Catskill Scenic Rail Trail

Trail Description:

The non-profit Catskill Revitalization Corporation (CRC) owns, operates and maintains The Catskill Scenic Rail Trail, a 45 mile linear park. Nineteen miles are used as a four season recreational trail by hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians and cross-country skiers. The route travels on the railbed of the former Ulster & Delaware Railroad and connects with hundreds of miles of trails in other systems. This 19 mile section of the rail-trail is nearly flat, with a firm, well-drained cinder surface. Distance markers along the route let you know how far you are from the next trailhead.

The trail parallels the West Branch of the Delaware River in NY, passing through forests and farmland and the historic villages of Stamford, Hobart and South Kortright where services are available. There are beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and undulating river valleys. The very gentle grade makes this the perfect family mountain bike excursion. Riders of all ages and abilities will enjoy this easy, scenic bike ride in the western Catskill Mountains. The scenery is even more spectacular during the fall foliage season in New York State.

A shuttle service to the Catskill Scenic Trail is available from the Plattekill Mountain Resort, where you can also rent mountain bikes by the hour or by the day. The resort features over 60 miles of lift-served mountain bike trails and is host to a series of N.O.R.B.A sanctioned (National Off-Road Biking Association) mountain bike races during the warmer months.

History:

The Railroad was chartered in 1866 as the Rondout & Oswego and eventually became the Ulster & Delaware in 1875. Crossing the dramatic scenery of the Catskill Mountains it was called the most scenic line in the east and helped create the Catskill tourist trade. It also transported agricultural products, lumber, bluestone and coal. Its use faded with the introduction of automobiles and trucks.

Nearby Attractions:

Delaware and Ulster Rail Ride
The Delaware and Ulster Railroad Ride is an excursion train that combines rail ride nostalgia with scenic rides through New York's legendary Catskill Mountains. A one and a half hour scenic, roundtrip Delaware & Ulster Rail Trip leaves from Arkville.

Covered Bridges
There are four historic Covered Bridges located nearby. The Downsvlle Bridge in Cochester, Fitch's Bridge in Delhi, Hamden Bridge in Hamden, and the Blenheim Bridge in North Blenhiem. The Blenheim is the longest single span bridge in the world and worth a side trip to see.

Directions To The Catskill Scenic Rail Trail:

The trail also parallels New York State Routes 10 and 23 and there are several access points.

Recommended parking:

From Exit 20 (Richmondville) off of I-88. Drive south on Rt.10 to Stamford (20 miles). Turn southeast on Rt.23 for .3 miles, then head west-southwest on Railroad Ave. Park at the old train station on Railroad Ave or

From Exit I-87 (New York Thruway) at Catskill. Head west on Rt.23 to Stamford and follow above directions.

For more information:

For other long distance multi-use rail-trails in this region see New York Rail Trails

Catskill Revitalization Corp.
Box 310
Stamford, NY 12167

Phone: (800) 225-4132

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