Hiking the New York’s Catskills in winter is a magical experience that will stay with you. The rolling white mountains of the region are packed with miles of hiking trails. In the winter the region is filled with cross-country and downhill skiers. Here we list some of the interesting trails and a few tips to stay safe and warm during winter hikes.
Hiking Trails
The Catskills are home to beautiful tree-lined trails, perfect for any outdoor explorer. Explore approximately 40 miles of trails, including 15 miles that are just for hiking, in Willowemoc Wild Forest. Find bird’s eye views of the surrounding Catskill Mountains and the Hudson Valley from Windham High Peak.
Blackhead Mountain (3,940 feet) is one of the Catskill 3500 Club‘s four required winter hikes. As winter lays siege to Blackhead’s upper reaches, the steep eastern ledges grow dense with thick, accumulated ice. The terrain is generally moderate and enjoyable, but this hike is all about the views.
Slide Mountain is the tallest peak in the Catskills and, together with Hunter Mountain, complete the region’s contribution to the NE115 list. A 6.6-mile loop hike linking the Curtis–Ormsbee and Wittenberg–Cornell–Slide Trails is one of the best short hikes in the catskills.
Balsam Mountain (3,600 feet) is the shortest and most westerly of the notable trails. The summit itself is viewless, but a little ledge just to the north offers an outstanding easterly view. Despite its generally moderate grades, winter on Balsam presents would-be summiteers with yet another unique seasonal challenge: water crossings.
Graham Mountain is the seventh highest peak in the Catskills. North Point is a great choice for a short hike excellent views of the surrounding country. The Dry Brook Ridge Trail is a slightly longer walk, but the 1,100 feet of elevation gain is only half what you’ll face to surmount Hunter.
Beaverkill Valley Inn has 19 guest rooms, gourmet farm-to-table cuisine, a winter ice skating rink, a heated indoor pool, and miles of fantastic winter trails. Giant Ledge is a moderately difficult hike, but the views are worth it! Willowemoc Wild Forest is pretty close to the Inn, right near Livingston Manor.
Tips
The Catskill Center offers some helpful winter hiking tips. And we added a few to get you a comprehensive tips to stay warm and safe.
- The number one rule for winter hiking is to dress in layers. It’s easier to take a layer off than to stay warm without one.
- Carry insulating layers, including a spare set of long underwear tops and bottoms. Put on fresh, dry clothes mid-hike to shock the system initially, but you will feel warmer quickly.
- Do your research and know the trail ahead of time.
- Don’t forget to sign in at trailheads on state land, let someone know when and where you’ll be hiking.
- Expert winter hikers recommend bringing your food already cut up, as it can freeze during the winter, and carrying it in your pockets to keep it warmer. If it’s your first winter hike, start with a shorter hike, then work your way up.
- Stay hydrated. Take sips of water regularly.
Read about all the winter activities in our post here.
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