Spring has sprung in the Catskills. That means exciting new projects — like a new bridge and expanded parking area — but it also means challenging, sometimes dangerous conditions with icy trails and flooding.
The New York Department of Environmental Conservation recently released an updated Catskill Outdoor Recreation Bulletin, with information that outdoors enthusiasts in the Catskills should be aware of.
Below is a list of recent notices. Check the Catskill Backcountry Information webpage for more detailed information on access, outdoor recreation infrastructure, and conditions.
Catskill Recreation Updates
Big Indian Wilderness – Rider Hollow Lean-to on the Mapledale-Oliveria Trail is closed until further notice.
Balsam Lake Mountain Wild Forest – The DEC operations crew completed the construction of a new bridge on the Kelly Hollow Loop trail in Balsam Lake Mountain Wild Forest.
Sundown Wild Forest – DEC operations staff are building a new expanded parking area located within the Peekamoose Valley Riparian Corridor in the Sundown Wild Forest. The project is located within the former Trailer Field Parking Area on Peekamoose Road (Ulster County 42) and is designed to centralize parking in the corridor and accommodate approximately 55 cars. The parking area will accommodate visitors to the Peekamoose Blue Hole, provide access to the Long Path foot trail system and general access to adjacent State lands for anglers, hunters and other recreationists pursuing their respective activities.
Windham-Blackhead Range Wilderness – The Escarpment Trail is closed between the Elm Ridge Lean-to and the summit of Windham High Peak until further notice. Trail closure map (PDF).
Kaaterskill Wild Forest – Expect the trails in the Kaaterskill Falls area to be very icy. Hikers should use extreme caution, especially on icy stone staircases and other rock surfaces. Be prepared with traction devices such as microspikes or crampons. For your safety, avoid hiking near cliff edges and avoid the midpool area if you do not have traction devices.
Kaaterskill Clove Visitor Use Management Project Updates – A synthesis of the online public meeting, held on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, has been posted to the project website. Members of the public are encouraged to continue checking the project website for updates and can provide feedback, comments and questions to the planning team.
Parking Restrictions in Hunter –The town of Hunter has established parking restrictions on Route 23a and Platte Clove Road. Additionally, parking is prohibited in all vehicle pull-offs on Route 23a in Kaaterskill Clove from May through October. Park only at designated DEC parking lots and come prepared with back-up options and move on if an area’s parking lot is full. Any illegally parked vehicle will be ticketed and towed to the Hunter Town Hall Impound Lot (5742 NY-23A in Tannersville). DEC recommends visitors access Kaaterskill Falls by parking at the Laurel House Road, Scutt Road, or South Lake parking areas. Visit DEC’s website for directions to these parking areas.
Additional Notices
Trail Conditions – Heavy rain has led to flooding conditions in the Catskills. For your safety, avoid trails with stream crossings and never attempt to cross high, fast-moving water. Please be advised that the trails are very wet and easily susceptible to damage and erosion. Hikers should travel in the middle of the trail, even if it is muddy to prevent trail widening and visitor created trails. Plan ahead and check the weather before heading out on your adventure. If weather conditions are poor, consider visiting another time.
Visitor Center Hours – Beginning April 1, the Catskills Visitor Center is open Friday to Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Be sure to stop by for a visit before your next adventure. Have your questions answered, get trip planning advice, or pick up maps and local information and more. Contact the Catskills Visitor Center for more information: 845.688.3369 or [email protected].