Outdoor Experiences
Retreats
Weddings
Outdoor Experiences
Retreats
Weddings
There’s a reason the Catskill Mountains inspired so many 19th-century landscape painters. This mountain range in southeastern New York State draws millions of nature-lovers to its rolling mountainscape every year for skiing, bird-watching, biking, and above all, hiking. But whether you’re new to adventure in the great outdoors or a seasoned explorer, there are Catskills hiking trails to help you tap into your sense of wonder. From rugged slopes to well-maintained recreation trails, these hikes are a tranquil reprieve from the city streets and daily stresses. Let’s get exploring!
New to hiking? Don’t sweat it. Even beginners can savor the great outdoors—with the right trails, of course. The four trails below are categorized as “easy” hikes and are ideal for even the most committed couch potatoes. With level pathways, steady elevations, and stunning backcountry sights, you’ll fall in love with nature all over again. Explore easy Catskills hiking trails below.
First on our list of easy Catskills hiking trails is the Ashokan Rail Trail, which runs 11.5 miles (out and back) along the peaceful Ashokan Reservoir in Ulster County. The crushed stone surface of the trail, along with zero elevation gain, makes it ideal for biking and hiking with the family or simply enjoying the mountain views with Fido. Not to mention, this trail is fantastic for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. This trail can be accessed from three separate trailheads: Woodstock Dike Trailhead, Ashokan Station Trailhead, and Boiceville Bridge Trailhead. So, grab the family and enjoy a scenic stroll on the Ashokan Rail Trail!
Up next, Frick Pond Loop is known for being one of the most family-friendly (and senior-friendly) hikes in the Catskills. Just 2.2 miles in length, this Catskills hiking trail guides you through a scenic loop, where you’ll find lush forests teeming with wildlife. From birds to white-tailed deer to tinier creatures scurrying along the forest floor and breezy meadows, this hike is a treat for nature lovers. Moreover, Frick Pond Loop passes through wetlands, which can make the boardwalk muddy in the springtime, providing a great variety to your adventure. The trailhead is located on Beech Mountain Road. Then, simply follow the red trail markers to complete the loop.
The Catskills Scenic Trail follows 26 miles of what was once the Ulster and Delaware Railroad. With a level surface and gradual 400-foot elevation gain, this trail makes for a serene stroll, no matter how many miles you choose to tackle! Meander past dense forests and rich farmland, admiring breathtaking views of the rolling mountains and the Delaware River the whole way through. Breathe in the fresh air on foot, or add to the adventure with a horseback riding or biking expedition. You’ll find trailhead locations on Railroad Avenue, Stamford, as well as County Route 10, Bloomville.
Last on the list for easy Catskills hiking trails is the Kaaterskill Rail Trail. This trail leads to beautiful Kaaterskill Falls, a beloved spot for both locals and tourists. This 3.7-mile, out-and-back trail begins at the top of Mountain Top Historical Society in lovely Haines Falls, New York, where you’ll find plenty of parking. Moreover, with a 252-foot elevation gain, this hike is perfect for beginner hikers, families, and those wanting a brisk workout with a worthy reward.
Living up to its name, the Kaaterskill Rail Trail follows the old Delaware Railroad bed. It winds through flourishing woods, past beautiful views of the mountainscape, and eventually, to the magnificent Kaaterskill Falls. These falls cascade down 260 feet over two tiers and are one of the most-visited waterfalls in New York State. This hike should take you about an hour and twenty minutes to complete. So, it’s a great morning adventure or after-lunch activity.
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For outdoorsmen who want more of a challenge, these hikes are for you. The following trails are considered “hard” and “moderate” hikes, guiding you through more challenging terrain with greater lengths and elevation gains. However, you don’t have to be an expert hiker to take on these trails! Bringing the appropriate gear and taking necessary precautions can make all the difference. And as always, be sure to do your research. Let’s dive in!
The North Point hiking trail is located in the tranquil North-South Lake Campground. Known for its great variety of trails, this campground makes use of multiple trails in a moderately challenging 3-mile, out-and-back route. Many of the short hikes in this area bring you to the Catskill Mountain House, where you can admire breathtaking overlooks. Meanwhile, the more demanding routes have you ascend to high elevations (797 feet) to locations like Boulder Rock and Sunset Park, which reveal mesmerizing sunsets and views of the horizon. Though this hike is labeled moderate, many families and beginners are capable of completing this trail with little issue.
Moreover, explorers looking for a moderate hike to get their blood pumping will enjoy the Balsam Lake Fire Tower hike. As the 17th-highest peak in the Catskills Mountain Range, Balsam Lake Mountain is the perfect landscape for winter snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. However, the fire tower is only open during the summer for safety purposes. This 6-mile, out-and-back Catskills hiking trail gains about 3,731 feet in elevation. And from the top of the fire tower, you can soak in 360-degree views of the dense forests and rolling mountains. The trailhead to the Balsam Lake Fire Tower is on Turnwood Road, Livingston Manor, near Balsam Lake Lodge.
As the fire tower with the highest elevation in all of New York State, hikers who take on Hunter Mountain Fire Tower have their work cut out for them. This Catskills hiking trail has a summit of over 4,000 feet and an elevation gain of 1,898 feet. So, be sure to bring sturdy shoes. It’s considered the most difficult of the five fire tower hikes in the Catskills Park, though well worth the 8.2-mile loop journey. At the top of the fire tower, a clear day will reveal scenic views of three states, Vermont, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, as well as unique rock formations stretching into the distance. You’ll find the parking lot for this trail at the end of Spruceton Road in Greene County.
Last on our list is a hike that should only be taken on by adventurers with hiking experience: Mount Tremper. The summit of Tremper Mountain is lower than the other Catskills High Peaks. However, it makes for a tough and relatively dangerous hike. Brave hikers also often observe rattlesnakes and black bears. So, please exercise caution should you decide to embark on this hike. You’ll find the trailhead at Mount Tremper-Phoenicia Road in the hamlet of Phoenicia. This out-and-back trail extends six miles, with a daunting elevation gain of over 2,000 feet and a hike time of around four hours. However, upon reaching the summit, you’ll bask in panoramic views of the landscape, rising and falling with mountain peaks.
Such a nature-forward getaway deserves an equally peaceful accommodation, and few local Callicoon hotels can compare to Callicoon Hills Resort. This boutique outdoor hotel is both rugged and luxurious, combining the comfort of a resort with the beauty of the great outdoors. On these 23-acre grounds, adventure meets relaxation. Start your morning on the yoga deck, overlooking the lush forests below, or retreat to the Scandinavian saunas for a relaxing cleanse. Later, cool off from a day of Catskills hiking in the oversized pool, or warm up next to the crackling fire pits with s’mores and a glass of wine. Explore all amenities below.
Choose from five unique lodgings at Callicoon Hills. On a couple’s getaway? Consider the dreamy A-Frame cabins hidden in the lush forest (sleeps two), the charming Ridge Rooms (sleeps two), the Pool House rooms (sleeps two to four), or the Boarding House rooms (sleeps two). These options all include king or queen-size beds, modern bathrooms, and other home-like comforts. Traveling with a larger party? Book the standalone Creekside Cabin, sleeping six with a combination of beds and featuring amenities such as a living room, full kitchen, and two bathrooms. However you stay, you’ll find rest comes easily after a long day in nature.
Strap on your boots and grab your gear; it’s time for your next adventure. Whether it’s the Catskills hiking trails calling your name or simply the desire for a trip spent in nature, Nook Outdoors has what you’re looking for. From the vineyards of Texas Hill Country to secluded mountain cabins in the Smokies, you’re next outdoor getaway is just a click away. What’s more, when you book with Nook, you have the guaranteed comfort and luxury of boutique hotels, glamping resorts, and even enchanting treehouse rentals. Browse our curated collection of resorts and other bucket list travel adventures below!
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