13 Best Catskills Hikes
With thousands of scenic hiking trails, the Catskills region of New York is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you want to climb mountain summits, discover hidden waterfalls, or take a peaceful walk through the forest, every path leads to an unforgettable experience. No matter which route you choose, you will feel a deep connection to these mountains, one that will draw you back again and again.
The Catskill Mountains include some of the most picturesque and diverse hiking trails in the Northeast region, making them suitable for hikers of all skill levels. From easy, family-friendly strolls to challenging climbs up the famous Catskills 3500 Club peaks, there is a perfect trail for everyone. Explore these top-rated hiking spots in the Catskills and start planning your next adventure today.
With stunning landscapes and endless opportunities for exploration, the Catskills is more than just a destination. Here are our recommended 13 best catskills hiking trails you must explore.
1) Giant Ledge
Giant Ledge is one of the most popular hiking trails in the Catskills, known for breathtaking views with a moderate effort. This 3.75-mile out-and-back trail features five stunning ledges along the route, each offering sweeping panoramas that will leave you in awe.
For an unforgettable adventure, consider bringing camping gear and spending the night on one of the ledges. The stargazing is incredible, and waking up to a Catskills sunrise is an experience you will never forget.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 3.75 miles
- Route Type: Out and back
- Elevation Gain: 975 ft
- Trailhead: Route 47, Oliverea Road📍
- County: Ulster County
Whether you are a seasoned hiker or exploring the Catskills for the first time, Giant Ledge is the perfect choice for anyone seeking scenic views and a rewarding hike.
2) Sam’s Point
Sam’s Point, located in Minnewaska State Park, offers one of the most remarkable hiking adventures in the Catskills. This 7.5-mile out-and-back trail combines breathtaking western views, a bird’s-eye look at the 180-foot Verkeerderkill Falls, wooden ladder scrambles, and even hidden ice caves. Yes, you can walk through narrow rock crevices lined with ice, even during spring and summer, making this trail unlike any other in the region.
Because parking is limited, reservations are required from May through October, so plan ahead for your visit.
- Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
- Distance: 7.5 miles
- Route Type: Out and back
- Elevation Gain: 1200 ft
- Trailhead: 400 Sam’s Point Road, Cragsmoor📍
- County: Ulster County
Sam’s Point is a must-see destination for hikers looking for dramatic scenery, unique terrain, and an unforgettable Catskills adventure.
3) Ashokan Rail Trail
The Ashokan Rail Trail (ART), opened in 2019, stretches along the northern edge of the Ashokan Reservoir between Basin Road in West Hurley and Route 28A in Boiceville. For the first time since the reservoir was built in 1911, visitors can enjoy this historic Ulster & Delaware Railroad corridor without needing a DEP Access Permit.
This 11.5-mile flat trail features a compacted crushed stone surface, 10 to 12 feet wide, making it fully ADA compliant and accessible to people of all abilities. Open year-round from sunrise to sunset, the ART is perfect for non-motorized activities, including hiking, bicycling, running, birdwatching, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 11.5 miles
- Route Type: Out and back
- Elevation Gain: N/A (flat trail)
- Trailhead:
- County: Ulster County
Whether you are looking for a peaceful walk, a long bike ride, or a winter adventure, the Ashokan Rail Trail offers breathtaking views of the Catskills and a welcoming experience for everyone.
4) Kaaterskill Falls
Standing at an impressive 260 feet, Kaaterskill Falls is the tallest waterfall in New York State, even higher than Niagara Falls. This iconic two-tier waterfall is one of the Catskills’ most breathtaking natural landmarks and a popular spot for hikers, painters, and photographers alike.
The well-maintained trail includes stairs that make the hike more accessible than it once was, but the path remains steep, so sturdy shoes are recommended. Visitors should always stay on the marked trail and avoid venturing beyond safety barriers.
Parking is available only at Laurel House Road, Scutt Road, or North South Lake State Campground. Follow the signage along County Route 18 to reach the correct trailhead.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 1 mile to the base of the falls
- Route Type: Out and back
- Elevation Gain: 260 feet from the top to the base
- Trailhead: Laurel House Road, east of Haines Falls
- County: Greene County
Whether you are visiting for a quick day hike or to capture unforgettable photos, Kaaterskill Falls delivers stunning views and a true Catskills adventure.
5) Hunter Mountain Fire Tower
At 4,040 feet, the Hunter Mountain Fire Tower marks one of the most demanding hikes in the Catskills and the toughest of the five fire tower trails in the park. The effort is well rewarded. Climb to the top of the fire tower and enjoy sweeping, panoramic views that stretch across three states: Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Vermont on clear days.
After your descent, extend the adventure by following the Hunter Mountain Loop for an additional 3.5 miles to the John Robb Lean-to, where you can spend the night under the stars in a picturesque Catskills setting. Parking is available at the DEC lot at the end of Spruceton Road, County Road 6 in Hunter.
- Difficulty: Hard
- Distance: 8.2 miles
- Route Type: Loop
- Elevation Gain: 1,898 ft
- Trailhead: Route 6, Hunter
- County: Greene County
For experienced hikers looking for a true challenge paired with spectacular scenery, the Hunter Mountain Fire Tower is a must-do Catskills adventure.
6) Frick Pond Loop
Frick Pond Loop is a short, scenic trail that’s perfect for families, kids, and older hikers. This 2.2-mile path winds through peaceful forests, open meadows, and quiet wetland areas, offering a great opportunity to spot birds and other wildlife along the way.
Boardwalks help you cross wetter sections of the trail, but it can still get muddy in spring or after heavy rain, so sturdy shoes are recommended. To find the trail, head to Beech Mountain Road, locate the Quick Lake/Flynn Trail trailhead, and follow the red markers to complete the loop.
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: 2.2 miles
- Route Type: Loop
- Elevation Gain: N/A (mostly flat)
- Trailhead: Beech Mountain Road, Willowemoc Wild Forest
- County: Sullivan County
Whether you’re planning a family outing or looking for a peaceful walk in nature, Frick Pond Loop is an excellent choice for a relaxed Catskills hike.
7) Neversink River Unique Area
The Neversink River Unique Area features an 8.4-mile loop that offers a true backcountry experience. Much of the route runs alongside the river, so the sound of flowing water follows you through peaceful forest terrain. Side paths lead to three scenic waterfalls, Denton Falls, High Falls, and Mullet Brook Falls; making this hike especially rewarding.
The trail is clearly marked and includes several bridges to make stream crossings easier. However, because of the nearby water, conditions can be slick or muddy at times. Wear durable, waterproof hiking boots to stay comfortable and sure-footed.
- Difficulty: Hard
- Distance: 8.4 miles
- Route Type: Loop
- Elevation Gain: N/A
- Trailhead: Katrina Falls Road, just south of Rock Hill
- County: Sullivan County
If you’re an experienced hiker looking for solitude, beautiful forest scenery, and a trio of waterfalls, this trail in the Catskills delivers an unforgettable challenge.
8) Bramley Mountain Trail
The Bramley Mountain Trail, built by the Catskill Mountain Club, takes hikers to the 2,817-foot summit of Bramley Mountain, offering wide-open views and a glimpse into the area’s past. Along the way, you’ll pass the site of a former fire tower, an abandoned bluestone quarry, and impressive cliffs and caves that line the footpath between the summit and quarry.
Parking is available on Glen Burnie Road, about one mile uphill from its intersection with County Road 18 in Delhi.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 4 miles
- Route Type: Loop
- Elevation Gain: 756 ft
- Trailhead: Glen Burnie Road, Delhi
- County: Delaware County
This rewarding Catskills hike blends natural beauty, unique geology, and a touch of local history, making it a perfect choice for adventurous day hikers.
9) Catskills Scenic Trail
The Catskills Scenic Trail is a 26-mile route perfect for walking, biking, horseback riding, or cross-country skiing. Once part of the Ulster & Delaware Railroad, this converted trail now offers a flat, even surface that makes it accessible to visitors of all ages and skill levels.
Stretching between Roxbury and Bloomville, the trail winds through rolling mountains, peaceful forests, and picturesque farmland. You can enjoy just a short section or take on the entire trail. Look for the blue and yellow octagonal markers and use the designated parking areas to access different starting points.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 26 miles
- Route Type: Out and back
- Elevation Gain: Gradual 400 ft
- Trailhead: Railroad Avenue, Stamford or Route 10, Bloomville
- County: Delaware County
With its gentle grade and beautiful scenery, the Catskills Scenic Trail is an ideal choice for families, casual explorers, and anyone seeking an outdoor escape in every season.
10) Mount Tremper
Mount Tremper, located near the hamlet of Phoenicia in the Catskills, is known for being a demanding trail despite its lower elevation compared to the region’s High Peaks. This 6-mile out-and-back hike climbs steadily with an elevation gain of 2,740 feet, making it best suited for seasoned hikers.
The trail rewards those who take it on with rugged mountain terrain and a true wilderness experience. Hikers should stay alert, as black bears are frequently spotted near the summit, and there is at least one confirmed rattlesnake den along the route. A convenient parking lot is located near the trailhead, making access straightforward.
- Difficulty: Hard
- Distance: 6 miles
- Route Type: Out and back
- Elevation Gain: 2,740 ft
- Trailhead: Mt Tremper-Phoenicia Road, Phoenicia
- County: Ulster County
With its gentle grade and beautiful scenery, the Catskills Scenic Trail is an ideal choice for families, casual explorers, and anyone seeking an outdoor escape in every season.
11) Overlook Mountain
Overlook Mountain in Woodstock is one of the most popular hikes in the Catskills, especially for those who love trails that lead to a fire tower. This 5-mile out-and-back hike climbs about 3,000 feet, offering a steady challenge best suited for hikers with proper experience and gear.
At the summit, the Overlook Mountain Fire Tower delivers breathtaking panoramic views of the Hudson River Valley, stretching to the Berkshires, Taconics, and Litchfield Hills. Parking at the trailhead is limited, so plan to arrive early to secure a spot. Hikers should also keep an eye out for rattlesnakes and ensure pets remain close and leashed at all times.
- Difficulty: Hard
- Distance: 5 miles
- Route Type: Out and back
- Elevation Gain: 3,000 ft
- Trailhead: 353 Meads Mountain Road, Woodstock
- County: Ulster County
If you’re looking for a Catskills hike with incredible views and a classic fire tower experience, Overlook Mountain is a must-visit.
12) North Point
Located inside the North-South Lake Campground in Greene County, the North Point hike offers a variety of scenic trails suitable for different skill levels. Short and easy walks lead to the historic Catskill Mountain House site, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. For a bit more adventure, the moderate route climbs to Boulder Rock and Sunset Park, rewarding hikers with incredible vistas.
This 3-mile out-and-back trail gains about 797 feet in elevation, making it perfect for families or anyone looking for a moderate hike with stunning scenery. Planning a camping trip? The North-South Lake Campground is a great base for exploring even more Catskills hiking trails.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 3 miles
- Route Type: Out and back
- Elevation Gain: 797 ft
- Trailhead:Inside North-South Lake Campground on N Lake Road
- County: Greene County
If you’re searching for an accessible yet rewarding Catskills hike, North Point delivers beautiful views, historic landmarks, and a family-friendly experience.
13) Balsam Lake Fire Tower
Balsam Lake Mountain stands as the 17th highest peak in the Catskill Mountains and is best known for its iconic fire tower at the summit. During the summer months, hikers can climb the tower for breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. In winter, the mountain transforms into a popular destination for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, although the views are more limited when the tower is closed.
The 6-mile out-and-back trail features a moderate climb with an elevation gain of 3,731 feet, making it a rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are planning a quick day trip from NYC, adding a hike to your Catskills camping adventure, or visiting with family, this trail delivers both challenge and stunning scenery.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 6 miles
- Route Type: Out and back
- Elevation Gain: 3,731 ft
- Trailhead: Near Balsam Lake Lodge on Turnwood Road, Livingston Manor
- County: Delaware County
Pro tip: Bring your camera to capture the panoramic views, but don’t forget to put it away and simply enjoy the moment. Always carry a paper map, stay aware of changing weather conditions, and hike responsibly. Every mountain in the Catskills offers something unique, but after hiking Balsam Lake Fire Tower, you’ll likely find yourself planning your next adventure.
