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.
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.
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.
Catskills Fire Tower Challenge 2025
Everything you need to know about completing the Catskills Fire Tower Challenge in 2025.
Shocking Incident at Kaaterskill Falls
Ice-fall serves as an important reminder about winter hiking safety.
Identify Bobcat vs Coyote Prints in Snow
One of the most exciting things to discover on a winter hike is a set of bobcat or coyote tracks in the snow — but which is which?
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.
Best Hiking Boots of 2024
Hot brand information and my recommendations for the best hiking boots right now.
Wittenberg & Cornell from Woodland Valley
An extremely rewarding hike that includes the infamous Cornell Crack and breathtaking views from both mountains.
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.
Why Turning Around is the Boldest Move
Press on or turn back? This split second decision can be life-altering.
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.
Saugerties Lighthouse Trail
The super sweet and very short Saugerties Lighthouse trail is a huge hit with all ages.
Secret Hike: Waterfall Superhighway
A stunning Catskills “canyon” dotted with multiple gorgeous waterfalls.
Van Wyck to Table & Peekamoose
Two plane wrecks. Two bear holes. Two talus fields. One incredible view.
