About The Trail

The Catskill Scenic Trail

In a day and age where recycling has taken on paramount importance, the Catskill Scenic Trail (CST) offers an unusual variation on the term.

Utilized for many decades as a vital cog in the Catskill Region’s economy, the railroad line in this area eventually fell victim to the other modes of transportation that were deemed more economical.

Fortunately, the former rail line was viewed as having a new type of useful life as a “Rails to Trails” project. Through the generous financial support of several area organizations, work was begun in the 1990s to turn the path of the former Ulster & Delaware Railroad into a recreational trail that can be enjoyed year-round for horseback riding, bicycling, jogging, walking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The CST is also popular with “horse and carriage” enthusiasts who enjoy the wide path and smooth grade..

With its wide path, gentle grade and durable surface, the Catskill Scenic Trail has become an ideal recreational destination as it traces a leisurely path through stunning Catskill Mountain terrain. The CST is enjoyed year-round by thousands of folks in a variety of pursuits.

The CST is actually a companion project to the Delaware & Ulster Railroad scenic train ride that ferries passengers back into a simpler time on rides between and Arkville and Roxbury.

The Catskill Revitalization Committee was established to oversee the tourist train operation, which commenced in 1986. Over more than a quarter-century, the D&U has brought enjoyment to hundreds of thousands of passengers seeking “A Bit of History and A Lot of Fun.”

As the was thriving as a tourism attraction, plans were pondered as how to best utilize the vacant rail line from Roxbury, NY to Bloomville, NY. The nearly flat grade of this section of former rail bed made this area ideal the type of “rails to trails” project that was growing in popularity throughout the country.Funding was put in place by the Catskill Revitalization Committee and plans were drawn up to remove the old rails and ties. Brush was cut, the path suitably widened and a surface of compact cinders and dirt was put in place. The Catskill Scenic Trail was ready to begin its new life an perfect place for family-oriented recreation.

The hard-packed base is ideal for biking, hiking, cross-country skiing and horseback riding. The Catskill Scenic Trail has also become a popular destination for “horse and carriage” enthusiasts who appreciate the wide path and gentle grade.

To download a Catskill Scenic Trail map in PDF format, please click here.