Overlook Mountain from Platte Clove

Overlook Mountain from Platte Clove

A deeply lovely route through some of the Catskills’ most beautiful terrain.

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pre-dawn mountain ridges

Overlook Mountain Trail

You can hike up Overlook Mountain’s easy trail in about an hour. The fire tower at the end of this short trail is positioned to give one of the most dramatic views in the Catskills.

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photo of fire tower at Hadley Mountain

Hadley Mountain Fire Tower

Delightful trails and gorgeous views. Hadley Mountain Fire Tower has a lot you’ll love.

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View north from Mount Beacon Fire Tower

Mount Beacon Fire Tower via Casino Trail

The short and very scenic route to Mount Beacon’s Fire Tower.

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pink flag delineating new route up Stissing Mountain from Thompson Pond

Stissing Mountain: New Trail from Thompson Pond

A super fun new route (currently under construction) up a steep rugged side of Stissing Mountain.

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Stissing Mountain seen from a distance at sunset

Stissing Mountain Fire Tower (Classic Trail)

A short, sharp huffer-hike to a very tall fire tower with amazing views of the Catskills and Taconics.

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view from balsam lake fire tower of balsam forest below

Balsam Lake Fire Tower (updated)

Incredible 360° wilderness views make this hike spectacular at any time of year.

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fire tower shot from below

Catskills Fire Tower Challenge 2023

Everything you need to complete the Catskills Fire Tower Challenge.

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hiker with extended arms welcomes the sun from a mountain ledge

How to Plan Your First Sunrise Hike

What to bring, when to go, what to expect. Everything you need to know.

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Ashokan Rail Trail scenic water view

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.

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blue trail blaze affixed to tree near stone steps

Red Hill Fire Tower from Denning

This new route to Red Hill Fire Tower is a little longer and tougher than the classic route, but so much sweeter.

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sunset over mountain peaks

Shop @TotalCatskills Prints

Many of my best photos are now for sale, framed, via an exclusive deal with KeepsakeFrames that entitles you to 15% off 5 frames!

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sunset view from Tremper Mountain fire tower

Tremper Mountain Fire Tower from Willow

A much quieter and more interesting route to Tremper Mountain Fire Tower

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fire tower shot from below

Bramley Mountain Fire Tower (Kaatscast)

At Bramley Mountain, in the western Catskills, the fire tower was dismantled in the 1970s, but a local family has been keeping it safe in a nearby barn…

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cabin in snow on mountain summit

Hunter Mountain Fire Tower (Best Route)

This moderate and very scenic hike can be completed in 4-5 hrs. This is the easiest route to climb Hunter Mountain.

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view of cabin and mountains from tower

Hunter Mountain (Loop)

Hike over Hunter’s massive, gorgeous and super-scenic summit to descend via the Devil’s Path for a rugged walk-out — with a short side-quest to Southwest Hunter.

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