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.
Catskills Fire Tower Challenge 2024
Everything you need to complete the Catskills Fire Tower Challenge.
Wittenberg & Cornell from Woodland Valley
An extremely rewarding hike that includes the infamous Cornell Crack and breathtaking views from both mountains.
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.
Slide Mountain (Best Route, Updated)
This loop features an easy ascent, great Catskills views, and a beautiful walk-out that passes through varied woods and terrain.
Best Hiking Boots of 2023
Hot brand information and my recommendations for the best hiking boots right now.
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 (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.
