent at one of four designated campsites.

• Alder Lake - A medium sized pond that is perfect for casual paddling. The launch is a short distance from the parking area. There have been regular bald eagle sightings as well as other water fowl. A good place for a swim, too.

• Pepacton Reservoir -- newly opened by the NYC DEP, the Pepacton, along with the Schoharie, Neversink and Cannonsville reservoirs, are great places to do flat water paddling.   Serenity and wildlife abound on these reservoirs.  Boat rentals are available locally or, if you have your own boat it must be steam cleaned before bringing it to the launch site.   Read more about the reservoir boating program here, and the Pepacton specifically here, including information on rentals and steam cleaning vendors.  Get or renew your DEP Access Permit here.

River Canoeing/Kayaking:

• East Branch Delaware River -
  • Above the Pepaction reservoir you can paddle the slow moving East Branch into or out of Lake Wawaka in Halcottsville for a quiet scenic tour.  Boat rentals available at Susan's Pleasant Pheasant Farm.
  • Below the Pepacton Reservoir, water releases from the keep this river flowing steady even during dry summer months. Release water is very cold, which helps the healthy population of wild trout, but can make for painful swimming or wading in bare skin, at least in the upper stretches. A classic 5-mile float trip is from Rt. 206/30 bridge just above Downsville to the bridge in Shinhopple. Canoe/kayak rental available in Downsville.

Trout Fishing:

• Beaverkill River - Steeped in lore and legend, the Beaverkill is the preeminent American trout stream. It is the river that made the Catskills famous as the birthplace of American fly-fishing. Very little public access upstream of Roscoe, but many places to get on the river below Roscoe. Many fly shops and guides in the area. Best to fish at off-peak times when you can find some elbow room. River supports a great wild population of trout, mostly browns, but also rainbows and brookies.

• Pepacton Reservoir - The biggest brown trout in the Catskills, and perhaps the east, swim in the Pepacton. The reservoir is part of the New York City water supply system, and requires a permit to access. Fish from shore or rowboat just about anywhere in the spring, then go deep during the summer. Live bait fish (usually sawbellies) and shiny spoons (most notably Krocodiles) are proven methods. Water levels fluctuate depending on seasonal rainfall fluctuations. Beware of mercury contamination and other State health advisories.

Warm-water Fishing:

• Pepacton Reservoir - When the hot summer weather slows down the trout fishing, many anglers turn their attention to hard-fighting "bronzebacks" (smallmouth bass) of the Pepacton and other NYC reservoirs. Cruise the shoreline with fly or spinning rod, looking for good structure such as rock ledges and drop- offs. Access permit required; shore fishing or rowboats only. Water levels fluctuate depending on seasonal rainfall fluctuations; beware of mercury contamination and other State health advisories.

• Waneta Lake in the Willowemoc Wild Forest - see above    Note: Waneta Lake is an Accessible Recreation Destination site. See link above.

Mountain Biking:

• Snow-mobile Trail off Morton Hill Road - Ride 2.5 miles one-way on an old road bed to the unnamed peaks north of Morton Hill.

Cycling:

• Moderate: Ride from the parking area just south and west of the intersection of SR 28 and Reservoir Rd. to the Shavertown Bridge on a quiet back road. This gently rolling route offers spectacular views of the reservoir and the surrounding mountains. 10 miles one way. Complete you trip by returning the via the same route or cross the bridge and follow SR 30 back to Reservoir Rd. and your car. Loop 19.7 miles.

• Strenuous: Ride a complete loop around the Pepacton Reservoir. This route has significant climbing on its northern section. Start at the SR28/30 intersection west of Margaretville and ride to Downville, using the roads that hug the north side of the reservoir. Then travel back to your starting point via SR 30, BWS Road 8, Reservoir Rd. and SR 28/30. 51 miles.

NORTHEASTERN Catskill Region(Outside the Catskill Park)

Strenuous Hikes:

• The Long Path - Strenuous hikes along a portion of the Long Path from ROute 23 west in Windham to Huntersfield Road in Prattsville. Approximately 15 miles over 8 mountains.

Moderate Hikes:

• Vroman's Nose - The scenic gem of Schoharie County, this conspicuous promontory juts out over the pastoral Schoharie Creek Valley and provides fantastic views of some of New York's best farmland. This preserve, maintained by the non-profit Vroman's Nose Corporation, has dramatic ledges, an interesting geological history, and lies along the Long Path. Off NYS Rt. 30, near Middleburg.

Easy Hikes:Primitive Camping:

• Huntersfield Mountain Lean-to - The lean-to is located just below the summit of Huntersfield Mountain. The Long Path leads to the yellow-blazed NYSDEC trail that circles the summit and to the lean-to.
• Eminence State Forest Complex - The lean-to within the 12,000-acre Eminence State Forest can be reached by taking Route 30 north to West Fulton Road. Head west to Rossman Hill Road, and west on Rossman Hill Road to Burnt Hill Road. Make a left turn to reach the Lean-to. The Long Path is nearby.

Cross-Country Skiing:

• Catskill Scenic Trail from Roxbury to Bloomville in Delaware County. Multiple access points, so customize your ski trip.

Ice Skating

• Badgley Park in the Village of Middleburgh

• If your taste in rinks goes more to the indoor, well groomed rinks, Saugerties has what you're looking for in the Kiwanis Arena

• The Empire State Plaza in Albany turns into Empire Skate Plaza over the winter.

Flatwater Canoeing/Kayaking:

• Blenheim-Gilboa Reservoirs - The lower reservoir, accessed from Mine Kill State Park is less restrictive to use than the upper reservoir. You can check regulations and access information here.

• Pepacton Reservoir -- newly opened by the NYC DEP, the Pepacton, along with the Schoharie, Neversink and Cannonsville reservoirs, are great places to do flat water paddling.   Serenity and wildlife abound on these reservoirs.  Boat rentals are available locally or, if you have your own boat it must be steam cleaned before bringing it to the launch site.   Read more about the reservoir boating program here, and the Pepacton specifically here.

River Canoeing/Kayaking:

• East Branch of the Delaware River - The trip Halcottsville to Margaretville is about 5 miles. Below Margaretville you will enter the regulated waters of the NYC DEP, permit required. (See our page on DEP regulations.)  Boat rentals are available in Halcottsville and in Arkville as well as farther upstream in Roxbury. Check for stream conditions. Class I-II rapids.

Trout Fishing:

• The East Branch of the Delaware River and some of its tributaries below Halcottsville have about 5 miles of public fishing rights.

Warm-water Fishing:

• Lower Blenheim-Gilboa Reservoir. - see above

Mountain Biking:

• Mine Kill State Park - 8 miles of trails.

Cycling:

• Easy: Catskill Scenic Trail from Roxbury north and west to Bloomville.

• Moderately easy: CR 36 in Roxbury is a lightly traveled, gently rolling road passing through scenic farmlands.

NORTHWESTERN Catskill Region(Outside the Catskill Park)

Strenuous Hikes:

• Bearpen and Vly Mountains are the only two of the 35 Catskill High Peaks that are located outside of the Park. They are usually climbed on the same hike.

Moderate Hikes:

• Mount Utsayantha -  Climb to spectacular views on this 3214' peak with a wooden fire tower.

Easy Hikes:

• Emmons Pond Bog - A preserve owned and managed by The Nature Conservancy, with a hiking trail in easy walking distance from the road. Approach through a meadow with many wildflowers, then walk through the shrubby edge of the pond before stepping out onto a short boardwalk through the bog mat that surrounds the pond. See pitcher plants and other bog vegetation.
• The history of the pond and bog date back 11,000 years when the retreat of the last glacier left a drepression which was soon filled with water. Sphagnum moss and other bog plants grew in the shallow water around the edge of the pond. Plant materials broke down slowly because of the acidity and low temperature of the water. As a result, the plant materials accumulated to form a floating doughnut-shaped mat around the pond. Beavers dammed the outlet stream in the late 1970s, so the bog mat is now ringed with water.
• In the beginning of the trail there is a sign-in box and interpretive signs. The trail is easy and is marked with orange markers and is 1.4 mi long, circles the pond in a counter-clockwise direction. Southside Drive, 4 miles southeast of Oneonta in the Town of Davenport.

• Catskill Scenic Rail Trail - The scenic rolling hills and rich agricultural lands of the Delaware River Valley will surround you as you walk or bike on this gentle-grade path. Choose a stretch from the 20 miles of rail trail between Bloomville and Grand Gorge, or try out the newly completed 5.5-mile section from Grand Gorge to Roxbury.

Primitive Camping:Cross-Country Skiing:

• Catskill Scenic Trail - see above

Flatwater Canoeing/Kayaking:

• Schoharie Reservoir - One of the four NYC reservoirs open for recreational boating. is a great places to do flat water paddling.   Serenity and wildlife abound on these reservoirs.  Boat rentals are available locally or, if you have your own boat it must be steam cleaned before bringing it to the launch site.   Read more about the reservoir boating program here, and the Schoharie specifically here, including information on rentals and steam cleaning vendors.
• Susquehanna River - between Oneonta and Cooperstown, the Susquehanna is a wide lazy river, perfect for a relaxing day in your canoe, kayak or maybe even a stand up paddleboard.   Boat rentals and other info available in Portlandville.

River Canoeing/Kayaking:

• West Branch Delaware River - Spring rains and snow-melt make for a fun run on this meandering river through the beautiful rolling hills of Delaware County. Hold on tight to your paddle through the quick bends, and share the long flats with kingfishers, mergansers, herons, osprey, and bald eagles. A classic trip is from Bloomville or Delhi to Hamden. Put in at public bridges. River can be too low to float during drought months. Canoe rental available in Walton and the 18 mile trip from Delhi has Class I-II rapids. Oh, and don't forget to buy some local maple syrup!

Trout Fishing:

• West Branch Delaware River - Good fishing in both the farm country of the upper West Branch, and the tailwater river below the Cannonsville Reservoir. River below Deposit, and down into Main Stem of the Delaware below Hancock is one of the few places in the east where you can hire a guide to take you in a drift boat. Lots of public access points. The Delaware system is noted for its wild rainbows.

Warm-water Fishing:Mountain Biking:

• Ski Plattekill - This ski area offers fast action on the downhill slopes; serviced with chair lifts. Check their web site for rates and various events and competitions.

Cycling:

• Catskill Scenic Rail Trail - see above

SOUTHEASTERN Catskill Region(Outside the Catskill Park)

Strenuous Hikes:Moderate Hikes:

• Minnewaska State Park Preserve - Loop hike from Lake Minnewaska south to Gertrude's Nose then north to Millbrook Mountain and back to the start. Stunning open views, white cliffs, dwarf pines and wild blueberries in season.

Easy Hikes:

• Mohonk Preserve Carriage Trails - Take a stroll along the under-cliff or over-cliff carriage trails in the Trapps section of the beautiful Shawangunk Ridge. Enjoy the mountain laurel when it's in bloomin spring, pick blueberries when they're ripe in fall, and watch rock-climbers whenever the rocks are dry. Mohonk Preserve day pass or season pass required.

Primitive Camping:Cross-Country Skiing:

• Mohonk Preserve - see above

• Minnewaska State Park and Preserve - Extensive network of groomed trails.

Ice Skating

• Mohonk Mountain House, in New Paltz, has a refrigerated rink in their Pavillion

Flatwater Canoeing/Kayaking:

• Bashakill Wetland - A very unique and important wetland, the Bashakill is a part of a large protected area and tributary of the Nevesink River. The wetland is nestled between the Shawangunk Ridge and the Neversink Highlands, and offers a beautiful meandering paddling opportunity. Check with the non-profit Bashakill Area Association for guided outings led by professional botanists and other nature enthusiasts.

Flatwater Canoeing/Kayaking:

• Wallkill River - Gentle north flowing river. Gardiner north to New Paltz and on to Sturgeon Pool near Rosendale and just south of the confluence with the Rondout Creek.
• Neversink Reservoir -- newly opened by the NYC DEP, the Neversink , along with the Schoharie, Pepacton and Cannonsville reservoirs, are great places to do flat water paddling.   Serenity and wildlife abound on these reservoirs.  Boat rentals are available locally or, if you have your own boat it must be steam cleaned before bringing it to the launch site.   Read more about the reservoir boating program here, and the Neversink specifically here, including information on rentals and steam cleaning vendors.

Trout Fishing:

• Rondout Creek (upper) - Sections of the Rondout Creek below the Rondout Reservoir and down through Ellenville are stocked each year and generally remain cold enough to support trout. Temperatures begin to rise downstream of Ellenville.

Warm-water Fishing:

• Rondout Creek (lower) - The flat-water sections of the Rondout, upstream of High Falls, make for great places to try your hand at largemouth bass, crappies, and sunfish.

Mountain Biking:

• Vernooy State Forest - A recent addition to the State's land-holdings, the Vernooey State Forest outside of Ellenville is a great connector between the Catskills and Shawangunks. Several dirt roads make for relaxing mountain bikes rides with little or no other traffic.

• Lippman Park in Wawarsing. Built and maintained by enthusiasts.

Cycling:

• Wallkill Valley Rail Trail - Gentle-grade trail awaits those want to embark on a day-trip between Kingston and Gardiner. 24 miles of completed rail trail in all. Multiple access points. Nearby bike shops in Gardiner, New Paltz and Rosendale.
• Bonus: The recently opened section north of Rosendale crosses the 150' high Rosendale Trestle and passes through the historic Rosendale Cement mining operations and factory ruins.

• Minnewaska State Park Preserve - miles of carriage roads.
• Bonus: Marvel at Awosting Falls near the park entrance and then ride out to Lake Awosting for a swim.

SOUTHWESTERN Catskill Region(Outside the Catskill Park)

Strenuous Hikes:

• Neversink Unique Area - Explore a secret treasure of the Catskill region - the Neversink Gorge. The Neversink is a wild and beautiful river, and here it flows through an out-of-the-way valley, over waterfalls and through thick forests. Trails of 1 to 3 miles one-way lead to the river, and then bush-whacking can be the best way to truly explore the river's secrets.

Moderate Hikes:

• O & W Rail Trail - Two completed sections, one from Hurleyville to South Fallsburg, and one from Woodridge to Mountaindale, offer a relaxing stroll or bike ride.
• Rock Rift Fire Tower Trail  -   A brand new rail trail added to the Fingerlakes Trail system, alongside the Cannonsville Reservoir -- Click here for full details and maps

Easy Hikes:

• Crystal Lake Loop Trail - A relaxing loop hike around a beautiful hidden lake.
• Rock Rift Rail Trail  7.8 miles.  - A brand new rail trail added to the Fingerlakes Trail system, alongside the Cannonsville Reservoir -- Click here for full details and maps

Primitive Camping:Cross-Country Skiing:

• O & W Rail Trail - see above

Ice Skating:

• Hodges Pond, Oneonta -- ice conditions can be checked by calling 607-432-7997

Flatwater Canoeing/Kayaking:

• Crystal Lake in the Crystal Lake Wild Forest - A 32 acre lake with a boat launch and a hiking trail.
• Cannonsville Reservoir -- the first reservoir opened to recreational boating by the NYC DEP, the Cannonsville , along with the Schoharie, Pepacton and Neverskink reservoirs, are great places to do flat water paddling.  Electric trolling motors are also allowed on only this reservoir.    Serenity and wildlife abound on these reservoirs.  Boat rentals are available locally or, if you have your own boat it must be steam cleaned before bringing it to the launch site.   Read more about the reservoir boating program here, and the Cannonsville specifically here, including information on rentals and steam cleaning vendors.

River Canoeing/Kayaking:

• Delaware River - Designated a National Scenic and Recreational River, the Delaware is a classic float trip. Start in Hancock or any number of other public access points and flat as little as one or two miles, or as many as 10, 20, 50, or even 100 or more. The main-stem Delaware is the largest un-dammed river in the east, and boasts a healthy population of bald eagles and many game-fish species. Private outfitters rent canoes and kayaks, and run campgrounds and guided trips. Keep your eyes out for bald eagles! Hancock to Port Jervis has some Class I-II rapids.

Trout Fishing:

• Delaware River - The main-stem Delaware is the largest un-dammed river in the east, and supports a healthy population of naturally spawning brown, rainbow, and brook trout. One of the few good trout rivers in the east that can be floated in a rowboat or driftboat. Several fly shops and professional guides available in the area. The big river can be intimidating, so don't hesitate to seek professional advice on the best fishing tactics.

Warm-water Fishing:

• Delaware River - When the water temperatures rise in the downstream portions of the Delaware, many fisherman turn to black bass, walleye, and shad.

Mountain Biking:

• Walnut Mountain Park is a town owned park located in Liberty and consists of 265 acres. On the second highest mountain in Sullivan County, it has trails of varied difficulty. Open May 1 through September 30.

Cycling:

Take a Survey to Help Improve Catskills Recreation

We are writing to ask you to take a survey about your experiences of the Catskills. Whether you have visited, have considered visiting, or live here full or part time, your responses can help inform the work being done in the Catskills to improve experiences for all, including trip planning and the usage of services and recreational assets.This survey was initiated by the Catskill Park Coalition, of which the Catskill Mountain Club is a founding member. It is being used to create a Comprehensive Recreation Plan for the Greater Catskill Region. Administered by the Catskill Watershed Corporation, the plan will take an integrated look at the Catskill region's recreational assets and the economic impacts of those assets.The CMC believes that this study is vital to the continued improvement of the Catskill Park and region as a place for recreation, a destination for recreational tourism and as an invaluable conserved natural area.We appreciate your support.To begin, click here for the survey.