Information
Landmark: Catskill Scenic TrailCity: Catskills
Country: USA New York
Continent: North America
Catskill Scenic Trail, Catskills, USA New York, North America
Overview
The Catskill Scenic Trail stretches 26 miles through Delaware County, New York, inviting walkers, cyclists, and even horseback riders along its former rail line.It traces the old Ulster and Delaware Railroad corridor, winding gently through the Catskills on a mostly flat path where pine-scented air drifts across wide, open views.People flock to the trail for all kinds of adventures-hiking through pine-scented air, pedaling past quiet creeks, riding horseback, gliding on skis, or revving a snowmobile across fresh powder.The trail runs about 26 miles (41 km), stretching from Bloomville along Route 10 in the southwest to Roxbury on Route 30 in the northeast, passing fields and old barns along the way.Along the trail, you’ll wander through small towns and quiet hamlets-places like Stamford, where church bells echo down Main Street, and Grand Gorge.The trail winds along the soft curves of the old railroad bed, with barely a rise or dip, so it’s easy for walkers, runners, and cyclists alike.The surface is a patchwork of crushed stone, loose gravel, dusty dirt, and strips of green grass.Depending on the weather and upkeep, some spots can turn muddy or feel rough underfoot.The trail offers a calm, inviting setting-open fields dotted with wildflowers, shady stretches beneath tall oaks, and glimpses of the river-ideal for an easy stroll or a long, satisfying hike.Biking works best with a mountain or hybrid bike, since the trail shifts from gravel to packed dirt.You’ll need decent bike-handling skills to navigate a few rough spots and muddy stretches, like where the trail dips through a slick patch of clay.Cyclists should look up trail conditions before heading out, even if it’s just to see if yesterday’s rain left muddy patches.Horseback riding’s welcome here-the trail winds through open fields where you might catch the scent of wild sage.Riders need to watch for rough or muddy patches on the trail and make sure they give hikers and cyclists plenty of space.In winter, when the trail’s covered in fresh snow, some stretches turn into routes for cross-country skiers and roaring snowmobiles.In winter, trail conditions shift with the snowfall and how well they’re groomed-one day packed and smooth, the next buried under fresh powder.Much of the trail winds through rolling farmland and open fields, where you can see the Catskills stretched out under a wide, hazy blue sky.Some stretches follow the West Branch of the Delaware River, where calm water glints in the sun and herons drift silently along the banks.Forested areas offer cool, shaded paths where birds flit through the leaves, making them prime spots to watch migrations in spring and fall.Wildlife thrives along the trail, from shy deer stepping through the underbrush to bobcats slipping between shadows, and more than a hundred kinds of birds-all a draw for nature lovers and photographers.You can start the trail at several main access points with parking and clear trailhead signs, like the southwest terminus in Bloomville, just off Route 10 near the quiet little town.Stamford-right by the old brick train depot-sits at the corner of Railroad Avenue and South Street.Grand Gorge sits just off Route 30-take Ferris Hill Road heading south, past the weathered red barn at the edge of town.Roxbury, the northeast end of the line, sits on Route 30 at the foot of Hardscrabble Road, where the pavement narrows by a weathered wooden fence.You’ll usually find parking at each access point, and along the way, octagonal signs tell you how far it is to the next trailhead.The trail’s surface shifts from loose gravel to rough stone, then to patches of packed dirt, so watch your step.After a heavy rain or the spring thaw, certain spots can turn to slick, brown mud.In spring and early summer, thick greenery can swallow parts of the trail, leaves brushing against your shoulders as you pass.Fall’s the perfect time to take in the leaves, crisp air swirling as the maples blaze red and gold.Winter use hinges on the snow-deep drifts make it possible, icy patches can shut it down.Wildlife and safety matter-keep an eye out for ticks clinging to grass and mosquitoes buzzing in the warm air.Keep an eye out for wildlife, but don’t get too close-you should be able to hear the rustle of leaves without disturbing what’s making it.The trail has only a few restrooms, and you won’t find any food stands or cafés along the way.You’ll find shops, cafés, and other conveniences just a short drive away in the neighboring towns.Signs will point you in the right direction, but it’s smart to pack a paper map or download a GPS trail guide-especially if you’re heading out for a long trek through the pines.Plan your trip for late spring through early fall if you want to hike dusty trails, bike under bright skies, or ride horseback among blooming meadows; in winter, come for cross-country skiing or snowmobiling when the snow’s deep enough.Pack water, a few snacks, sturdy shoes, and insect repellent, and make sure you’re dressed for whatever the weather throws at you-even if it’s a sudden chill in the air.You’ll find detailed maps and up‑to‑date trail conditions on the official Catskill Scenic Trail website or at local visitor centers, where the paper maps still smell faintly of fresh ink.Winding through quiet fields and gentle hills, the Catskill Scenic Trail gives visitors a peaceful, flexible way to enjoy the Catskills’ natural beauty any time of year without wearing themselves out.
