Delaware County in the Catskill Mountains has long been an outdoor sports and adventure destination. Home to the headwaters of the mighty Delaware River, its lush landscape is defined by plentiful crystal streams, rolling hills, soaring pine forests, and magnificent high peaks. Thanks in large part to the mix of public lands and “forever wild” forest preserves that run through Catskill Park, the county also offers unparalleled access to enjoy recreational pursuits including hiking, camping, fly fishing, and more.
With the dreamy days of summer on the horizon, we rounded up five of the best ways to get outside and enjoy all that Delaware County has to offer nature lovers.
Hiking
With over 350 miles of trails, it’s no wonder that the Catskill Mountains are a dream destination for hikers of all ages and skill levels.
The Shavertown Trail just outside of Andes offers families and novice hikers the best of two worlds: spectacular Catskill Mountain views with a little less than a mile of moderately strenuous effort. After a 520-foot ascent to Snake Pond, hikers are rewarded with a soaring overlook above the magnificent Pepacton Reservoir, which provides a whopping 25 percent of New York City’s drinking water.
For experienced hikers, Bramley Mountain Trail is definitely a hike to cross off the list. The popular four-mile trail was designed and built by the Catskill Mountain Club and crosses through the towns of Delhi and Bovina. The summit boasts views of the valley below, a former fire tower that’s currently in restoration, and an abandoned bluestone quarry with rugged cliffs.
Biking
For an all-ages-friendly biking route, look no farther than the Catskill Scenic Trail. The 26-mile rail trail runs along the former Ulster & Delaware Railroad, the once-bustling line that carried timber and agricultural goods to New York City and its tourists upstate for the ultimate in R&R.
With four convenient trailheads located between Roxbury and Bloomville, this recreational path offers a gentle ride through historic farmland and small towns, with views of the West Branch of the Delaware River.
Paddling
Delaware County has sparkling rivers, streams, and reservoirs aplenty, and an excursion by kayak, canoe, tube, rowboat, or even paddleboard offers a one-of-a-kind vantage point to explore them.
The Pepacton Reservoir in Downsville is a swell spot for a leisurely day of kayaking or canoeing. Grab an access permit from the New York City DEP, and paddle the day away on the 15-mile-long reservoir while surrounded by breathtaking views of the nearby mountain vistas.
Looking for a spot to grab a rental and head right into the water?
Al’s Sport Store at the foot of the Pepacton Reservoir offers kayaks, canoes, and rowboats for rent. Over at Lake Wawaka in Halcottsville, Susan’s Pleasant Pheasant Farm rents kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and paddleboards for easy exploring. And Hancock-based OARS has kayaks, canoes, and tubes for rent plus shuttle service to over a dozen access areas along the Delaware.
Golfing
If a day on the links is more of an ideal way to revel in the bounty of the outdoors, Delaware County definitely doesn’t disappoint! The gentle rolling terrain of the river valley makes it a top destination for golfers.
With a dozen golf courses and clubs, there’s always a day of golf close at hand. After the game, enjoying a refreshing drink back at the clubhouse while enjoying majestic mountain views is a pretty dreamy way to complete the relaxing day.
Fly Fishing
As the birthplace of American fly fishing, there’s no denying that the Catskills feature some of the best fishing action in the Northeast.
Equipped with just a New York State fishing license and their favorite gear, advanced anglers can head out to any public fishing hole of their choosing along the county’s famed trout streams, such as the Beaverkill River and the East and West branches of the Delaware River.
Looking to try the sport for the first time? Delaware County is home to a diversity of experienced fishing guides that offer everything from a few hours’ instruction to a resort getaway complete with luxurious accommodations.
For more inspiration on where to go and what to do in Delaware County, visit Greatwesterncatskills.com.
