5 minute read
Rail Trails in the Catskills
By Eliza Schwartz
Reconnect with nature this summer by exploring the various rail trails in the Catskill Region. What was once known the “most scenic rail line in the east” became a series of different hiking trails leading to gorgeous views of the Catskills. The hiking trails, otherwise known as rail trails, were once a complex rail line. Connecting Rondout (which is now a part of Kingston) to the Delaware and Hudson Canal which would then connect to the Albany and Susquehanna Railroad. As highways became common use, railroad traffic declined rapidly, rendering the Catskill Mountain Railroad and the Catskill and Tannersville railway useless and therefore abandoned. In an effort to remember a vital part of history, these railroads have been converted into rail trails, allowing people to immerse themselves in both nature and history with these 6 plus trails.
One adventure is through the Andes Rail Trail. A 2-mile trail, round trip, that is home to impressive views of the mountains, creeks, ceaseless fields, woodlands and remnants of the railroad. This trail begins in the town of Andes, specifically at the Andes train depot and ends at the Bullet Hole Creek seamlessly connecting to another, more challenging, hike, the Bullet Hole Spur. The Andes trail is made up of grass and dirt, and is accessible for people of any age. The hike is mostly flat, it is a relaxing way to get outside and enjoy quality time with family or friends.
The Ashokan Rail Trail (ART) is a more strenuous trail. Starting from either or three trailheads, Woodstock Dike Trailhead, Ashokan Station Trailhead, or Boiceville Bridge Trailhead, the trail is 11.5 miles roundtrip, a roughly 4 and a half hour excursion. However, the length is the only daunting aspect. The trail is spectacular, running alongside the Ashokan Reservoir, and sits on the Ulster and Delaware Railroad. The trail’s surface consists of finely crushed stone, spanning 12ft in width - this surface is constructed specifically so that bicycles and other non-motorized vehicles can take part of the trail. This trail has rave reviews, encouraging many others to take part of the trail and experience the incredible views.
The 26-mile Catskill Scenic Trail illustrates the true beauty of the Catskills. Filled with an abundance of opportunities including fishing, running, hiking, biking and even horseback riding the trail winds through fields, mountains and rivers emphasizing the versatility of the Catskills. The trail is created on the remnants of the Ulster and Delaware Railroad and its cinder, crushed stone, dirt, and gravel surface spans across the mostly flat surfaces. Beginning at Bloomville or Roxbury the trail spans two counties: Delaware and Schohaire. While the trail is mostly remote, it goes through the more populated area of Stamford. The trail is highly recommended by others, while the length of it is quite intimidat- ing the level of it is not. The Catskill Scenic Rail Trail is a fantastic way to experience all parts of the Catskills and remains one of the most desired trails to hike.
A less extreme rail trail is the Hunter Branch Rail Trail. The trail is a mere 1.5 miles and is built on the ruins of the Stony Clove and Catskill Mountain Railroad. Accessible at Ski Bowl Road or at Hunter, the trail includes a 90 ft truss bridge that previously crossed a tributary. This specific trail is only a segment of a more complex series of trails, the Hunter Rail Trails. The trail’s varying surfaces including boardwalk, crushed stone, dirt and grass allows for many different people to take advantage of the trail. As people cross the physical bridge along the trail, the Hunter Branch Rail Trail acts as a bridge between communities, bringing business to the town of Hunter.
As the Hunter Rail Trails continue to expand and hopefully connect Kaaterskill Falls to Dolan’s Lake in Hunter, a series of trails are continuously being built. A trail that is a part of the Hunter Rail Trail is the Kaaterskill Rail Trail. Located at Palenville or at Haines fall the trail is a 2 mile hike consisting of concrete, dirt, grass and gravel. Built on the remnants of the Ulster and Delaware Train Station the trail connects the Mountain Top Historical Society and amenities at the NYS North South Lake campgrounds. Built in 2017 the trail has been positively received due to its enticing views of Kaaterskill Falls. The trail attracts many different types of people, it is a great way to spend time with family and friends, go horseback riding, explore nature, and become involved in the community.
Another notable rail trail is the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail Found at Denniston road or at Rockwell lane, the 21.3 mile trail is popular for its varying opportunities. These opportunities include walking, biking and even horseback riding. While the length is quite intimidating, this trail is not as challenging, and available to all different levels of hikers. Traversing through the towns of Gardiner, New Paltz, Rosendale, and Ulster the trail is open from sunrise to sunset. Consisting of asphalt, cinder, dirt and gravel the trail’s surface is accessible to all. As the trail weaves through different lakes, and historical cement-mining factories it weaves through smaller towns, presenting chances to take a break at local cafes, and support local businesses.
While six trails have been highlighted, there are still an abundance of trails and even trails that are continuing to be built. Each trail presents their own set of challenges, yet the views and experience make the trek worthwhile. If you have some free time and want to go outside, go explore the Catskills original highline and see if you can find even more rail trails.
