The best walks and hikes around Shokan

Yes, the region has several great options for families. The Comeau Property Trail Loop – Catskill Park is a very accessible walk suitable for all skill levels. Another excellent choice is the Onteora Lake Trail loop, which offers a gentle path around a scenic lake.

Dogs are generally permitted on trails in the Catskill Forest Preserve, but they must be leashed. The Ashokan Rail Trail is a popular choice for dog walkers due to its wide, flat surface. Always check specific regulations for the trail you plan to hike and be prepared to clean up after your pet.

The Ashokan Rail Trail is an 11.5-mile multi-use path with a surface of compacted crushed stone, making it accessible for hikers of all abilities, including those with strollers or wheelchairs. It runs along the northern edge of the Ashokan Reservoir, offering fantastic views of the water and mountains.

There are three main trailheads for the Ashokan Rail Trail, all with large parking areas. The most popular access points are the Ashokan Rail Trail- Woodstock Dike Trailhead, the Ashokan Station Trailhead, and the Boiceville Bridge Trailhead. The Ashokan Station Trailhead is a local favorite as it provides access to the trail in both directions.

Yes, for a paved surface with panoramic mountain vistas, the Ashokan Promenade is an ideal choice. It offers nearly three miles of paved walkway along the reservoir, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

For direct, expansive views right from the trail, both the Ashokan Rail Trail and the Ashokan Promenade are your best options as they run alongside the reservoir. For an elevated perspective, the Ashokan High Point Trail loop leads to a summit with impressive views over the region, including the reservoir.

While the immediate Shokan area is more known for its reservoir and forest trails, the broader Catskills region is famous for its waterfalls. A well-known nearby destination is Kaaterskill Falls. For specific trail information within the Catskills, you can consult resources from the New York Department of Environmental Conservation.

The trails around Shokan are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning reservoir views, the variety of trails from easy walks to challenging climbs, and the well-maintained paths in areas like the Bluestone Wild Forest.

The Ticetonyk Trail to West Viewpoint is a great option. It's a relatively short hike of under 3 miles that rewards you with a scenic viewpoint from the Phoenica-Mount Tobias Wild Forest.

Hiking in Shokan is a year-round activity, but autumn is particularly spectacular when the Catskill Mountains are covered in fall foliage. Summer is perfect for enjoying the lush forests, while spring brings blooming wildflowers. In winter, trails like the Ashokan Rail Trail are popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Trails in the Catskill Park and Forest Preserve are marked with color-coded plastic discs. Blue markers typically indicate primary trails, red markers often lead to points of interest or summits, and yellow markers usually denote connector or secondary trails. It's always wise to carry a map and compass or a GPS device.