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Catskills Hiking Trails & Tips

Experience the beauty of the Great Northern Catskills along tree-lined paths and mountaintops.

The Catskills offer some of the best Upstate NY hiking trails close to the city. Experience the enchantment of walking along wooded paths, pausing by bubbling streams, and feeling the thunder of cascading waterfalls in Greene County. Explore the "cloves" where legendary Rip Van Winkle succumbed to the magic of Henry Hudson's drink, and where painters and poets paused to capture the region's stunning natural beauty. 

Stay at one of our popular Catskills resorts and be close to the trailhead, a brewpub, and downtown shopping. 

Diamond Notch Falls in the Great Northern Catskills

Best Waterfall Hikes

We have compiled a list of the best waterfall hikes in the Catskills!

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Group of friends walking in woods

Great Northern Catskills' Hiking Guide

Find hiking in the Great Northern Catskills of Greene County! Whether you choose a local park, nature center, walking path, or more challenging climb, be sure to follow the Leave No Trace principles.

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Outdoors
Couple hiking in the Catskills
Catskill Mountains with flowers in the foreground

Best Hiking in the Catskills

One of only two "Forever Wild" parks in New York State, the Catskill Park offers amazing hikes for all abilities. Greene County is also home to the highest peaks in the Catskill Mountains. From North-South Lake, hike to the summit of Newman's Ledge, once home to the Catskill Mountain House, one of the 19th century's premier resorts. From this lofty height, peer across the lush Hudson River Valley. Take the short-but-super-scenic trek to the "Mount Rushmore of the East" - Pratt's Rock. This Prattsville monument chronicles the life of Zadock Pratt, a 19th century leather tanning tycoon who commissioned the carvings to immortalize his life and contributions to the region. 

Explore some possible itineraries to find a hike that suits your ability level and meets your Catskills bucket list needs. Wherever you hike, please be respectful of the land and other visitors by following the seven Leave No Trace principles.

 

Leave No Trace Principles
Couple hiking to a scenic overlook in the Catskills
Dad and daughter hiking in the Catskills

Choose your Greatest-Of-All-Time Adventure

Best Waterfall Hikes

  • Diamond Notch Falls -2 miles round trip via Spruceton Road and 4 miles round trip via Diamond Notch Road, features a 15-foot waterfall.
  • Bastion Falls - ~0.5 miles roundtrip, three drops, located on Route 23A trail to Kaaterskill Falls
  • Ashley Falls - 0.6 miles roundtrip, scenic, located via Mary Glen Trail
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Best Scenic Overlooks

  • Catskill Mountain House - Short walk from North-South Lake State Campground's beach. View of Hudson River
  • Kaaterskill Clove Lookout - 1.8 miles round trip offers dramatic views and historical importance
  • Five State Lookout - From Route 23 along the Mohican Trail, enjoy a panoramic view of five states: NY, VT, MA, CT, NH
  • Pratt Rock - 3.1 mile round trip hike with steep section that leads to carvings in the cliffside

Best Short Family Hikes

  • RamsHorn Livingston Sanctuary - 3 miles of trails through the Hudson's largest tidal swamp
  • Mountain Top Arboretum - 4 trail networks through meadows, forests, and glens
  • Sunset Rock - 1.4 miles roundtrip. See the view Hudson River School painters Cole, Cropsey, and Gifford immortalized
  • Hunter Mountain - Take the Scenic Skyride to the summit and walk the short distance to the large carving of Rip Van Winkle

Best Hikes in the Catskills

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Windham High Peak via Burnt Knob

Great hike for panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson Valley. 7 mile hike. 

  • Maplecrest, NY
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Wild Hudson Valley

Wild Hudson Valley

Explore the vibrant human and natural history of our region with Wild Hudson Valley, a Forest Farm and Eco Camp devoted to connecting people with the wonders of the natural world through immersive experiences in nature, history, and wild foods.

  • Cairo, NY
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The Windham Path

The Windham Path

1.5-mile family-friendly path in Windham, NY, with views of the Great Northern Catskills.

  • Windham, NY
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The willows

The Willows at Brandow Point

The Willows has over a mile of walking trails that lead down to the shore of the Hudson River. 

Open from dawn to dusk and dogs on leashes are welcome. 

  • Athens, NY
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Kaaterskill Rail Trail

The Kaaterskill Rail Trail

The Kaaterskill Rail Trail starts at the Mountain Top Historical Property on the former Ulster and Delaware Railroad, and ends at Laurel House Road, just above Kaaterskill Falls and

  • Haines Falls, NY
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The Huckleberry Trail

The Huckleberry Trail

Bike, walk, cross-country ski or snowshoe on a 2.3 mile path which is made from a historical railroad track

  • Tannersville, NY
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Sunset Rock

Sunset Rock is a 4.6-mile hike with mild to heavy foot traffic. This loop also connected to Artist’s Rock, Newman’s Ledge and Mary’s Glen Trail.

  • Haines Falls, NY
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Siuslaw Model Forest

Siuslaw Model Forest

142 acre Siuslaw Model Forest

  • Acra, NY
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Scenic Hudson's Long View Park

Park features bird watching, dog walking, picnicking, hiking, x-country skiing and snow shoeing.

  • New Baltimore, NY
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lake map

Rip Van Winkle Lake Park

Rip Van Winkle Lake: Paddleboard, music, frisbee golf & more! Family fun in Tannersville!

  • Tannersville, NY
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Hudson River Art Trail
mountain top cooking in the catskills
Everything You Need to Know

Tips for Hiking in the Catskills

The Great Northern Catskills of Greene County are home to some of the most epic hiking trails in New York State, and offer outstanding views. While you soak in the experience, exercise caution at all times to limit the risk of personal injury, minimize endangerment to others, and preserve the natural beauty of the land.

 

Simple, Easy-To-Follow Hiking Tips:

  • Before you begin your hike, prepare yourself by researching your route.
  • As you plan your trip, keep the weather in mind. Check forecasts, and remember that conditions can differ from trailhead to summit.
  • Keep to marked trails. Taking shortcuts or bushwhacking can lead to trail erosion and greatly increase your chances of getting lost and/or injured.
  • Wear sturdy shoes for hiking and all other outdoor activities.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather and the trail. Pack extra layers in case of rain or cold temperatures.
  • Pack plenty of food and water, especially if you are planning an extended hike.
  • Carry a map and compass for extended hikes. Expect limited cell service and do not rely on GPS as your only source for directions.
  • Carry bug spray, sunscreen, a first aid kit, and a flashlight or headlamp.
  • Opt for reusable plastics or metals instead of breakable glass or single use containers.
  • Carry out what you carry in. There is a $250 fine for littering in the Catskills.
  • Never climb on waterfalls. Water and algae can make the ground and rocks slick, increasing your chances of injury.
  • Only light small campfires in designated areas. Fires are not permitted above 3,500 ft.
  • Be respectful of wildlife. Give them space and never feed wild animals.
  • Most importantly – have fun and enjoy our beautiful wilderness!

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