Hiking in the Catskills: A Beginner’s Guide to Hudson Valley Treks

Want to explore the gorgeous Catskill trails but have no clue where to start? Here’s a step-by-step hiking guide for beginners.

These are the days for scenic treks, but, before you venture out, make sure you’re prepared. Doug Kluthe from Catskill Outfitters in Phoenicia advises hikers to bring an extra layer or two (temperatures can be unpredictable this time of year), wear sturdy and supportive footwear, and pack plenty of water. Bill Kennedy, owner of Kenco Outfitters in Kingston, suggests packing first aid supplies such as bandages and antiseptic wipes, as well as insect repellent and healthy snacks.

Here are six hikes that are perfect for beginners. Stay safe by sticking to the marked trail and signing in and out on the register at the trailhead.

Minnewaska State Park

Kerhonkson

With a variety of trails that allow hikers to explore as much or as little of The Gunks as they want, this park has something for everyone. The most basic trail is a nearly two-mile loop with easy terrain that circles Lake Minnewaska. As you become more adventurous, make sure to check out the remaining 50 miles of foot trails leading to Sam’s Point or Gertrude’s Nose.

Kaaterskill Falls

Hunter

An easy-to-moderate hike to the base of a stunning 260-foot waterfall, this 1.4-mile trail is well-groomed but has lots of stairs (200 to be exact). It begins at the trailhead off Route 23A and ends at the bottom, offering scenic views that have inspired many an artist, including the Valley’s own Thomas Cole.

Read more of the beginners guide, written by Megan Wilson here.

허드슨 밸리: 캐츠킬 하이킹: 허드슨 밸리 트레킹 초보자 가이드

Hiking in the Catskills: A Beginner’s Guide to Hudson Valley Treks

Want to explore the gorgeous Catskill trails but have no clue where to start? Here’s a step-by-step hiking guide for beginners.

These are the days for scenic treks, but, before you venture out, make sure you’re prepared. Doug Kluthe from Catskill Outfitters in Phoenicia advises hikers to bring an extra layer or two (temperatures can be unpredictable this time of year), wear sturdy and supportive footwear, and pack plenty of water. Bill Kennedy, owner of Kenco Outfitters in Kingston, suggests packing first aid supplies such as bandages and antiseptic wipes, as well as insect repellent and healthy snacks.

Here are six hikes that are perfect for beginners. Stay safe by sticking to the marked trail and signing in and out on the register at the trailhead.

Minnewaska State Park

Kerhonkson

With a variety of trails that allow hikers to explore as much or as little of The Gunks as they want, this park has something for everyone. The most basic trail is a nearly two-mile loop with easy terrain that circles Lake Minnewaska. As you become more adventurous, make sure to check out the remaining 50 miles of foot trails leading to Sam’s Point or Gertrude’s Nose.

Kaaterskill Falls

Hunter

An easy-to-moderate hike to the base of a stunning 260-foot waterfall, this 1.4-mile trail is well-groomed but has lots of stairs (200 to be exact). It begins at the trailhead off Route 23A and ends at the bottom, offering scenic views that have inspired many an artist, including the Valley’s own Thomas Cole.

Read more of the beginners guide, written by Megan Wilson here.

사진 썸네일 블로그 작성자
매거진
Hudson Valley
Since 1972, Hudson Valley Magazine has been the authority on the people, places, and activities that define the beautiful and ever-evolving Hudson Valley region.
미디어 언급

허드슨 밸리: 캐츠킬 하이킹: 허드슨 밸리 트레킹 초보자 가이드

Hiking in the Catskills: A Beginner’s Guide to Hudson Valley Treks

Want to explore the gorgeous Catskill trails but have no clue where to start? Here’s a step-by-step hiking guide for beginners.

These are the days for scenic treks, but, before you venture out, make sure you’re prepared. Doug Kluthe from Catskill Outfitters in Phoenicia advises hikers to bring an extra layer or two (temperatures can be unpredictable this time of year), wear sturdy and supportive footwear, and pack plenty of water. Bill Kennedy, owner of Kenco Outfitters in Kingston, suggests packing first aid supplies such as bandages and antiseptic wipes, as well as insect repellent and healthy snacks.

Here are six hikes that are perfect for beginners. Stay safe by sticking to the marked trail and signing in and out on the register at the trailhead.

Minnewaska State Park

Kerhonkson

With a variety of trails that allow hikers to explore as much or as little of The Gunks as they want, this park has something for everyone. The most basic trail is a nearly two-mile loop with easy terrain that circles Lake Minnewaska. As you become more adventurous, make sure to check out the remaining 50 miles of foot trails leading to Sam’s Point or Gertrude’s Nose.

Kaaterskill Falls

Hunter

An easy-to-moderate hike to the base of a stunning 260-foot waterfall, this 1.4-mile trail is well-groomed but has lots of stairs (200 to be exact). It begins at the trailhead off Route 23A and ends at the bottom, offering scenic views that have inspired many an artist, including the Valley’s own Thomas Cole.

Read more of the beginners guide, written by Megan Wilson here.

사진 썸네일 블로그 작성자
매거진
Hudson Valley
Since 1972, Hudson Valley Magazine has been the authority on the people, places, and activities that define the beautiful and ever-evolving Hudson Valley region.
미디어 언급
browse all articles
여기 Sawyer에서
March 16, 2026
6 Min
The Trek: Peg Leg’s Calendar Year Triple Crown Gear List
Read More

미디어 언급

I treat my clothing with Sawyer Permethrin before hitting the trail.

Mac
Mac
기고 작성자

미디어 언급

Water Filter: Sawyer Squeeze

Gustavo
하이커

미디어 언급

I like to use my CNOC as a gravity system with the Sawyer Squeeze filter.

Mike Unger, Liz Thomas, & Naomi Hudetz
Treeline Review Staff
<<  Previous Post
No previous post!
Check out our Directory
Next Post  >>
No next post!
Check out our Directory