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Ulster CountyHiking Trails | Places To Hike |
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All Cragsmoor Listings
Cragsmoor Hiking Trails | Places To Hike |
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Sam's Point Preserve | 845-647-7989 | |
Sam's Point Preserve, a National Natural Landmark, 5,400-acres in size, is located at 400 Sam's Point Road, Cragsmoor, NY 12420 in Ulster County. It is on the highest section of the Shawangunk Mountains, at the most southerly section of Minnewaska State Park Preserve. website and more . . . |
All Esopus Listings
Esopus Hiking Trails | Places To Hike |
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Black Creek Preserve "Scenic Hudson Valley" | ||
Black Creek Preserve
Esopus, Ulster County Hudson River Valley, New York State This 130-acre park features a dramatic suspension bridge, spectacular Hudson River views and offers hiking trails that wind among vernal pools. website and more . . . | ||
Esopus Meadows Preserve "Scenic Hudson Valley" | ||
Esopus Meadows Preserve
Town of Esopus, Ulster County Hudson River Valley, New York State The Esopus Meadows Preserve is located in the Town of Esopus, along the Hudson River, south of Kingston, in northeastern Ulster County, New York State. This 93-acre preserve is owned and managed by Scenic Hudson. website and more . . . | ||
Shaupeneak Ridge "Scenic Hudson Valley" | ||
Shaupeneak Ridge
Esopus, Ulster County Hudson River Valley, New York State From Scenic Hudson: "Esopus, Ulster County (790 acres)—Located on the slopes and top of Shaupeneak Ridge, part of the Marlboro Mountains, the preserve offers a cornucopia of treats for nature lovers — wildflower-filled grasslands, woods, a waterfall and pond, stunning rock formations and an abundance of wildlife, including beaver, deer, coyotes and turkeys. Just as impressive are the vistas, stretching to the Hudson River and, once the leaves have fallen, the Catskill Mountains. (Scenic Hudson has protected farmland at the base of Shaupeneak Ridge to ensure pastoral views from the preserve remain unspoiled.) This splendor, combined with the rugged terrain, has made Shaupeneak Ridge one of the region's prime mountain-biking destinations. The preserve also is the site of Scenic Hudson's annual Spring Sprint 5K Trail Race. At whatever speed you enjoy the trails, you'll be amply rewarded." website and more . . . |
All Highland Listings
Highland Hiking Trails | Places To Hike |
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Franny Reese State Park "Scenic Hudson Valley" | ||
Franny Reese State Park
Macks Lane Highland, NY 12528 Ulster County Hudson River Valley, New York State From Scenic Hudson: "Scenic Hudson initially protected (and continues to manage) this stunning landscape, now owned by the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and named in memory of Frances "Franny" Reese (1917-2003), Scenic Hudson's guiding spirit. Its 2.5 miles of trails follow in part an historic carriage road that passes the ruins of a 19th-century estate, while an overlook affords superb views of the Mid-Hudson Bridge, Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park and the City of Poughkeepsie." website and more . . . | ||
Walkway Over The Hudson State Historic Park - Ulster | 845-834-2867 | |
"On October 3, 2009 Governor David A. Paterson opened the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park as a legacy project of the Hudson Fulton Champlain Quadricentennial. The park provides access to the Hudson River's breathtaking landscape for pedestrians, hikers, joggers, bicyclists, and people with disabilities. The bridge deck stands 212 feet above the river's surface and is 6,678 feet (1.28 miles) long, making it the longest, elevated pedestrian bridge in the world." website and more . . . |
All Kerhonkson Listings
Kerhonkson Hiking Trails | Places To Hike |
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Minnewaska State Park | 845-256-0579 | |
Minnewaska State Park Preserve is located at 5281 Route 44-55, Kerhonkson NY 12446, Ulster County in the Hudson Valley.
"Minnewaska State Park Preserve is situated on the dramatic Shawangunk Mountain ridge, which rises more than 2,000 feet above sea level and is surrounded by rugged, rocky terrain. The park features numerous waterfalls, three crystalline sky lakes, dense hardwood forests, incising sheer cliffs and ledges opening to beautiful views, clear streams cut into valleys, world-class rock climbing and 35 miles of carriage roads and 35 miles of footpaths on which to bike, walk, hike and simply enjoy. And, all this within an hour and a half drive from New York City. website and more . . . |
All Kingston Listings
Kingston Hiking Trails | Places To Hike |
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D & H Canal Heritage Corridor | ||
The D & H Canal Heritage Corridor, 35-miles in size, is located in central Ulster County. The route follows the Delaware & Hudson Canal, the New York, Ontario & Western Railroad trail, and the scenic Rondout Creek.
From D&H Canal Heritage Corridor Alliance: "Thirty-five miles of historic adventure, this route traces the Delaware & Hudson Canal, the New York Ontario & Western Railroad, and the scenic Rondout Creek. Spanning the width of a rural valley in central Ulster County, this trail provides access to many outstanding natural and historic resources. Experience the D&H Canal towpaths and locks, historic hamlets, monumental cement caves and kilns, the forested and pastoral route of the abandoned O&W Railroad, scenic woodlands and stream valleys, wetlands, and other natural resources along the way." website and more . . . | ||
Onteora Lake Hike in Bluestone Wild Forest | ||
Onteora Lake Trail in Bluestone Wild Forest is located in the Town of Kingston, NY 12401 in Ulster County.
Distance: 1.8 miles Markers: Yellow Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Elevation: 200 feet ascent website and more . . . | ||
Sleightsburgh Park "Scenic Hudson Valley" | ||
Sleightsburgh Park
Kingston, Ulster County Hudson River Valley, New York State From Scenic Hudson: "Esopus, Ulster County (79 acres) Excellent fishing opportunities and breathtaking views abound at this park, preserved by Scenic Hudson and owned by the Town of Esopus. A half-mile of trails parallel Rondout Creek, leading through a wooded peninsula to a spit of land that extends far out into the river." website and more . . . |
All New Paltz Listings
New Paltz Hiking Trails | Places To Hike |
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Dutchess Rail Trail - William R. Steinhaus DRT | ||
The William R. Steinhaus Dutchess Rail Trail (WRS DRT) is a 13.4 mile multi-use linear county park that runs through the middle of Dutchess County along the former Maybrook Rail corridor including the towns of Poughkeepsie, LaGrange, Wappinger and East Fishkill, with a direct link to the
Walkway Over the Hudson State Park and the regional trail network.
"The WRS DRT has being earning accolades since its first section opened in 2008, and it was named “Best New Hiking Trail in the Hudson Valley” by Hudson Valley magazine. In 2014, the WRS DRT was As additional sections have been completed, use and acclaim have grown exponentially. website and more . . . | ||
Mohonk Mountain House Resort & Restaurant | 845-255-1000 | |
Mohonk Mountain House Resort, is located at 1000 Mountain Rest Road, New Paltz, NY 12561 in Dutchess County.
From Mohonk Mountain House: "Family-owned and operated since 1869, Mohonk Mountain House is an award-winning resort near the Catskill Mountains. Perfect for idyllic family vacations, romantic escapes, and instant getaways, our Victorian castle resort invites guests to be as active or relaxed as they want to be. Mohonk Mountain House is a spectacular Victorian Castle resort overlooking Lake Mohonk, in the heart of a scenic natural area comprised of more than 40,000 acres. Since 1869, guests have found a place for recreation and renewal of body, mind, and spirit in our unique mountaintop setting. The sight of this enchanting castle, sweeping lawns, award-winning gardens never fails to delight. website and more . . . |
All Olive Listings
Olive Hiking Trails | Places To Hike |
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Kanape Brook at Sundown Wild Forest | ||
Kanape Brook in Sundown Wild Forest, is located in the Town of Olive, NY 12461 in Ulster County.
Distance: 5.3 miles Markers: Red Difficulty: Moderate Elevation: Ascent - 500 feet Distance: 7.5 miles to High Point Summit Markers: Red Difficulty: Challenging Elevation: Ascent - 1,480 feet website and more . . . |
All Phoenicia Listings
Phoenicia Hiking Trails | Places To Hike |
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Mount Pleasant - Romer Mountain Trail | 845-256-3000 | |
Mount Pleasant-Romer Mountain Trail in
Slide Mountain Wilderness is located in the southern
Catskill Forest Preserve in Ulster County.
Distance: 9.0 miles Markers: Blue Difficulty: EasyElevation: Gain/Loss 3,098 feet, -1,185 feet from Lane Street website and more . . . |
All Rochester Listings
Rochester Hiking Trails | Places To Hike |
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Vernooy Falls | 845-256-3000 | |
Vernooy Kill Falls in the Sundown Wild Forest is located in the Town of Rochester, NY 12404 in Ulster County.
Distance: 3.6 miles Elevation: 250 feet ascent Vernooy Falls "Vernooy Kill Falls is a series of picturesque little waterfalls with pools, dropping about 30 feet in 4 stages. A foot bridge crosses the base of the falls for a scenic view. Nearby is a tall stonewall, a remnant of the Vernooy Mill which 200 years ago was a major crossroads where farmers near and far brought their grain for milling. A major road ran through this area which now looks so wild. In the ten years since 2000, over 1000 acres have burned on nearby Cherrytown Mountain." website and more . . . |
All Saugerties Listings
Saugerties Hiking Trails | Places To Hike |
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Cantine Veterans Sports Complex | 845-246-5890 | |
Cantine Veterans Sports Complex, a 127-acre sports and recreation complex, is located at the Washington Avenue Extension, Saugerties, NY 12477 in Ulster County. The Cantine Veterans Memorial Complex is a 127-acre sports and recreation complex owned and operated by the Town of Saugerties under the Department of Parks, Recreation & Buildings. website and more . . . | ||
Sojourner Truth / Ulster Landing County Park | 845-336-8484 | |
Sojourner Truth / Ulster Landing County Park is located at 916 Ulster Landing Road, Saugerties, NY 12477 in Ulster County in the mid-Hudson Valley.
"Sojourner Truth / Ulster Landing Park offers an assortment of activities for all ages. There are several hiking trials (one trail is handicap accessible) with beautiful views of the Hudson River that provide excellent bird watching opportunities. The park also features a boat launch, playground areas, barbecue grills, horseshoe pits, basketball hoops and beach volleyball. There is a large beach area for sunbathing and swimming with lifeguards on duty." website and more . . . |
All Shandaken Listings
Shandaken Hiking Trails | Places To Hike |
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Hunter-West Kill Wilderness Area - Ulster | 607-652-7365 | |
Hunter-West Kill Wilderness, 19,250-acres in size, is located in the
Catskill Forest Preserve in the towns of Lexington and Hunter in Greene County; and the Town of Shandaken in Ulster County.
"The 19,250-acre Hunter-West Kill Wilderness in the Catskill Forest Preserve is a high elevation east-west ridge that lies between the West Kill Creek to the north and the Esopus Creek to the south. Hunter-West Kill Wilderness is a remote mountainous location of more than 19,250 acres. The terrain is very steep in places with elevations ranging from 1,000 feet to 3,880 feet." website and more . . . | ||
Rochester Hollow Trail at Shandaken Wild Forest | 845-256-3000 | |
The Rochester Hollow Trail at Shandaken Wild Forest is located in the Town of Shandaken, NY 12480 in Ulster County.
Distance: Up to 6 miles Elevation: Ascent up to 800 feet Rochester Hollow Trail "From the parking lot, the abandoned road climbs gently and steadily along the stream, passing low hemlock stands. At about 1 mile, the trail gets steeper for ˝ mile, then becomes gentler, passing a 1921 Burroughs Forest Memorial Plaque, 2 small ponds and house ruins before stopping at private lands (about 3 miles). Good for cross-country skiing and limited mountain biking. At the end of the 3-mile road is an accessible lean-to campsite (with hardened surfaces, accessible picnic table, fireplace and privy)." website and more . . . | ||
Terrace Mountain Trail | 845-256-3000 | |
Terrace Mountain Trail in the
Slide Mountain Wilderness is located in the Town of Shandaken, NY 12480 in Ulster County.
Distance: 0.9 miles Markers: Yellow Difficulty: EasyElevation: 300 feet descent website and more . . . |
All Ulster County Listings
Ulster County Hiking Trails | Places To Hike |
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Catskill Forest Preserve - Ulster | ||
"The Catskill Park is a mountainous region of public and private lands in Southeastern New York's Ulster, Greene, Delaware and Sullivan Counties. Evidence of the area's unique natural history can be seen in the impressive skyline formed by the ninety-eight peaks over 3,000 feet in elevation. Human activities such as logging, quarrying, tanning, trapping, and fishing have also shaped the Park's more recent history. Today, tourism and recreation play a prominent role in both supporting the region's economy and creating an awareness of the Catskills' ecological significance. website and more . . . | ||
Curtis-Ormsbee Trail | 845-256-3000 | |
Curtis-Ormsbee Trail in the
Slide Mountain Wilderness is located in Ulster County.
Distance: 1.6 miles Markers: Blue Elevation: 900 feet ascent Difficulty: Moderate website and more . . . | ||
Giant Ledge at Slide Mountain Wilderness | 845-256-3000 | |
Giant Ledge in the
Slide Mountain Wilderness, is located in the Town of Shandaken, NY 12480 in Ulster County.
Distance: 1.6 miles Markers: Yellow and Blue Difficulty: Moderate Elevation: 1,000 feet ascent website and more . . . | ||
Giant Ledge-Panther Mountain-Fox Hollow Trail | 845-256-3000 | |
Giant Ledge-Panther Mountain-Fox Hollow Trail in the
Slide Mountain Wilderness is located in Ulster County.
Distance: 7.45 miles Markers: Blue Elevation: 2,620 feet ascent Difficulty: Challenging website and more . . . | ||
Hudson Highlands | 845-225-7207 | |
Click
to enlarge photo of the Hudson Highlands.
The sign reads: "For much of its 315-mile course, the Hudson River flows straight and broad. But at the Highlands, the Appalachian mountain chain intersects the river to create a fifteen mile stretch of rugged, mountainous landscape. This area contains the river's narrowest and deepest points, as well as its fastest currents. The Hudson River is an estuary, a mixture of salt and freshwater, and the saltwater line extends just north of Beacon. The River is tidal all the way up to the Troy Dam above Albany." website and more . . . | ||
Long Path Trail 15 - 20: Hiking / Biking Southern Catskills | 845-256-3000 | |
Long Path Trail 15 - 20: Southern Catskills - Hiking and Mountain Biking the Long Path Trail
"These sections of the Long Path mark the beginning of the route through Catskill Park. The Catskill Park has spectacular scenery and considerable rugged terrain. It passes over Slide Mountain, the tallest in the Catskills. Nowhere does the Long Path go higher. Small villages nestled in the valleys provide a break from the traverses through dense forests carpeting most of the Catskill Mountains. Most of its route follows DEC trails maintained by the Trail Conference. The trails are generally marked with different colored plastic markers. These are usually the only trail identification except at major trail junctions. The LP aqua paint blaze is reserved for when the trail crosses private property and road sections. As the Long Path changes frequently from one DEC trail to another, hikers must watch carefully for turns and make sure that they are on the proper trail. Most trail DEC junctions have signs that give the trail names and the direction and distance to important points (Distances are not always accurate on these signs.). At many of these intersections, a plastic Long Path marker indicates the route of the Long Path. Camping is permitted on State land at elevations below 3,500 feet (this elevation is usually marked by signs along the trails), and at locations at least 150 feet away from trails and water. The Long Path also passes several DEC lean-tos and campgrounds." more . . . | ||
Peekamoose-Table Mountain Trail | 845-256-3000 | |
Peekamoose-Table Mountain Trail at Slide Mountain is located in Ulster County.
Distance: 7.5 miles Markers: Blue Difficulty: Challenging Elevation: 2,820 feet elevation gain from Peekamoose Road. website and more . . . | ||
Phoenicia East Branch Trail aka Woodland Valley-Denning Trail | 845-256-3000 | |
Phoenicia East Branch Trail aka Woodland Valley-Denning Trail at Slide Mountain Wilderness is located in the Town of Shandaken, NY 12480 in Ulster County.
Distance: 9.8 miles Markers: Yellow Elevation: 2,300 ascent Difficulty: Easy to moderate for first 9 miles website and more . . . | ||
Slide Mountain Wilderness | 845-256-3000 | |
Slide Mountain Wilderness in the
Catskill Forest Preserve, offering 35 miles of trails, is located in the towns of Denning, Olive, and Shandaken in Ulster County, New York.
"The Slide Mountain Wilderness, encompassing more than 47,500 acres, is the largest and most popular wilderness area in the Catskill Forest Preserve. Extensive foot trails provide access to the remote interior, often climbing over lofty peaks with spectacular views. Slide Mountain, the tallest peak in all of the Catskills, inspired poet and naturalist John Burroughs to write; "Here the works of man dwindle, in the heart of the southern Catskills." A plaque commemorating both the man and the mountain graces the face of the summit rock, in tribute to Burroughs and his vision. website and more . . . | ||
Wittenberg-Cornell-Slide Trail aka Burroughs Range Trail | 845-256-3000 | |
Wittenberg-Cornell-Slide Trail aka Burroughs Range Trail at Slide Mountain Wilderness is located in Ulster County.
Distance: 9.75 miles Markers: Red Elevation: 3,625 feet elevation gain Difficulty: Challenging website and more . . . |
More Hudson Valley Hiking Trails | Places To Hike |
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Albany County [23 listings over 10 locations]
Columbia County [7 listings over 5 locations]
Dutchess County [24 listings over 14 locations]
Greene County [17 listings over 7 locations]
Orange County [38 listings over 17 locations]
Putnam County [20 listings over 6 locations]
Rensselaer County [8 listings over 7 locations]
Rockland County [44 listings over 15 locations]
Saratoga County [4 listings over 3 locations]
Schenectady County [2 listings over 2 locations]
Westchester County [83 listings over 35 locations]
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Find list of the best places to hike in Ulster County, New York. Hiking trails are listed by town within Dutchess County in the mid-Hudson Valley. Find hiking trails throughout Ulster and experience hiking in Ulster for the beginning, intermediate, and experienced hiker. Pack plenty of water, snacks, and your hiking gear, and select a great place to hike at Ulster Hiking Trails where you can experience the thrill of a challenging hike; or for beginners, the satisfying feeling of spending a day outdoors surrounded by nature. Although hiking and walking may appear to be the same activity; hiking usually refers to the experience of walking on trails and paths away from the noise and pollution of an urban area. Hiking trails are often surrounded by clean air, trees, the sounds of birds and the wonderful breadth of nature. In contrast, you can walk just about anywhere, including busy streets in a nearby city such as Kingston, New York. Ulster hiking offers a wide range of trails for all levels of hikers. The beginning, intermediate, and experienced hiker can find places to hike that are suitable for their level of expertise. Hiking with KidsHiking is ranked among the best activities for kids. Most kids will enjoy a hike. When you're in the planning phase of deciding where you and your child will hike, let the child's ability guide you. Some kids are more active and have more energy than other children. Let the age of the child and each individual child's ability to walk distances be your guide.The benefits of hiking with kids are many. Hiking allows you to share an experience or adventure with your child where you can discover nature and a healthy outdoor environment. Learn about birds, small animals, wild flowers, trees, and more about the natural world around us. You can work together with your child to map out and determine the hiking route that best suits you and your child's ability. In addition to the many benefits listed above, is the fact that hiking is good for your mental and physical health, and hiking is often free. A hike is within reach of most people that are reasonably healthy, regardless of financial circumstances. Involve your child in the planning stages of a hike. Select a trail together, and then create a simple map that your child can read while on the trail. You can also teach the child how to read trail markers. If your child is not initially interested in hiking, you may want to reward your child at the end of a hike for helping to find the hiking markers and the way forward or back to home base. This added incentive may encourage your child toward becoming a hiker. During the preparation phase of the hike, give children a list of hiking essentials and let them pack their own backpack. The backpack should include gear similar to your own such as a whistle, rainwear, compass, and first-aid kit. In addition to involving the children in "the adventure of hiking" they will feel grownup and responsible as you work together to make the hike a success. Before embarking on your hiking adventure assemble adequate supplies including plenty of water, healthy snacks that your child enjoys, and a map that your child can read. Involve them in decisions of where to hike as you would involve another adult. Here are some suggestions toward building a successful hiking experience with kids:
Fishing pond - Fishing in Ulster Picnic area - Picnicking in Ulster Playground - Playgrounds in Ulster Swimming - Swimming in Ulster The most important thing to remember is that hiking should be fun. Don't stress if you cannot complete your hike, or if it starts to rain, or if it's too hot. Just enjoy the day together. These memories will last a lifetime for both you and your children. The mid-Hudson Valley offers hiking trails for hikers of all levels, at Hiking in Ulster. With more than 350 miles of trails situated in forever-wild acres, hiking is a major attraction in Ulster County. Whether a beginner, intermediate, or advanced hiker looking for a challenge, you'll find trails to match your experience. Check this list of places to hike in Ulster.
Hiking trails in Esopus: Shaupeneak Ridge Hiking trails in Kerhonkson: Minnewaska State Park Hiking trails in Ulster: Catskill Forest Preserve Hiking trails in Ulster: Hudson Highlands Hiking trails in Ulster: Slide Mountain Wilderness Shorter hikes for the beginning hiker and intermediate hiker include Hiking trails in Esopus: Black Creek Preserve Hiking trails in Esopus: Esopus Meadows Preserve Hiking trails in Highland: Franny Reese State Park Hiking trails in Highland: Walkway Over The Hudson Hiking trails in Kingston: Sleightsburgh Park Hiking trails in New Paltz: Ulster Rail Trail Hiking trails in New Paltz: Mohonk Mountain House - Day pass forhiking Hiking trails in Ulster: Catskill Forest Preserve Day Hikes Hiking trails in Ulster: Hudson Highlands - Easy to challenging hikes A hike can take only an hour or take several months involving camping equipment and gear. Although hiking paths vary in difficulty, it is believed by most that hiking is good for your physical and mental health as well as your spirit. Many hiking paths are located in large parks or forest preserves such as Catskill Forest preserve offering many challenging hikes. Regardless of your skill level, all hikers can benefit from a natural environment that allows you to breath-in fresh air, listen to the sounds of nature, the singing of birds, and the sounds of small animals running about. Photographers, be sure to bring your camera as hiking trails often run through scenic landscapes offering great photo opportunities. Before starting your first hike, review essentials for hiking. Essentials for Hiking SafetyTips for Safe Hiking. |