Rattlesnakes
While certain parts of the Catskills are notorious for rattlesnake sightings — think Mount Tremper and Overlook— they can be found anywhere in the Catskills.
They are also very common in the Taconics. And there are several mountains infamous for rattlers in the Hudson Highlands.
Where are the Rattlesnakes?
Rattlers tend to start coming out of hibernation in late April and May, as the days warm up. (We have Copperheads here, too. They’re less common and generally less deadly, but don’t be an idiot.) Many people avoid rattler terrain May through November.
The hikes listed below are places where you’re most likely to come across rattlesnakes. However, from April onwards, you need to be aware of their potential presence anywhere.
Here are some of the locations where rattlesnakes are known to be…
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.
Rattlesnakes in the Catskills: A Hiker’s Guide
Everything you need to know about rattlesnakes in the Catskills.
Secret Hike: Gunks in the Cats
A true bushwhack to a surprisingly Gunks-like patch in the heart of The Catskills.
Vernooy Falls Trail: Waterfalls & Mill Ruins
The delightful Vernooy Falls hiking trail leads to one of the funnest spots in The Catskills.
Race Brook Falls & Mount Everett
This rugged route passes along the bottom of Race Brook Falls, then climbs through beautiful forest to a scenic lookout beyond the summit of Mount Everett.
Schunemunk Mountain Loop
The terrain is the star on this mostly moderate hike over Schunemunk’s two ridges. This long, challenging route includes the base of Moodna Viaduct, The Megaliths, and excellent views.
Backcountry Campout in the Catskills — First Experience
Having never camped out before, and certainly never in the backcountry, I researched for weeks, pulled the necessary kit together, and finally screwed up enough courage to solo camp overnight in the wilderness.
Tremper Mountain Fire Tower Classic Hike
Tremper Mountain Fire Tower offers incredible 360° views of dozens of classic Catskill mountains.
Alander from Bash Bish
This is a great hike if you crave solitude among mountain laurel and pitch pines, as well as interesting geology — but also enjoy solid scenic views! The parking area is the same lot used by visitors to Bash Bish Falls.
Tanbark Trail (Phoenicia)
A short, steep, rocky intense hike right in the heart of Phoenicia. Lots of dramatic Catskills geology. Two excellent views.
Hike from Platte Clove to Plattekill to Echo Lake
This hike is mostly very easy, with about 75% on well-marked trail. However, the bushwhack to the scenic lookout on the south side of Plattekill is extremely difficult, and presents some dangers.
