Cross Country Skiing in Catskills

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The Catskill Mountains in New York offer a diverse range of cross-country skiing trails and experiences for skiers of all levels. From the 19-mile Catskill Scenic Trail to the groomed trails at Belleayre Mountain Ski Area, the Catskills provide a winter wonderland for cross-country enthusiasts.

What are the Popular Cross-Country Skiing Trails in the Catskills?

  1. Catskill Scenic Trail: This 19-mile trail stretches from Roxbury to Bloomville in Delaware County, offering multiple access points for customization.
  2. Rochester Hollow in Big Indian: Suitable for intermediate skiers, this trail provides excellent skiing opportunities.
  3. Belleayre Mountain Ski Area: Trails cater to both beginners and advanced skiers.
  4. Kelly Hollow in the Balsam Lake Mountain Wild Forest: This designated cross-country ski area is suitable for intermediate to advanced skiers.
  5. Mountain Trails Cross Country Ski Center: Located in Tannersville, NY, it offers 35 kilometers of quiet nature trails on hundreds of forested acres, groomed and track-set for various difficulty levels.
  6. Pineridge Cross Country Ski Area: Features 30 miles of groomed trails and backcountry skiing opportunities in the foothills of the Taconic and Berkshire Mountains.

Which Ski Resorts in the Catskills Allow Winter Hiking?

Cross Country Skiing in Catskills

  1. Belleayre Mountain Ski Area: Has separate snowshoe and cross-country trails when there is enough snow. The Cathedral Brook hiking trail runs adjacent to the Cathedral Brook ski trail, allowing hikers to reach the Sunset Lodge.
  2. Bromley in southern Vermont: The only ski area that allows hikers and snowshoers on a ski trail in winter, with one uphill route due to the Appalachian Trail crossing the mountain.

When Does the Cross-Country Skiing Season Start in the Catskills?

The typical season start for cross-country skiing in the Catskills depends on snowfall. Trails are usually open when there is enough snow, typically from late December to early March. The region experiences cold winters with significant snowfall, making it an ideal destination for cross-country skiing enthusiasts.

What are the Trail Lengths and Elevation Changes in the Catskills?

The Catskills offer a variety of trail lengths and elevation changes, catering to skiers of different skill levels and preferences. The trails range from shorter, flatter routes suitable for beginners to longer, more challenging trails with significant elevation changes for advanced skiers.

What are the Associated Costs for Cross-Country Skiing in the Catskills?

The costs for accessing cross-country skiing trails or resorts in the Catskills vary. Some areas offer free access, while others require trail fees or resort memberships.

Reference:
1. https://www.reddit.com/r/catskills/comments/zudx5e/are_there_any_ski_resorts_that_allow_hiking_up/
2. https://www.catskillmountainclub.org/outdoor-recreation-xc-skiing
3. https://www.greatnortherncatskills.com/outdoors/snowshoeing-xc-skiing

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