Snowmobiling in the NY Catskills
Dash through the Catskills on a snowmobile! Winter brings a wide variety of thrilling outdoor recreation to the region, but nothing will satisfy your need for speed like snowmobiling. Zoom across snow-covered fields. Explore a wide interconnected network of backcountry trails. It’s the perfect way to see a lot of the Catskills region in one trip. Read on for our latest recommendations on the best places to sled this winter. We have also listed businesses to rent snowmobile for the whole family to enjoy!
At 287,500 acres, the Catskills Forest Preserve provides plenty of wild, rugged land for snowmobilers to explore. Often narrow and ungroomed, backcountry trails offer a unique experience. Ride seasonal motor vehicle trails or designated backcountry snowmobile trails. The trails open once big game hunting season ends, which gives the trails plenty of time to be covered in snow. From then until spring, it’s non-stop fun!
Snowmobiling is a popular activity for locals and visitors throughout the Catskills, but especially in the west! Hundreds of miles of well-maintained, interconnected trails boast stunning scenery and conditions you can’t beat. Ride over rolling mountains, through dense forests, and past frozen lakes. Before you head out on the trails, touch base with one of these local clubs for updates on trails and conditions:
- Central Catskill Trail Association
- D&D Snowdiggers, Inc.
- Delaware Valley Ridge Riders
- Delaware-Otsego-Chenango Snowriders
- Hamden Hill Ridge Riders
Catskills Snowmobile Rentals
If you’re interested in taking a ride, but don’t have your own sled, make a trip to the Rip Van Winkle Ranch in Hunter, New York. They rent snowmobiles and will guide you as you explore their mountain trails. A fun and memorable activity for families, they make sure the experience is safe for all ages. Depending on snow conditions, rentals are generally available from November through April.
Snowmobiling Safety Tips
As always, please be sure to ride responsibly and safely. Before you head out into the backcountry, check to make sure your sled is in good working order. Always wear a helmet and proper cold-weather gear, and don’t ride alone. Not only is riding with a buddy more fun – it’s safer too! Please respect private landowners and stick to marked, designated trails. And, when your ride is done, stop in the nearest town for a bite to eat and local craft drink.
If you’re looking for a place to go snowmobiling close to NYC, the Catskills is the place to visit! We’ll see you on the trails this winter in the Catskills!
