Winter Wonderland

Winter is in full swing and so are our winter blues! Now more than ever it is important to go outside, get fresh air, and enjoy the beauty of the Great Western Catskills. It can be easy to bundle up and sip tea, but how much more rewarding is it once you have ventured into a snowy wonderland? We’ve collected a list of hikes that are enjoyable and accessible in the winter snow.

Photo by Lisa Wisely

Bear Spring Mountain Wildlife Management Area
Trailhead Location: Trout Brook Road and West Trout Brook Road, Downsville, NY. Parking lots found along either side of the road.
Hike Length: There are many trails in this park. Follow this link for details on each.

This maintained land of 7,000 acres is home to 11 miles of hiking that is accessible year round. Seating in the towns of Walton, Colchester, and Hancock, there are many easy trails to choose from. Follow the link to find the trails you’d like to explore with your family.

Palmer Hill Trail 
Trailhead Location: Finkle Road, off State Route 28, Andes, NY
Hike Length: 1.6 miles or 2.1 with a total of 3.1 miles of trail

This trail is on an old farmstead and offers two looping trials, is accessible for the whole family and has a stunning view.

Andes Rail Trail
Trailhead Location: 266 Depot Street (aka Cabin Hill Road/County Route 2), Andes, NY
Hike Length: 1.8 miles (out-and-back)

A trail perfect for walking, snowshoeing or cross country skiing, this old railroad route is perfect for a adventure in the snow.

Photo by Joseph Damone

Catskill Scenic Trail
Trailhead Location: Beginning at State Route 10 at Feed Store Road (Bloomville, NY) and State Route 30 at Hardscrabble Road (Roxbury, NY).
Hike Length: 26 miles

This beautiful, retired railroad route is a perfect trail for hiking, snowshoeing and cross country skiing. You can decide how long you’d like to hike on this long route that goes through many Catskill Mountain towns.