14 Best Off-peak Hiking in Catskills

Looking for the best off-peak hikes in Catskills? I've been hiking here every week since 2018 and I've completed every trail on this list many times. While the Catskills 3500 peak gets all the hype, some of the most amazing hikes in the Catskills don't need to chase the altitude. The benefits are just as good, but usually better!

This guide is a hand-curated list of the best non-3500' mountain hikes in Catskills. You will find Fire tower, iconic ledge, quiet woods, large viewsand Hidden spots Full of Catskills characters.

These hikes are perfect for new hikers, anyone building fitness, or experienced people who just want shorter or have a solid reward.

We will introduce well-known classics such as Giant Ledge, Ashokan High Point and Tremper Mountain. All of this is popular for good reason. You'll get my opinion New Brali Mountain Fire Towerthe amazing ledge of the North Mountain, the scenic cycle to the Red Mountain.

Then, we dig deeper and see the lesser-known but more magical hikes. Thinking: Secret Summit, spectacular views and quiet bushes of huge souls. I'll take you there Places that most tourists will never find But I've come back again and again.

Want to hike the most meaningful off-peak hikes in Catskills. Here is the list you need. All killers, no filler. I hiked every one.

This is the best off-peak hike in Catskills

Ashokan High Point

Don't sleep on one of the most popular off-peak hikes in Catskills. A long and beautiful hike next to Kanape Brook passed some fantastic campgrounds including cathedral-style spruce tree stands. From the col behind the hollow, the mile to the top of the mountain is steep, but the Blueberries run on the other side of the loop is incredible. The Burroughs range also has a nice view when it comes out. Be aware of American chestnut trees all over the region; they are rootstocks these days and are waiting for a cure vaccine, which lowers them as they get older.

Giant ledge

Yes, it's the classic Catskills hike, but most people only have many spectacular views to visit the long ledges. Look for a calf herd trail away from the ledge. There are several, all of which lead to a long hilltop with multiple great camping sites on it. Camping here is a ritual that passes through.

Brali Fire Tower

Our newest fire tower opens in 2025 and it's an explosion. The summit itself is now amazing, and the view is another short hike. It is also nearby several wonderful towns of Catsky (Delhi), Roxbury, Stamford, Hobart) seven bookstore! – and Catskill Scenic Trail.

Tremper Mountain Fire Tower

Tremper is always a good time. The surrounding peaks and the fire tower of Ayushan Reservoir have a very good view. I prefer to come in from Jessup Trailhead and take a longer, quieter route.

Vroman's nose

A short hike among the Catskier people in the northernmost part of Albany. The perfect “dance floor” view from the flat valley below.

North and South Mountain

Short and relatively easy, you can't skip this hike to grab the classic Catskills view!

Overlooking the ruins and mountains

It's a super straight hike along the old passage. Honestly, that part is a bit boring. But the benefits near the top are multiple: 1) You will visit the incredible ruins of the Overlook Hotel that put out twice! 2) You will then see the best view twice in Catskills Park. 3) If you are lucky, you may see some rattlesnakes radiating on the top of the mountain at the summit.

Hongshan

One of the cutest downhill peaks in Catskills, this is also the most gorgeous summit. That's the solid view of the rolling West Cats shoes before you climb up the Fire Tower.

Less known as off-peak hike among cat scientists – but even more magical

Little is known about the next six hikes, but they are so big. Everyone offers a profound and memorable Catskills adventure. You won't get these views from the classic peak list.

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Hope you enjoyed this list of off-peak hiking and try it all These routes! Open a DM for me @totalcatskills If you like anything on this list.