Hiking in The Catskill Mountains

One of the best ways to get in touch with nature

The northern Catskills have some of the best hiking trails in the world. You’ll travel through a landscape that has inspired generations of painters, including some of the greatest names in nineteenth-century American art.

Visit the highest waterfall in New York State, explore the northern Catskills' legendary "cloves," where Rip Van Winkle took his marathon nap and where the roads still follow Native American footpaths.

Climb to the summits of the high peaks for breathtaking five-state views. The Windham area has three 4,000-foot peaks along the Blackhead ridge. The trails are well marked and maintained by the New York Department of Environmental Conservation.

For those who prefer not to go it alone, the Mountain Top Historical Society offers a series of hikes ranging from easy to difficult. Membership is not required, but the Society requests that you register for each hike by contacting Bob Gildersleeve at 518-734-9701 or Larry Tompkins at518-734-4264. Please visit www.mths.org for details and more information.

The Long Path is a 326-mile hiking trail extending from the George Washington Bridge north to John Boyd Thacher Park near Albany, and it runs right through Windham. Energetic hikers can follow it over Blackhead Mountain. Alternatively, the Windham High Peak hike offers a less-strenuous walk in the woods. The Windham High Peak route is a 6.5 mile round trip journey.

Also in our area:

Five State Lookout - Views of the Hudson River Valley and five states off Route 23 in East Windham.

Pratt Rock - Scenic climb to see relief carvings in the mountainside dating from the 1800's, commissioned so an itinerant stonecutter could pay for his lodgings. Route 23 in Prattsville.

Kaaterskill Falls - The highest waterfall in NY State. Scenic marked hiking trails with wonderful views of the Hudson Valley. Average hike time is one hour. Route23A, Haines Falls.

Devil's Tombstone - A natural rock formation that resembles a large tombstone, surrounded by wonderful hiking trails. Just off Route 23A & Route 214. 5.6 mile round trip hike.

Restoring your spirit and recharging your energy in our exhilarating mountain air doesn’t mean you have to rough it in a tent! After a day in the outdoors, relax in style at the Winwood Inn and Condominiums. Bask beside our heated outdoor swimming pool or unwind in a chaise lounge during the sun-drenched days of summer and fall. Explore the lush green forest of the surrounding Catskills or embark on a treasure hunt at nearby antique shops.

For more information, call the Winwood Inn and Condos at 800-754-9463 for reservations.