The best walks and hikes in Sullivan County
4.9
(5)
93
hikers
20
hikes
Hiking in Sullivan County offers a variety of trails primarily located around Bristol, Virginia, and within the Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee. The region features routes around lakes and reservoirs, through forested areas, and along river valleys. Its topography includes rolling hills and dense forests, providing diverse natural settings for outdoor activity. Hikers can explore paths ranging from gentle lakeside loops to more challenging mountain ascents.
Best hiking trails in Sullivan County
- The most popular hiking route is Steele Creek…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
7
hikers
23.5km
06:49
460m
910m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
2.36km
00:36
0m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
hikers
12.5km
03:32
250m
270m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
6.18km
01:53
210m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
7.19km
02:07
190m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10.00km
02:43
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
34.2km
08:51
180m
210m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.76km
01:28
210m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.88km
01:26
130m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
14
hikers
7.61km
02:07
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Steele Creek Lake is the centerpiece of Steele Creek Park. There are trails around the perimeter of the lake for hikers, as well as pedal boat rentals for those that wish to get out on the water.
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If you're looking for a hike in Damascus then you should start here in the city park. Not only does the Appalachian Trail pass through but so does the Virginia Creeper Trail. The Appalachian Trail will take you up to the ridgeline as you hike out of town, while the Virginia Creeper Trail sticks to the low ground and follows the creek through the valley.
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In 1907, Fred Johnson began acquiring land to establish a lake as a water source for the town. He later constructed a dam on the lake. The trail surrounds the reservoir, featuring picturesque bridges that provide stunning views.
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The Steele Creek Park Lake is the centerpiece of the park. The mountain biking and hiking trails circle around the lake on both sides and provide varying difficulties of trails and obstacles for riders. The Lakeside Trail is one of the flatter and smoother (thus more popular) trails in the park, but you can branch off of this trail in several different spots if you want a harder or longer hike.
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The Steele Creek Park Lake is the centerpiece of the park. The mountain biking and hiking trails circle around the lake on both sides and provide varying difficulties of trails and obstacles for riders. The Lakeside Trail is one of the flatter and smoother (thus more popular) trails in the park, but you can branch off of this trail in several different spots if you want a harder or longer ride.
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The Garden Mountain Lookout Tower serves as the main viewpoint on the Holston River Mountain ridge. You can actually walk up the steps and go into the lookout if you aren't too scared of heights. The long climb up to the lookout is worth the views you get out onto the river and into Virginia. There are a handful of trails in Bays Mountain Park, and all of them are super well-kept. This is one of the best places to go mountain biking in the area; just be aware that there is a $7 day use fee.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of hiking trails can I find in Sullivan County, New York?
Sullivan County, nestled in the Catskill Mountains, offers a diverse range of hiking experiences. You'll find trails traversing dense forests, winding along numerous lakes and ponds, and following river valleys with waterfalls. Options range from gentle lakeside paths and historic rail trails to more challenging mountain ascents with panoramic views.
Are there trails suitable for beginners or families with children?
Yes, Sullivan County has many easy and family-friendly options. Trails like the The Damascus Brewery via the Virginia Creeper Trail offer gentle, accessible paths. The O&W Rail Trail and D&H Canal Towpath are also excellent choices, providing flat, scenic routes through natural beauty and historical sites, with some sections being ADA-accessible.
Where can I find trails with panoramic views in Sullivan County?
For stunning panoramic views, consider trails leading to higher elevations. Walnut Mountain, the second-highest peak in Sullivan County, offers expansive vistas. The Jensen Ledges Trail provides sweeping views of the Delaware River Valley after a rewarding climb. Additionally, Balsam Lake Mountain features a fire tower at its summit, offering breathtaking scenery.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls?
Yes, Sullivan County is home to several trails with beautiful waterfalls. The Neversink River offers routes with multiple cascades, such as the Mullet Falls – Neversink River Waterfalls loop. You can also find the Blue Hole Falls Trail, which leads to a scenic waterfall.
What are some popular circular hiking routes in the area?
Many trails in Sullivan County are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. Popular circular routes include the Frick Pond Loop in the Willowemoc Wild Forest, known for its wetlands, and the Hodge Pond Loop. The Steele Creek Lake loop via Lakeside Trail is another moderate option that circles a scenic lake.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Sullivan County?
Many trails in Sullivan County are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park or trail regulations before you go. Generally, trails in state forests and parks allow leashed dogs. The O&W Rail Trail and D&H Canal Towpath are usually good options for walking with your canine companion.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while hiking?
Sullivan County's diverse ecosystems, including dense forests, wetlands, and river valleys, support a rich variety of wildlife. Birdwatchers will particularly enjoy areas like the Frick Pond Loop and Bashakill Wildlife Management Area. You might also spot deer, various small mammals, and a wide array of plant life.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks along the trails?
Yes, the region has a rich history. The D&H Canal Towpath combines natural beauty with 19th-century canal history. The Beaverkill Covered Bridge Trail offers a scenic walk near one of New York's oldest covered bridges. You can also explore areas like the Tusten Mountain Trail Loop, which passes by old quarries and mines.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Sullivan County?
The hiking experiences in Sullivan County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 3 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from serene lake paths to challenging mountain ascents, and the natural beauty of the Catskill Mountains and Delaware River Valley.
How many hiking routes are available in Sullivan County?
There are over 20 hiking routes available in Sullivan County, offering a wide range of distances and difficulties. These include easy walks, moderate loops, and more challenging ascents, ensuring options for every skill level.
Are there any trails near lakes or reservoirs?
Absolutely. Sullivan County features numerous lakes and ponds with trails circling them. Examples include the Mongaup River trails, Hodge Pond Loop, and the Bays Mountain Reservoir loop from Bays Mountain Dam. Mongaup Pond, the largest body of water in the Catskill Park, also offers extensive hiking around its campground and into the Willowemoc Wild Forest.
What is the best time of year to hike in Sullivan County?
Each season offers a unique experience. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while summer is ideal for enjoying the lakes and rivers. Autumn is particularly popular for its vibrant fall foliage. Even winter hiking can be rewarding, with snow-covered landscapes, though some trails may require appropriate gear.
Are there any specific attractions or points of interest I should look out for?
Beyond the trails themselves, you can explore several points of interest. Consider visiting Bays Mountain Reservoir or Steele Creek Lake for scenic views. The Holston Mountain Fire Tower offers incredible vistas, and Warriors' Path State Park provides additional recreational opportunities.
Most popular routes in Sullivan County
Most popular attractions in Sullivan County
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