The Catskills are not only a hiking destination. Instead, they are an escape into the wild, where misty peaks, hidden waterfalls, and endless forest trails offer adventure. Whether you're a seasoned hiker chasing high peaks or a weekend explorer looking for a scenic day hike, the Catskills hiking list has something for everyone.
However, planning needs the proper knowledge and gear to make the most of your journey. If hiking into the backcountry, a power station like Jackery Portable Power Station ensures you have reliable power for navigation, emergency calls, or a hot meal under the stars. We will reveal some of the best hiking trails in the Catskills, must-have equipment, and tips to help you stay safe and prepared.
Key Takeaways
- The Catskill Mountains in New York offer over 33 hiking trails featuring rugged peaks, waterfalls, dense forests, and stunning viewpoints.
- Must-visit hikes include Devil's Path (one of the most challenging trails in the US), Kaaterskill Falls (a breathtaking two-tiered waterfall), and Overlook Mountain (famous for its fire tower views).
- A sturdy backpack, waterproof boots, layered clothing, a headlamp, a map, and a first-aid kit are must-haves.
- Jackery Portable Power Station ensures you have power for navigation and safety, as well as capturing moments for longer hikes.
- Check trail conditions, carry extra water and snacks, follow Leave No Trace policies, and be prepared for sudden weather changes, which are common in the Catskills.
Hiking in the Catskills Overview
The Catskill Mountains, also known as the Catskills, are a subrange of the Appalachian Mountains in southeastern New York. They are a short drive from the NYC/NJ/CT metro area, the Capital region of New York, northern Pennsylvania, and western Massachusetts and Connecticut. Their scenic beauty, stunning waterfalls, and diverse hiking trails make them a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Catskills hiking trails are characterized by forested slopes, rocky summits, rolling hills, and numerous lakes and streams. They are a great destination for anyone looking to explore the beautiful mountain scenery of Upstate New York. The best time to hike in the Catskills is generally considered to be late spring through early fall (May - October) when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Catskills Hiking List
There are around 33 Catskills high peaks above 3500 feet on the Catskill 3500 Club official list, with the highest being Slide Mountain, topping out at 4180 feet. In order to be a member, you must summit all peaks and complete winter ascents of four specific mountains.
Catskill 3500 Peak Orphans
The Catskill 3500 Peak Orphans are done as singles because they are not readily connected to any other peak. You can complete these hikes with one car as an out and back.
Windham High Peak: The six-mile total out-and-back hike from Peck RD is considered one of the easiest mountain hikes in the Catskills. You can also choose the alternative route from Cross Road, which is even more beautiful.
Slide Mountain: It's a relatively easy 90-minute hike to the summit. Once you reach the top, you will definitely think the tallest Catskill mountain will be easy to climb.
Panther: It's a massive Catskill mountain with several routes to the summit. One popular route from the South is via Giant Ledge. You can also find a much quieter 10-mile out-and-back route via Fox Hollow.
Balsam Lake: This short, easy hike ends with a jaw-dropping 360° panoramic view right from the Balsam Lake Fire Tower.
Halcott: It is another of the untrailed bushwhack mountains, and it is considered to be a short but very steep hike. If you want to practice your non-digital map-and-compass skills, you can consider giving Halcott a try.
Rusk: It is yet another steep and untrailed/bushwhack peak. Those who prefer longer hikes in the Catskills often combine Rusk with Hunter and Southwest Hunter.
Kaaterskill High Peak: It has several trailed routes that lead to the base of the summit on either the north or south side. Then, you can follow the herd path to the top to enjoy a long, steep, but exceptionally rich Catskill hike.
Catskill 3500 Pairs
Here are the Catskill 3500 Pairs that can be done with one car as an out and back.
Vly & Bearpen: These are the two easiest mountains to climb in the Catskills. While Vly is technically a bushwhack, the clear DEC property boundary leads to the summit.
Table & Peekamoose: You can either hike in from Denning for a beautiful moderate hike or from the South for a way more elevation hike.
Balsam & Eagle: When you do Balsam from the Rider Hollow, it brings you through some of the most beautiful and picturesque terrain in the Catskills.
Big Indian & Fir: They have beautiful terrains with many pretty stream crossings.
Hunter & Southwest Hunter: They are so big that bagging both peaks requires legwork.
Indian Head & Twin: The two-peak hike is one of the most beautiful Catskills 3500 Pairs. You can follow the Devil's Path up the east side of Indian Head, followed by crossing over to Twin and coming back down to Perdiger Rd via Jimmy Dolan Notch.
Sugarloaf & Plateau: From Mink Hollow, you can follow either of the two paths: choose the long, sketchy ascent to Sugarloaf or the relentlessly steep ascent up Plateau.
North Dome & MT Sherrill: These are the two bushwhack mountains with various routes from North, East, and West. You will have to either add some road walk to form a loop or re-do one of the way back out.
Wittenberg & Cornell: The combination is a wonderful out-and-back hike offering the best view in the Catskills and Cornell Crack.
Catskill 3500 Triplets
Here are the two Catskill 3500 Triplets you can try:
Rusk > Hunter > Southwest Hunter: Once you are done with the boring Rusk, go for East Rusk to add some excellent pine and moss terrain and loop around Hunter's massive flanks to complete a rugged section of the Devil Path.
Blackhead > Black Dome > Thomas Cole: The Blackhead range can be hiked via two different routes from the North via Big Hollow. Alternatively, you can go from the West as an out-and-back hike from Barnum Road.
Big Catskills Days
You will need two cars for Big Catskills Days as they are big multi-peak hikes.
- Rusk > Hunter > Southwest Hunter > West Kill
- Eastern Devil's Path > Indian Head > Twin > Sugarloaf > Plateau
- Slide > Cornell > Wittenberg
- The Six: Friday > Balsam Cap > Rocky > Lone > Table > Peekamoose
Download the Catskills Hiking List PDF Here
How to Prepare for Your Catskill Hiking
Preparing well for a Catskills hiking or trekking trip can make all the difference between a good hike and an unforgettable one. Here are some tips on how to prepare for day hikes and multi-day treks.
What to Wear
Choosing the wrong shoes can lead to sore feet, and heavy pants can be uncomfortable on a hot day. The best pants to wear for solo hiking in the Catskills are breathable and will keep you warm or cool, depending on the temperature. In winter, the trick is to wear layers to stay warm. For example, you can put on leggings beneath hiking pants to stay dry and comfortable.
In summer, avoid shorts and wear lightweight pants to protect yourself against bug bites or skin irritation. In addition, make sure to wear wool or synthetic socks for protection from insects and blisters. Ensure the boots fit snugly around the ball of the foot. It's important to always break in new shoes before heading on a hike.
What to Take
You will be carrying everything with you during the hike, so it has to be lighter and better. Here is the Catskills hiking essential list that you can use as a packing guide:
- Navigation Tools: Carry a map, compass, or GPS for your hiking trip. These will help you know where you are and find campsites, water sources, rest areas, and emergency exits.
- Adequate Food and Water: Adequate food and water are the essential items on your hiking gear list. Hydrate yourself throughout the trip and bring extra snacks to enjoy long moments near a mountain stream.
- Clothing and Rain Protection: You cannot predict a rain shower or storm but can always prepare for surprises. Consider dressing in layers or packing a lightweight poncho so you can easily adjust to temperatures.
- Safety Items: Always include a firestarter, whistle, and flashlight in the safety kit to remain prepared for any situation. For instance, a fire can signal for help, a whistle lets you call for help, and a flashlight guides you in the dark.
- First Aid Kit: You should build a personalized first aid kit with blister treatment, tape, antibiotic ointment, bandages, gauze pads, or other medications.
- Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen to protect the sun from sunburn and UV radiation and sunglasses to shield your eyes.
- Power: Since you will carry essential electronic items such as cellphones, electric blankets, GPS devices, headlamps, and cameras, you will need a reliable Jackery Portable Power Station. These power stations can fit into the backpack and power essential appliances anywhere you hike.
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Trash Bag: Carry a trash bag to keep the trash away from the beautiful trails. It's essential to follow Leave No Trace policies so you can keep the trails clean.
How to Exercise
You should start training 8 weeks before the first long hike. For a quick warm-up, start with a 5 - 10 minute brisk walk.
- Jump Squats: They provide an excellent all-around workout for lower body and leg muscles. Do jump squats 15 - 20 times.
- Hip Roll: The exercise works the glutes and other muscles supporting the hips to improve endurance and stability.
- Step-Up Exercise: The exercise builds endurance and strength in the glutes and quad muscles. It will help you handle whatever obstacles you will encounter along the trail.
Best Catskills Hikes
Catskills offers many hiking trails closer to the city, allowing visitors to experience the wooden paths, cascading waterfalls, and bubbling streams in Greene County.
Ashley Falls
- Hiking Length: 1 mile
- Hiking Difficulty: Moderate
- Type of Hike: Out and back
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 300 from Rt 23A
Ashley Falls is a scenic waterfall located in the North-South Lake campground. It is easily reached via the Mary Glen Trail. You can find the trailhead parking along the campground road on the left as you travel towards the North Lake.
Bastion Falls
- Hiking Length: 0.5 miles
- Hiking Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Type of Hike: Round
- Elevation Gain/Loss: Minimal
Bastion Falls is the trailhead to Kaaterskill Falls, which is located in Haines Falls along Route 23A. It is one of the most popular hiking trails in the Catskills. It is ideal for beginner hikers and won't take more than 30 minutes.
Diamond Notch Falls
- Hiking Length: 1.7 - 4 miles
- Hiking Difficulty: Easy
- Type of Hike: Loop
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 1387 feet
The Diamond Notch Falls hike in Catskill State Park, New York, is a beautiful loop hike that is beginner-friendly and can help you improve your hiking skills. The Diamond Notch Falls via Spruceton Road trail is 1.7 miles, whereas it is a 4-mile hike via Diamond Notch Road Trail.
RamsHorn Livingston Sanctuary Trail
- Hiking Length: 2.1 - 3.5 miles
- Hiking Difficulty: Easy
- Type of Hike: Loop
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 121 feet
If you love a birding spot, you should definitely try the easiest RamsHorn Livingston Sanctuary Trail. You can find the dedicated viewing tower for elevated vantage points to observe birds and other wildlife. It is generally less crowded compared to other outdoor areas.
Mountain Top Arboretum Loop Trail
- Hiking Length: 2.6 mile
- Hiking Difficulty: Easy
- Type of Hike: Loop
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 298 feet
Mountain Top Arboretum Loop Trail offers a leisurely hike through a diverse collection of native and exotic trees and plants. It is set in the scenic Catskill Mountains, which makes it an excellent spot for nature lovers. You can observe various plant life, birdwatching, and enjoy the beautiful mountain views.
Hunter Mountain Fire Tower
- Hiking Length: 8.2 miles
- Hiking Difficulty: Hard
- Type of Hike: Loop
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 1898 feet
The Hunter Mountain Fire Tower is one of the most challenging treks in the Catskills Park. When you ascend the fire tower, you take in the spectacular scene of three states: Massachusetts, Vermont, and Connecticut. While descending, you can continue another 3.5 miles on Hunter Mountain Loop to get a picturesque camping night at the John Robb Lean-to.
Pratt Rock Trail
- Hiking Length: 1.3 - 1.9 miles
- Hiking Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Type of Hike: Round
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 900 feet
The short round trip is perfect for beginners and offers a spectacular view of the surrounding valley from several points along the trail. It is often referred to as New York's Mount Rushmore.
Devil's Path
- Hiking Length: 24 miles
- Hiking Difficulty: Difficult
- Type of Hike: Point to Point
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 9000 feet
Devil's Path is a point-to-point hiking trail in Greene County, New York that is considered technical and challenging. Despite the difficulty, it offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Catskill Mountains. On this trail, you can reach the summits of multiple Catskill High Peaks, including West Kill, Hunter, Plateau, Sugarloaf, Twin, and Indian Head.
Catskill Mountain House Overlook Trail
- Hiking Length: 0.5 miles
- Hiking Difficulty: Easy
- Type of Hike: Out and Back
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 1400 feet
The Catskill Mountain House Overlook Trail is one of the top hiking destinations in Catskills Mountain of New York. It is popular because of its views, fire tower, and historic ruins. The views from the fire tower are exceptional at any time of day, but sunrise is especially magical. The fire tower offers views of the Hudson River Valley and the central Catskills.
Kaaterskill Falls
- Hiking Length: 1.6 miles
- Hiking Difficulty: Easy to Difficult
- Type of Hike: Round
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 577 feet
Kaaterskill Falls is one of the most famous and New York's tallest cascades. You can head to the Upper Falls observation deck for a quick and family-friendly stroll. You can also take a strenuous 200-stair descent to the lower fall's base, followed by scrambling over river rocks until you find a sturdy platform.
Jackery Portable Power Stations for Hiking
A power station ensures your GPS, phone, headlamp, or camera stays powered, so you don't have to worry about running out of battery when you need it most. Whether you're checking maps, making an emergency call, or simply taking photos of breathtaking views, a reliable power supply can make all the difference.
Jackery is a trusted leader in manufacturing solar generators, portable power stations, and foldable solar panels, ensuring access to power anywhere you go. Jackery Portable Power Station is a compact, rechargeable battery pack designed to power your devices anywhere—whether deep in the Catskills or set up camp by a lake.
Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station
For hikers who love to travel light but still need dependable power, the Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station is an ideal companion. This power station is designed for single-day hikes and short outdoor excursions, offering enough power to keep your essentials powered without adding unnecessary weight to your pack. It's ideal for keeping your phone, smartwatch, or headlamp running, ensuring you stay connected even in remote areas.
Appliances Running Time
- Smartphone (50W) = 1.5H
- Tablet or E-Reader (50W) = 1.5H
- Walkie-Talkies (30W) = 2.6H
- Rechargeable Headlamp (20W) = 3.9H
- Handheld Fan (50W) = 1.5H
Kindly note that the values are just estimates and may vary from actual runtimes.
Customer Review
"I have enjoyed having the Explore 100 to recharge my small devices that have a USB-C or a USB-A. I like that I can easily take the Explore 100 on trips or to locations to recharge small devices. No power outlet or extension cord(s) is needed to get the recharging done." — Wayne Patrick.
Jackery Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station
The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station offers power without sacrificing portability for multi-day treks or more demanding outdoor activities. It is designed for hikers and campers who need to keep multiple devices powered over extended periods. Whether you're using GPS for backcountry navigation, powering a heated blanket for chilly nights, or even running a small cooler for fresh food, this compact power station has you covered.
Appliances Running Time
- Portable Water Purifier (100W) = 2.3H
- Portable Speaker (100W) = 2.3H
- Heated Blanket (200W) = 1.1H
- Small Cooler (150W) = 1.5H
- GPS Device (100W) = 2.3H
Customer Review
"This is what I was waiting for from Jackery. As an avid outdoor person, me and my family value the comfort of having electricity while camping. We love this device." — Ramon Lugo.
Tips for Hiking in the Catskills
There are many high peaks in the Catskills with summits above 3500 feet. However, before heading out for hiking in the Catskills, you must be prepared and have the right gear to improve safety. Here are a few tips for hiking in the Catskills:
Be Prepared
Every month, people get into trouble in the Catskills, almost always because they are underprepared. The Catskills Park is not enormous, but areas are stamped with wilderness for a reason.
Catskills Wilderness
Cell coverage is often spotty in the Catskills. Hence, it's crucial to arrive fully prepared, so you don't put yourself or the lives of volunteers at risk. This is especially true in winter, though it's not much less true in other seasons.
Bear Safety Tips
Bears in the Catskills usually come out of hibernation around mid-March. Therefore, it is strongly encouraged that homeowners take in bird feeders and secure all trash in a bear-proof container or indoors.
Other Things to Do in the Catskills
There are a lot of things you need to do in Catskills besides the hiking trails.
Off-Mountain Winter Activities
If you don't love downhill skiing or snowboarding but wish to enjoy winter fun, you can try many off-mountain winter activities in the Catskills. From snowshoeing to cross-country skiing, the Great Northern Catskills lets you embrace the best of winter.
Camping
Camping in the Catskills provides peaceful sleep under the stars, where you can immerse yourself in nature. If you think camping with family and friends under the sky is something you would like to try, consider camping in the Catskills.
Skiing
Catskill is home to New York's best ski resorts, Windham Mountain and Hunter Mountain, making it the perfect place to escape for a snowboarding or downhill ski vacation. The mountains cater to beginners and experienced skiers, offering a sense of fun and adventure.
Hiking in the Catskills FAQs
How big of a portable power station do I need for my hiking trip?
The size of the portable power station for hiking trips will depend on the total wattage of the appliances you are planning to power and for how long. For example, if you want to power your camera (10W) with the Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station, go to the product page and scroll down to find the Running Time Calculator/Simulator. Enter the appliance wattage to get the estimated running time, which is 7.9 hours for a 9W camera. However, these values are only for reference purposes and may vary from actual runtimes.
What is the most beautiful hike in the Catskills?
Giant Ledge offers the best views in the Catskills. It is a moderate out-and-back hike with huge payoffs. It provides multiple scenic overlooks that will leave you amazed.
How difficult is a hike to Kaaterskill Falls?
Kaaterskill Falls is an out-and-back trail near Haines Falls, New York, and is generally considered a challenging route. The hike usually takes around 54 minutes.
What is so special about the Catskill Mountains?
The Catskills Mountains offer many breathtaking attractions, such as scenic vistas and cascading waterfalls. They are also famous for their diverse hiking trails, New York's best ski resorts, rock climbing, and water activities.
What is the hardest trail in the Catskills?
The Devil's Path is considered the most challenging trail in the Catskills and is also known as one of the most dangerous and challenging hikes in the Eastern United States. It is a 24-mile long hike with an elevation gain of 9000 feet.
Final Thoughts
A successful Catskills hike isn't just about reaching the summit. With the right hiking trails from the Catskills hiking list, a well-packed backpack, and a few expert tips up your sleeve, you'll be ready for an unforgettable adventure. Don't forget to check trail conditions, respect the Leave No Trace principles, and bring essentials like maps, extra layers, and plenty of water. For longer treks or overnight trips in remote locations, having a Jackery Portable Power Station means you won't have to worry about losing power anytime and anywhere.
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