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Want a deep Catskills experience without the angst of a rigorous mountain hike? These are the easy Catskills hikes for you.
Exploring the Catskill Mountains through easy hikes is a source of pure joy, both for solo adventurers seeking solitude and families in pursuit of quality time together. These gentle trails, winding through lush forests and along babbling brooks, offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
For solo hikers, these easy treks provide a serene sanctuary where the mind can wander freely. The Catskills’ calm ambiance, punctuated by the rustling leaves and melodious bird songs, creates an ideal setting for introspection and rejuvenation. The simplicity of these hikes allows solo travelers to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty, finding solace in the quietude of the woods.
For families, easy hikes in the Catskills offer a splendid opportunity to bond amidst Mother Nature’s wonders. The shared experience of reaching a gentle summit or discovering a hidden waterfall becomes a cherished memory that strengthens family connections.
The joy of easy hikes in the Catskills lies not only in the destination but in the journey itself. These trails are welcoming to hikers of all ages and skill levels, making the mountains accessible to everyone. Whether it’s a solo excursion for self-discovery or a family adventure filled with laughter and exploration, the Catskills’ easy hikes offer a gateway to joy, connection, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
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Easy Hikes in the Catskills
These easy Catskills hikes are presented in order of increasing difficulty, but all six are very do-able. These routes are a wonderful way to get a real-Catskills nature fix — without adding the risks that come with tougher hiking trails.
The first four have almost zero elevation gain — meaning, they’re relatively flat hikes. They are amazing Nature Walks and are do-able by anybody free of mobility concerns.
The two mountain hikes at the end have very moderate elevation gains and no technical concerns; they are the two easiest Catskills High Peaks to hike. Both hikes make for a perfect introduction to the deep joys of mountain hiking.
Immerse yourself in the outdoors with these easy Catskills hikes…
Kaaterskill Falls
Kaaterskill Falls is one of the most popular and iconic destinations in the Catskills.
The falls are the tallest cascading falls in New York State, dropping for a total of 260 feet in two plumes — which is much taller than Niagara Falls. But it’s really the incredible structure of the falls that makes it such a spectacular experience. Absolutely stunning at any time of year.
Ashokan Quarry Trail
A short, super-easy hike almost anyone can do — with fantastic terrain and scenic views, and a superb set of ruins to explore.
The Ashokan Quarry Trail is a new, short and highly entertaining hike most people will be able to do in under an hour.
It’s so varied in terms of terrain, flora, views and ruins, it’s a hit with younger hikers, too.
Onteora Lake
Just a 10 minute drive from both Kingston and Woodstock, Onteora Lake is a fantastic set of three interconnected loops that are perfect for a hit of the real Catskills.
Its lake, ponds, streams, trails, old quarries, hemlock and oak forests on gently rolling hills — with occasional cliffs — are ideal for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, hunting, and cross-country skiing.
If you want to know what the Catskills are like, without actually climbing a mountain, these easy loops are for you.
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More Easy Catskills Hikes
Not ready for mountain hikes? Explore the complete list of Nature Walks — these are far easier to tackle.
And here’s list of family friendly hikes which get your whole clan into nature.
If you’re up for more of a challenge, think about tackling the Catskills Fire Towers — there are now six and all offer exceptional 360° views.
Looking for a bigger challenge? Are you ready to tackle The Catskill 3500 List?
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I would no put Balsam Lake Mountain on the list of easy hikes but I suppose that depends on your definition of easy and the hiker’s conditioning. Certainly the descent on the Beaverkill side can be difficult. The ascent on the Beaverkill side is short but steep. The description of the Balsam Lake hike still include Graham which is now closed.
Both posts updated. Thank you, Ralph!