Ashokan Rail Trail

The trail is predominantly flat and ADA compliant, making it accessible for a wide range of users. Its surface is made of highly compacted crushed stone, varying in width from 10 to 12 feet. While generally smooth and suitable for road bikes, some sections might have small pebbles. There is only one modest hump along its 11.5-mile length, meaning it's largely level.

Yes, the Ashokan Rail Trail is dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail's pristine condition for all visitors.

The trail offers beautiful scenery year-round. Spring brings fresh greenery, while summer is ideal for long rides. Autumn is particularly spectacular with vibrant fall foliage, making it a premier destination in the Catskills. Even in winter, it can be enjoyed for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, weather permitting.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Ashokan Rail Trail. It is freely accessible to the public. Similarly, there are generally no entrance fees for Catskill Park itself, though specific facilities or activities within the park might have associated costs.

The trail offers three public trailheads, each with ample parking. These are located at the eastern end (near Kingston), the central section (Boiceville), and the western end (near Phoenicia). Parking is free at all designated trailheads.

Cyclists are treated to spectacular and varied scenery. The trail traces the northern edge of the Upper Ashokan Reservoir, providing expansive views of the reservoir and the majestic Catskill Mountains. You'll also pass through lush woodlands, cross a 525-foot boardwalk over protected wetlands, and traverse the historic Glenford Dike and the reconstructed Boiceville Trestle over Esopus Creek. Interpretive signs detail the history of the railroad and reservoir.

Absolutely! The trail's predominantly flat and ADA-compliant nature, combined with its smooth, compacted crushed stone surface, makes it ideal for beginners and families. Its easy difficulty grade ensures an enjoyable experience for all skill levels, including those on road bikes.

Yes, the route primarily follows the Ashokan Rail Trail itself. You'll be on sections officially designated as the Ashokan Rail Trail for the majority of your journey, with a small portion also overlapping with the Woodstock Dike.

While the trail itself is a natural escape, the surrounding towns offer various amenities. You'll find cafes, restaurants, and other services in nearby communities like Shokan, Boiceville, and Phoenicia, which are easily accessible from the trailheads. It's a good idea to check specific opening hours before your visit.

The 11.5-mile (approximately 18.5 km) trail is generally considered an easy ride. For a typical road cyclist, completing the full out-and-back route (23 miles or 37 km) could take around 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

To fully appreciate the diverse scenery, consider starting at one end and cycling the entire 11.5 miles to the other. The views change subtly along the route, from open reservoir vistas to dense woodlands and the impressive Glenford Dike. Cycling the full length allows you to experience all the trail has to offer without missing any of its unique features.