Platte Clove Road is closed (January 2025)

Is Platte Clove Road Open or Closed?

In winter, Platte Clove Road is closed to traffic on its eastern end. Use this alternate route to the eastern Devil’s Path and Kaaterskill High Peak.

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twin mountain scenic view labelled

Peakbagging The Catskills High Peaks (Ultimate Guide)

The most efficient way to climb the Catskills High Peaks is to do as many of them in groups as possible.

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screenshot of hiking gear products

Hiking & Camping Gear List

There’s so much to read and learn about hiking gear. Here’s a basic list of the things you’ll use most often on your day hikes and campouts.

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view of cabin and mountains from tower

Catskills Fire Tower Challenge 2025

Everything you need to know about completing the Catskills Fire Tower Challenge in 2025.

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best hikes near Woodstock NY: catskills sunrise/sunset view

The 7 Best Hikes Near Woodstock NY

The very best hikes near Woodstock, New York. And they’re all family-friendly!

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four of the best hiking boot brands

Best Hiking Boots of 2024

Hot brand information and my recommendations for the best hiking boots right now.

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slide mountain view

Slide Mountain (Best Route)

This loop features an easy ascent, great Catskills views, and a beautiful walk-out that passes through varied woods and terrain.

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hiker welcomes dawn daylight savings all year DST

Ditch the Switch: The Case for Year-Round Daylight Saving Time

Our twice-yearly switch between Daylight Saving Time and standard time is disruptive, damaging, and dangerous. It needs to end.

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Sean Dix Range

Why Turning Around is the Boldest Move

Press on or turn back? This split second decision can be life-altering.

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Israel Wittman Sanctuary, Woodstock, New York

Israel Wittman Sanctuary Hiking Trails

Newly expanded with the addition of Loop C, this sanctuary secures its place as a forever favorite.

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Yellow backpack with the 10 essentials inside

The 10 Essentials: What to Pack for Every Hike

The 10 Essentials is a list of items you should carry on every trip into the backcountry.

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Hiker at Ashokan Quarry Trail

6 Easy Catskills Hikes

Want a deep Catskills experience without the angst of a rigorous mountain hike? These are the hikes for you.

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Vernooy Falls / Wet Willy Swamp

Vernooy Falls Trail Secrets

There’s far more to this trail than most people know…

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Black Fly Header hiking trail

Black Fly Season Means Black Fly Bites

When to watch for black flies, how best to avoid them, how to repel them, and how to treat super-itchy black fly bites.

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brand new hiking boot stuck deep in mud

Walk Through Mud

Here are three great reasons to always walk directly down the middle of every trail, and especially through any mud puddles or water you find on the trail.

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