If you’re looking for an adventure in nature, hiking in the Catskills is a must. With its rugged terrain, lush forests, and stunning views, the area offers endless opportunities for outdoor exploration. One of the best places to start is Woodstock, NY, a charming town located in the heart of the Catskills. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the top hiking trails near Woodstock, NY, and explore what makes each of them unique.
Overlook Mountain Trail
Overlook Mountain Trail is a moderate hike that offers breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley. The trail is approximately 4.6 miles round trip and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. The highlight of the hike is the abandoned Overlook Mountain House, a former hotel that was built in the 1800s. The trailhead is located just outside of Woodstock, and there is a parking lot available for hikers.
Kaaterskill Falls Trail
Kaaterskill Falls Trail is a popular hike that leads to one of the tallest waterfalls in New York. The trail is approximately 1.4 miles round trip and takes about 1-2 hours to complete. The waterfall is 260 feet tall and is truly a sight to behold. The trailhead is located in the town of Hunter, about 20 minutes from Woodstock.
Devil’s Path
Devil’s Path is a challenging hike that is not for the faint of heart. The trail is approximately 24 miles long and takes about 2-3 days to complete. The hike features steep climbs, rocky terrain, and stunning views of the Catskills. The trailhead is located in the town of Hunter, about 20 minutes from Woodstock.
Overlook Spur Trail
Overlook Spur Trail is a short but steep hike that leads to an overlook with stunning views of the Hudson Valley. The trail is approximately 1.5 miles round trip and takes about 1-2 hours to complete. The trailhead is located just outside of Woodstock, and there is a parking lot available for hikers.
Plattekill Mountain Trail
Plattekill Mountain Trail is a moderate hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is approximately 5 miles round trip and takes about 3-4 hours to complete. The highlight of the hike is the summit, which offers panoramic views of the Catskills. The trailhead is located in the town of Roxbury, about 40 minutes from Woodstock.
Indian Head Mountain Trail
Indian Head Mountain Trail is a moderate hike that offers stunning views of the Catskills. The trail is approximately 8.6 miles round trip and takes about 4-5 hours to complete. The highlight of the hike is the summit, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The trailhead is located in the town of Elka Park, about 30 minutes from Woodstock.
Escarpment Trail
Escarpment Trail is a challenging hike that offers stunning views of the Catskills. The trail is approximately 23 miles long and takes about 2-3 days to complete. The hike features steep climbs, rocky terrain, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trailhead is located in the town of Haines Falls, about 30 minutes from Woodstock.
Huckleberry Point Trail
Huckleberry Point Trail is a moderate hike that leads to an overlook with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is approximately 5.5 miles round trip and takes about 3-4 hours to complete. The trailhead is located in the town of West Kill, about 45 minutes from Woodstock.
Giant Ledge Trail
Giant Ledge Trail is a popular hike that offers stunning views of the Catskills. The trail is approximately 3.2 miles round trip and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. The highlight of the hike is the series of ledges that offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The trailhead is located in the town of Big Indian, about 50 minutes from Woodstock.
Ohayo Mountain Trail
Ohayo Mountain Trail is a moderate hike that offers stunning views of the Hudson Valley. The trail is approximately 4.8 miles round trip and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. The highlight of the hike is the summit, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The trailhead is located just outside of Woodstock, and there is a parking lot available for hikers.
Ashokan Reservoir Trail
Ashokan Reservoir Trail is an easy hike that offers stunning views of the reservoir and the surrounding mountains. The trail is approximately 3.5 miles round trip and takes about 1-2 hours to complete. The highlight of the hike is the views of the reservoir, which is a source of drinking water for New York City. The trailhead is located in the town of Olivebridge, about 25 minutes from Woodstock.
Catskill Scenic Trail
Catskill Scenic Trail is a scenic hike that follows an old railroad bed. The trail is approximately 26 miles long and takes about 1-2 days to complete. The highlight of the hike is the scenic views of the Catskills and the surrounding countryside. The trailhead is located in the town of Roxbury, about 40 minutes from Woodstock.
Vernooy Kill Falls Trail
Vernooy Kill Falls Trail is a moderate hike that leads to a series of waterfalls. The trail is approximately 3.2 miles round trip and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. The highlight of the hike is the waterfalls, which are a sight to behold. The trailhead is located in the town of Kerhonkson, about 35 minutes from Woodstock.
Tremper Mountain Trail
Tremper Mountain Trail is a moderate hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is approximately 5.8 miles round trip and takes about 3-4 hours to complete. The highlight of the hike is the summit, which offers panoramic views of the Catskills. The trailhead is located in the town of Phoenicia, about 25 minutes from Woodstock.
Slide Mountain Trail
Slide Mountain Trail is a challenging hike that leads to the highest peak in the Catskills. The trail is approximately 6.6 miles round trip and takes about 5-6 hours to complete. The highlight of the hike is the summit, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The trailhead is located in the town of Oliverea, about 1 hour from Woodstock.
Conclusion
Hiking in the Catskills is an unforgettable experience, and there’s no better place to start than Woodstock, NY. With its diverse range of trails, there’s something for every level of hiker. From easy hikes to challenging treks, the Catskills offer stunning views and a chance to reconnect with nature. So, pack your hiking boots and head to Woodstock to explore the beauty of the Catskills.
FAQs:
- Are the hiking trails near Woodstock, NY pet-friendly?
- Many of the hiking trails near Woodstock, NY allow leashed pets. However, it is best to check the specific trail rules before bringing your furry friend.
- Are there any fees associated with hiking near Woodstock, NY?
- While some of the hiking trails may require a fee for parking, most of the trails are free to access.
- What is the best time of year to hike near Woodstock, NY?
- The best time of year to hike near Woodstock, NY is during the fall or spring when the weather is cooler and the foliage is at its most vibrant.
- Can I camp overnight on the hiking trails near Woodstock, NY?
- Most of the hiking trails near Woodstock, NY do not allow overnight camping. However, there are several nearby campgrounds that offer camping facilities.
- Are there any guided hiking tours available near Woodstock, NY?
- Yes, there are several guided hiking tours available near Woodstock, NY, which offer a unique and informative experience for hikers of all levels.