The best running trails in Ulster County

Embark on the Undercliff & Overcliff Carriage Roads loop for a moderate jogging experience covering 5.2 miles (8.3 km). You will gain 465 feet (142 metres) in elevation, with an estimated duration of 1 hour and 3 minutes. As you jog, you'll enjoy wide-open views of the Wallkill River Valley and the Hudson River Valley from the Undercliff section, then shift to vistas of the Catskill Mountains and the Clove Valley on the Overcliff portion. Keep an eye out for rock climbers on the soaring cliffs you pass beneath, adding an interesting element to your run.

Before you head out, be aware that Mohonk Preserve charges a per-person fee for access, so plan accordingly. The route begins with a walk from the West Trapps parking lot to the actual trailhead. This initial section, while now a gravel path, can be steep, so factor that into your warm-up.

This loop follows historic carriage roads, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and a glimpse into the past. The presence of active rock climbers on the cliffs makes the experience particularly dynamic, setting this route apart from many others in the region. It's a great way to combine a good workout with scenic exploration and a touch of local history.

Prepare for a challenging jogging experience on the Overlook Spur Trail, a difficult route that spans 4.4 miles (7.1 km) and demands a significant 1296 feet (395 metres) of elevation gain. As you ascend, you will find yourself on an old gravel road, pushing through a continuous uphill climb. The journey, estimated to take around 1 hour and 6 minutes, offers glimpses of distant peaks and a rewarding sense of accomplishment as you conquer the terrain.

To begin your adventure, head to Woodstock, New York, where the trailhead is conveniently located. You will spot a Buddhist temple directly across the street from the starting point, making it easy to find. Remember that this trail offers little flat ground, so be ready for a sustained uphill effort from the moment you start. Plan your visit with this in mind to ensure you have enough time and energy for the entire route.

This trail is notable for its unique blend of natural beauty and intriguing history within the Overlook Mountain Wild Forest. A highlight is exploring the eerie concrete ruins of the abandoned Overlook Mountain House, which adds a distinct historical layer to your jog. Upon reaching the summit, you are greeted by the Overlook Mountain Fire Tower, providing expansive panoramic views of the Hudson River Valley and the majestic Catskill Mountains. Numbered utility poles along the way also help you track your progress.

The Gertrude's Nose and Millbrook Mountain Loop offers a moderate jogging experience across 6.8 miles (10.9 km) with an elevation gain of 864 feet (263 metres). You will find yourself jogging along dramatic cliff edges, especially near Gertrude's Nose, where the Shawangunk conglomerate rock formations are prominent. The route provides diverse scenery, moving through dense evergreen forests and past pitch pines growing directly from rock expanses. Allow about 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete this journey, taking in views of Lake Minnewaska and glacial erratics along the way.

When planning your visit, be aware that while the route is rated moderate for jogging, some sections are rugged and may require careful foot placement due to steep inclines, declines, and rocky terrain. The trail blazes are often painted on rocks, so pay close attention to navigation to stay on course. These conditions mean continuous jogging might be challenging in certain areas.

This loop is situated within Minnewaska State Park Preserve and is well-known for its expansive vistas. From various points along the trail, you can enjoy views of the Hudson River Valley and the Wallkill Valley. The unique geology, featuring ancient Shawangunk conglomerate cliffs and glacial erratics, makes this route a distinctive natural experience in the region.

Lace up your jogging shoes for the Hudson Valley Rail Trail and Walkway Over the Hudson, a moderate route that offers diverse scenery over 8.7 miles (14.0 km). You will gain 444 feet (135 metres) in elevation, typically completing the journey in about 1 hour and 27 minutes. Experience the unique sensation of jogging high above the Hudson River on the Walkway, where you can take in expansive views of the surrounding Highlands and Catskill Mountains. As you continue onto the Hudson Valley Rail Trail, the path leads you through lush hardwood forests, past Black Creek, and alongside interesting rock formations and historical elements like antique cabooses.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as both sections of the trail offer practical amenities for your convenience. You will find restrooms, picnic areas, and ample parking available at various points along the route. The Walkway Over the Hudson is open daily from 7 a.m. to sunset throughout the year, even being plowed in winter for continued access. Consider starting your jog earlier in the day to enjoy cooler temperatures and potentially fewer crowds, especially on weekends.

This route stands out for its blend of natural beauty and historical significance, offering more than just a workout. The Walkway Over the Hudson, a former railway bridge, provides a unique perspective on the river and its landscape, connecting communities on both sides. Its smooth, paved surfaces make it an ideal choice for a steady jogging pace, welcoming everyone from casual runners to those looking for a longer, scenic outing. The trail's accessibility, including ADA-compliant entrances and a seasonal elevator, ensures that many can enjoy this iconic Hudson Valley experience.

The Ashokan Promenade offers a refreshing jogging experience along a paved path, providing expansive views of the Ashokan Reservoir and the majestic Catskill Mountains. This moderate route covers 5.4 miles (8.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 161 feet (49 metres), making it a steady, low-impact option that you can complete in about 54 minutes. You will find yourself on the southern shore, enjoying panoramic water vistas as you move.

When planning your visit, remember that the Ashokan Promenade is entirely paved and accessible, suitable for various activities beyond jogging, such as walking or biking. There is minimal tree cover along the route, so be sure to plan for sun exposure and other elements, especially during warmer months. While dogs are not permitted on this specific trail, you can find dog-friendly options on the nearby Ashokan Rail Trail.

As you enjoy your time on the promenade, keep an eye out for local wildlife; bald eagles and deer are often spotted in this area, adding to the natural beauty of your outing. The trail's location within Catskill Park highlights its connection to a significant natural landscape, offering a peaceful escape with consistent scenic backdrops. This route stands out for its accessibility and continuous reservoir views.

The River-to-Ridge to Skytop Tower Loop presents a challenging jogging adventure, covering 18.2 miles (29.3 km) with a significant 1722 feet (525 metres) of elevation gain. This difficult route typically takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete. You will experience a dynamic shift in scenery, transitioning from easy gravel paths through working farmland to more rugged mountainous terrain, with expansive views opening up as you climb towards the iconic Skytop Tower.

Before you set out, be aware that access to the Mohonk Preserve generally requires a day pass, so plan your visit accordingly. This full loop demands very good fitness due to its length and substantial climbing. Be prepared for rugged sections, including potential boulder fields; if you plan to visit in winter, icy conditions can make certain parts particularly tricky.

This trail offers a diverse and picturesque journey, showcasing the majestic Shawangunk Ridge. As you ascend, the vistas become even more impressive, providing panoramic views of Mohonk Lake and the surrounding Catskill Mountains. The route provides a unique opportunity to explore both agricultural landscapes and the dramatic geology of the ridge.

Embark on a challenging jogging adventure along the Ashokan Rail Trail, a difficult route spanning 22.2 miles (35.7 km). You will experience a total elevation gain of 552 feet (168 metres), which typically takes around 3 hours and 41 minutes to complete. As you jog, you'll be treated to expansive views of the Ashokan Reservoir and the majestic Catskill Mountains, passing through serene woodlands and over a notable 525-foot boardwalk.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. You will find three public trailheads with convenient parking available, and portable, ADA-compliant restrooms are on-site. While the trail is not plowed in winter, it remains accessible for activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Feel free to bring your leashed dog along to enjoy the journey with you.

The Ashokan Rail Trail offers a unique opportunity to observe diverse wildlife, particularly various bird species such as American Bald Eagles and Great Blue Herons, especially near the Woodstock Dike Trailhead. The route winds through protected wetlands and dramatic rock cuts, showcasing the region's natural beauty and ecological diversity. It's a perfect choice if you are looking for a substantial workout combined with stunning scenery.

Embark on the Giant Ledge Trail, a moderate jogging route that winds for 3.0 miles (4.8 km) through the scenic Slide Mountain Wilderness. You will gain 789 feet (240 metres) in elevation, typically completing the journey in about 43 minutes. As you jog, expect varied terrain, from gradual inclines to steeper sections and even some rock scrambles, all leading to the trail's famous series of five distinct ledges that offer expansive views across the Catskill Mountains. You will pass through beautiful alpine and conifer forests, with glimpses of peaks like Slide Mountain and Woodland Valley from the viewpoints.

When planning your visit, be aware that the Giant Ledge Trail is a popular spot, especially on weekends, so consider arriving early to secure parking. The trail can be rocky and potentially wet in places, so wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for changing conditions. While no specific permits are usually required, always check local regulations before you head out.

This route is a key part of the larger Giant Ledge-Panther-Fox Hollow Trail system, offering you a taste of the region's extensive network. The trail's unique series of ledges makes it particularly notable, providing not just a physical challenge but also rewarding panoramic vistas that showcase the natural beauty of the Catskills. It is an excellent option if you are looking for a relatively short but impactful jogging experience with significant rewards.

Embark on the Verkeerderkill Falls and High Point Loop, a moderate jogging route that spans 8.6 miles (13.8 km) with an elevation gain of 842 feet (257 metres). You can expect to complete this diverse journey in about 1 hour and 29 minutes. The trail offers a captivating blend of runnable carriage roads and more challenging, rocky sections. As you jog, you'll pass through globally rare dwarf pitch pine barrens, experiencing varied landscapes. A highlight is the majestic 187-foot Verkeerderkill Falls, the tallest waterfall in the Shawangunk Mountains, providing a stunning visual landmark. You will also enjoy panoramic views from High Point, making for a rewarding experience.

When planning your visit, be aware that while much of the route is suitable for jogging, certain sections will require you to walk. These include areas with rock scrambles, steep descents, and generally rocky terrain. Specifically, navigating the Ice Caves involves stairs, narrow passages, and ladders, making continuous jogging impossible through these parts. You should plan for a varied pace and ensure you wear appropriate footwear to handle these challenging conditions. Always check for any park-specific regulations or seasonal closures before heading out.

This route stands out for its unique geological features and ecological significance within Minnewaska State Park Preserve. Beyond the impressive waterfall, you will encounter unique geological formations like the Ice Caves, which are known for retaining ice well into the summer months. The presence of globally rare dwarf pitch pine barrens adds to the distinct natural character of the area. This trail offers a chance to experience a truly special environment, blending natural beauty with a good physical challenge.