Winter
Winter mountain hikes are spectacular: snow-blasted forests, bleached valley views, and bright blue skies. The days are shorter, the nights are longer — and the temperature is lethal. Make sure you have the best winter hiking info…
Before heading out, please review Winter Hiking Essentials, Survive & Thrive in the Cold and Winter Gear Checklist.
This list of Best Winter Hiking Tips will help keep you safe in the harshest conditions.
Secret Hike: Waterfall Superhighway
A stunning Catskills “canyon” dotted with multiple gorgeous waterfalls.
Van Wyck to Table & Peekamoose (updated)
Two plane wrecks. Two bear holes. Two talus fields. One incredible view.
Diamond Notch Falls via Diamond Notch Road
This excellent alternate route to Diamond Notch Falls is moderately challenging with a great scenic view.
Rescue on Suicide Mountain in The Catskills
Underscoring the difficulty of hiking Sugarloaf Mountain’s western approach in winter, a hiker was debilitated by an ankle injury, kicking off a complex dozen-Ranger rescue mission.
10 Ways to Be a Better Winter Hiker
Winter hiking can be a wonderful and rewarding experience, but it presents specific challenges. The following tips will help you become a safe and successful winter hiker.
Sunset Rock Trail (Taconics)
A short rugged, riparian hike to Sunset Rock, a stunning Taconic scenic spot.
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.
Sugarloaf in Winter (Safest Route)
A beautiful hike to one of the grandest of Catskills high peaks.
Catskills Fire Tower Challenge 2023
Everything you need to complete the Catskills Fire Tower Challenge.
Best Hiking Boots & Brands
If you’re looking for a new pair of hiking boots, this list of hiking boot brands and models will get you started with great recommendations.
How to Identify Bear Tracks in Snow
It’s so exciting to identify bear tracks in snow. A clean bear print is an impressive thing, always a thrill to see.
How to Winter Hike: The Essential Roundup
If you’ve never hiked in winter, this is a great page to get started on your winter hike journey.
Platte Clove Road Winter Access
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.
Acra Point & Batavia Kill Loop with Burnt Knob Lookout
Acra Point & Burnt Knob is one of the most beautiful hikes in The Catskills. Gorgeous trails for miles, plus two amazing lookouts.
12 Life-Changing Benefits of Winter Hiking
Are you willing to give up outdoor life for months on end? The hell you are. The benefits of winter hiking far outweigh the risks of staying inside for months on end.
27 Unbeatable Winter Hiking Tips
Hate the coldest season? With a little extra gear and prep, and these winter hiking tips, you can stay warm and dry and hike into the wilderness for an incredible adventure.
