view of mountains with cloud inversion

Hike Cross Mountain from Woodland Valley

This moderate hike along quiet trail packs a punch: stunning forest, dramatic rock formations, and a spectacular panoramic scenic lookout.

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scenic catskills view

Giant Ledge & Panther & Bushwhack

This classic route to Giant Ledge is a short moderate hike with a huge pay-off: a series of ledge views which are spectacular in all seasons. This is one of the most popular hiking trails in the Catskills.

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cave

Twin from Roaring Kill

Twin from Roaring Kill is one of the most entertaining trails in the Catskills — but it also contains what might be the Catskills’ most challenging trail section.

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via ferrata

The Great Twin Reroute Controversy of 2019

Until the middle of 2019, the trail from Pecoy Notch to the summit of Twin Mountain included a rock ledge that required a semi-technical lift to pass. It epitomized the ruggedness of the Devil’s Path. Then, during the summer, a rock-slide tore the place apart.

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boulder and trail sign

Panther Mountain from Fox Hollow

The hike to Panther Mountain from Fox Hollow offers ever-changing terrain, epic scenic views, and lots of wildlife.

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glacial erratic covered in moss

Hike Romer Mountain & Mount Pleasant

An exceptionally beautiful hiking trail brings you to one of the most spectacular vistas in the Catskills.

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ticetonyk

Ticetonyk Mountain Trail to West View

I figured Ticetonyk was beautifully positioned to have great views — but I had no idea. Ticetonyk’s lookouts are now among my favorites in The Catskills.

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rock ledge and tree

Alander Mountain from Bash Bish Trailhead

This is a great route if you crave solitude among pitch pines, interesting geology, and solid scenic views.

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fishing dock, pond, mountains, trees, catskills

Kenneth L. Wilson State Campground Nature Trail

This kid-friendly nature trail winds through mature hemlock, spruce, and red/white pine woods between Ticetonyk Mountain and Mt Tobias. There are views of Wittenberg and Cornell, and the campground amenities are top notch.

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sunset view

Hike Windham High Peak from Peck Road

One of the easiest Catskill high peaks to hike is also one of the most rewarding — with an enchanted spruce forest, great views of the Blackhead range, and three awesome summit lookouts.

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lake view

Onteora Lake

Half way between Kingston and Woodstock, Onteora Lake is perfect for casual hikers, trail runners, and snowshoers. Three loops of increasing ruggedness allow you to choose your own adventure.

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trees, snow, boulders, moss

Arizona Mountain from Stork’s Nest Road

A quiet, steep and difficult hiking trail that grows more rewarding with every step you climb. It includes one of the truly great views in the Catskills.

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View from Wittenberg

Best Day Hike in the Catskills: Wittenberg, Cornell, Slide

As rugged as I suspected — but more beautiful than I imagined.

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Lost Clove Trailhead

Trail Maintenance, Lost Clove, Fall 2019

Lost Clove is one of the very steepest trails in the Catskill Park. Which is great, if you’re a hill-running lunatic. If you’re me? Not so great. But trail maintenance is rewarding work, and I was really happy to finish the tidy-up I started in May.

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Windham High Peak from Burnt Knob

Windham High Peak via Burnt Knob (with Acra Point)

Hike to Windham High peak through beautiful riparian terrain to a long ridge that’s peppered with amazing views.

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Balsam Cap Canister

Hike Balsam Cap in the Clouds

A direct line from Moonhaw takes you up the shortest possible route to Balsam Cap but be warned: the way is steep. This is a tough Catskill hike.

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