Attractions and places to see around West Hurley include a variety of natural features and outdoor activities within the Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountains region. The area is known for its connection to the Ashokan Reservoir, a significant body of water created in the early 1900s. Visitors can explore scenic trails, viewpoints, and historical sites. West Hurley provides opportunities for nature enthusiasts and those seeking outdoor recreation.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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Beautiful rail trail with parking at both ends.
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You cycle the entire route through the forest. The path is easy to cycle and, with its bridges, offers wonderful natural surroundings. There are parking spaces at both the beginning and the end.
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From the fire tower, the 360° view is impressive. The Ashokan Reservoir, the Hudson Valley and the small Echo Lake are visible from the top of the tower. Access is closed during the winter months. Luckily during our visit the ranger had come to open the tower since the weather was nice and it was the holidays. From the Overlook point, however, the view is limited by the trees.
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Trail hike around a lake. Be sure you have GPS with you could get lost. Trail not marked except by foot path.
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Beautiful and peaceful. Very little shade so dress accordingly.
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Scenic road that runs right next to the Ashokan Reservoir. Great views of the Reservoir and the Catskill Mountains.
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Scenic road that runs right next to the Ashokan Reservoir. Great views of the Reservoir and the Catskill Mountains.
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The Ashokan Rail Trail is a great multi-use trail, that has a compact surface. This trail runs beside the Ashokan Reservoir. It is open during daylight hours. There are parking areas and restrooms at the trailheads.
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West Hurley is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the Onteora Lake, a tranquil spot great for watersports and picnics, or explore the expansive Ashokan Rail Trail which runs alongside the Ashokan Reservoir. The area is also part of the broader Catskill Mountains region, offering breathtaking outdoor adventures and scenic vistas.
Yes, there are several excellent hiking opportunities. The Overlook Mountain Fire Tower is accessible via a trail that features the ruins of an old hotel and leads to panoramic views. Onteora Lake also offers mountain biking and hiking trails of varying difficulty. For more options, you can explore various running and hiking routes in the area on the Running Trails around West Hurley guide.
While the original hamlet of West Hurley was flooded, you can find historical interest at the Overlook Mountain Fire Tower, which was built in 1950 and offers a glimpse into the region's past. The nearby Overlook Mountain Trail also features the ruins of a historic hotel from 1875. Additionally, the hamlet of Old Hurley, a National Historic Landmark, is known for its well-preserved stone houses, some over 300 years old, which are occasionally open for tours on 'Stone House Day'.
Absolutely! The Ashokan Rail Trail is a multi-use trail with a compact surface, ideal for families to walk or cycle, and features restrooms at trailheads. Onteora Lake is another family-friendly spot, offering a tranquil setting for watersports, picnics, and easy trails. West Hurley Park also provides recreational opportunities with tennis courts.
For stunning vistas, visit the Overlook Mountain Fire Tower, which provides panoramic views over the Hudson River Valley and the Ashokan Reservoir from its 60-foot height. Another excellent spot is the View of Ashokan Reservoir and Catskill Mountains, a scenic road offering great views right next to the reservoir.
Yes, the Rock Oak Preserve features a one-mile loop trail through a hardwood and coniferous forest where dogs are permitted on leash. The Ashokan Rail Trail is also a popular choice for walking with dogs, offering a wide, compact surface.
The Ashokan Rail Trail is excellent for cycling, with a compact surface running alongside the Ashokan Reservoir. For those interested in mountain biking, Onteora Lake has trails of varying difficulty. You can find more detailed routes for gravel biking and mountain biking on the Gravel biking around West Hurley and MTB Trails around West Hurley guides.
Many attractions offer convenient parking. The Ashokan Rail Trail has designated parking areas at its trailheads, including the Woodstock Dike Trailhead. Onteora Lake also provides on-site parking. The Rock Oak Preserve also has on-site parking available.
Maverick Concerts, tucked away in the woods, is a notable venue known for its hand-built hall and unique concert experiences. While not in West Hurley itself, the nearby Hurley Heritage Society offers insights into the region's history and culture.
The Ashokan Reservoir is a significant body of water created in the early 1900s as part of New York City's water supply system. Its creation led to the relocation of the original West Hurley hamlet. Today, it is a prominent natural feature, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities along its shores, such as the Ashokan Rail Trail.
The Ashokan Rail Trail — Woodstock Dike Trailhead is noted as wheelchair accessible, providing an inclusive option for enjoying the scenic views along the Ashokan Reservoir.
Visitors particularly appreciate the panoramic views from the Overlook Mountain Fire Tower, which offers vistas of the Hudson River Valley and Ashokan Reservoir. The Ashokan Rail Trail is highly valued for its scenic route beside the reservoir and its suitability for various activities. The tranquil setting of Onteora Lake is also a favorite for relaxation and outdoor recreation.


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