The Catskill Mountains rise just 100 miles northwest of New York City—close enough for a day trip, wild enough to feel like true wilderness. These ancient mountains once harbored the painters who founded the Hudson River School; today, they draw hikers to 98 named peaks, including 35 that rise above 3,500 feet.
While the Catskills lack the Adirondacks' height (Slide Mountain, the highest, reaches only 4,180 feet), they compensate with steep terrain, old-growth forest, dramatic waterfalls, and trails that feel surprisingly remote given their proximity to the largest city in the country.
Top Hikes
Slide Mountain (Highest Peak)
- Distance: 6.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,800 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
The highest Catskill peak at 4,180 feet offers a straightforward climb through old-growth forest. The summit is mostly wooded, but viewpoints along the way reveal the surrounding mountains. A must-do for any Catskill list.
Kaaterskill Falls
- Distance: 1.4 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 400 feet
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
At 260 feet total (two drops), Kaaterskill Falls is one of New York's tallest waterfalls. The short hike leads to a spectacular viewpoint. This is the most visited site in the Catskills—arrive very early on weekends.
Devil's Path
- Distance: 25 miles end-to-end
- Difficulty: Very Strenuous
Considered one of the most difficult trails in the Northeast, the Devil's Path traverses several major peaks with brutal elevation changes. Most hikers tackle sections rather than the full route.
Blackhead Range
- Distance: 7.5 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: 2,500 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
Three peaks (Blackhead, Black Dome, Thomas Cole) in a single loop, with some of the best views in the Catskills.
The Catskill 3500 Club
For peak-baggers, the Catskill 3500 Club maintains a list of 35 peaks over 3,500 feet—33 with maintained trails, 4 trail-less. Completing all 35 (plus winter ascents of specific peaks) earns club membership.
The Peaks
Highlights include:
- Slide Mountain: Highest at 4,180 ft
- Hunter Mountain: Second highest, with a fire tower
- Blackhead Mountain: Dramatic views
- Panther Mountain: Massive presence
- Twin Mountain: Trail-less challenge
The trail-less peaks require bushwhacking skills and map reading—a different experience from maintained trails.
Planning Your Visit
When to Hike
- Spring: Waterfalls at peak flow; trails can be muddy
- Summer: Full access; humidity can be high
- Fall: Spectacular foliage; peak crowds
- Winter: Beautiful snowshoeing; peaks can require crampons
Access
Major trailheads include:
- Slide Mountain Parking (for the highest peak)
- North-South Lake (for many northern trails)
- Kaaterskill Falls parking (extremely limited)
Regulations
- Day-use fees at some trailheads
- Camping restrictions in the Forest Preserve
- Some areas closed for restoration
Beyond the Peaks
The Catskills offer more than just summits:
Waterfalls
- Kaaterskill Falls (260 feet)
- Plattekill Falls
- Diamond Notch Falls
- Buttermilk Falls
Swimming Holes
The Catskills are famous for swimming holes in their clear mountain streams. Peekamoose Blue Hole is the most famous (and now reservation-required due to overuse).
Scenic Drives
Route 23A through Kaaterskill Clove is one of the most dramatic mountain roads in the East.
Practical Information
Getting There
The Catskills are approximately:
- 2 hours from New York City
- 2.5 hours from Albany
- 3.5 hours from Philadelphia
Several bus services connect NYC to trailheads for car-free visitors.
Lodging
Options range from campgrounds within the Forest Preserve to bed & breakfasts and full resorts in the surrounding towns.
Best Towns for Hikers
- Phoenicia: central location, good restaurants
- Tannersville: near northern trails
- Woodstock: famous vibes, slightly farther from trails
Quick Reference
| Hike | Distance | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slide Mountain | 6.0 mi | Moderate | Highpointers |
| Kaaterskill Falls | 1.4 mi | Easy-Mod | Waterfalls |
| Blackhead Range | 7.5 mi | Strenuous | Views |
| Devil's Path | 25 mi | V. Strenuous | Challenge |
The Catskills offer a mountain experience surprisingly close to the nation's largest city—real wilderness with challenging terrain, beautiful scenery, and a rich history. Whether you're escaping Manhattan for a day hike or working through the 35, these ancient mountains reward every visit.
