Catskills Hiking Trails & Tips
Home to the highest Catskill Mountain peaks, the region offers an array of hiking trails to choose from.
The Catskills offer some of the best New York hiking 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. Find 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's shopping district.
Best Catskill Hikes
Home to the highest peaks in the Catskill Park, one of only two "Forever Wild" parks in New York State, the Catskills hiking scene offers hikes for all abilities. From North-South Lake, hike to the summit of Newman's Ledge, once home to one of the 19th century's premier resort – the Catskill Mountain House. 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. Mark your map for a Kaaterskill Falls hike, one of the most popular routes in the Catskills.
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. Hikers in the Catskills should exercise caution at all times to limit the risk of personal injury or the endangerment to others, as well as to preserve the natural beauty.
