The Easy Hikes
Easy Hiking Trails
This hand-curated selection of non-strenuous hikes is for lovers of the outdoors, forest, fauna, and fun.
Not everyone wants to — or can — hike up a mountain. These trails will get you into the hills for a great time without unduly taxing your body.
But these are wilderness hikes — so make sure to pack your ten essentials.
Note 1: Be aware that “easy mountain hikes” does not mean “easy hikes” — before you go, learn how to stay safe on a mountain.
Note 2: Easy Catskill hikes are easier than easy Adirondack hikes. An easy Adirondack hike is equivalent to a moderate Catskill hike.
Israel Wittman Sanctuary Trails Guide (Updated)
Newly expanded with the addition of Loop C, this sanctuary secures its place as a forever favorite.
Saugerties Lighthouse Trail
The super sweet and very short Saugerties Lighthouse trail is a huge hit with all ages.
Secret Hike: Mega Mounds & Shadow Pool
This short, strange hike leads through one of the largest quarries in The Catskills.
Balsam Lake Fire Tower (updated)
Incredible 360° wilderness views make this hike spectacular at any time of year.
Diamond Notch Falls via Spruceton
A short, easy mountain hike to a true Catskills gem: Diamond Notch Falls.
Best Hikes of 2022
These are the best hikes I did in 2022 — 17 amazing day-hikes sorted by level of difficulty.
High Falls Conservation Area
Short, easy hiking trails wind through High Falls Conservation Area to one of the most spectacular waterfalls in New York.
5 Best Hiking Trails Near Woodstock
Here are the best hiking trails near Woodstock, New York. All kid-friendly so the whole family can enjoy a deep nature excursion.
18 Amazing Western Catskills Hikes
Some of the best day hikes are only a few hours from New York City. The Western Catskills have it all!
Vernooy Falls Trail: Waterfalls & Mill Ruins
The delightful Vernooy Falls hiking trail leads to one of the funnest spots in The Catskills.
Bash Bish Falls
An easy walk leads to a spectacular payoff: Bash Bish Falls — Massachusetts’ highest waterfall.
Windham High Peak in 3 Minutes (Walk-Thru Video)
This is one of my favorite hikes to do in The Catskills. This video walks you through the trails and junctions from trailhead to summit, giving you a clear sense of just how lovely this hike is.
