| Catskill Visitors Center | ||
5096 NY-28, Mt Tremper, NY 12457 | ||
| This week's featured hike brings us the the Maurice D Hinchey Interpretive Center. This is a very family friendly hike(s). There are a few short trails and you can easily do one or all of them in one visit. Esopus Creek Trail, Interpretive Loop Trail, and Upper Ridge Trail  We actually decided to start across the road, at the Esopus Creek Fishing Access site. We didn't do much of this trail, as the kids saw water and wanted to play.  Once at the visitors center, we started with the Interpretive Loop. This led us right to the fire tower. Since it was after hours, the top of the tower was locked, but we were able to climb most the way up.  The trail is a very easy trail and only about half a mile total. Along it you will find information panels. Read to learn the story of the Catskill Visitors Center and history of the Catskills.  The kids thought these giant garbage art balls were super cool! Before finishing this loop, we headed over the bridge to begin the Upper Ridge Trail. This was a little harder, as it goes up hill and along the ridge. The terrain varied, rocks, dirt, and steps. The hike was relatively easy, but definitely had areas where I held onto my fearless 3 year old. This trail is not a loop, and you will know you've reached the end when you get to the picnic area! We headed back down, and finished the Interpretive Loop around the property. There are a few areas on both trails with downed trees. We did have to climb over/under them. I am confident these will be taken care of and cleared out soon! Please remember that the ticks are out. We pulled at least 4 off of us during this hike. For your best chance to avoid tick bites, stay on the trail (brushing against trees and branches is how we got each of the ticks on this trip), wear light colored clothing so they are easier to spot, and do periodic tick checks on each other! | ||
Remember to always respect the world around you, including people and our trails. Learn about "Leave no Trace". My favorite LNT saying is "Take only pictures, leave only footprints". Leave the trails clean for our children to enjoy! | ||
Interested in checking out more of our weekend hikes? You can see them all on our Hiking Guide! |
