As the seasons change, there’s no better time to get outside and experience the natural beauty of the Sullivan Catskills. Whether you’re casting a line in a world-famous fishing stream or trekking through breathtaking trails, the region offers an outdoor escape like no other.
Fly Fishing: A Sullivan Catskills Tradition
Trout season has officially begun, and anglers from near and far are gearing up to explore the legendary waters of the Sullivan Catskills. With renowned fishing spots like the Beaverkill and Willowemoc Rivers, the east or west branches of the Delaware, and numerous creeks and streams, including the Callicoon, Mongaup, and Neversink. the area is a dream destination for both seasoned fishermen and first-time casters.
Not sure where to start? The region’s outfitters and guides offer everything you need for a perfect fishing adventure. Here are a few places to gear up before you hit the water:
- Trout Town Flies: Stock up on top-tier rods, reels, and hand-tied flies. Forgot your rod? No problem—they offer rentals, too!
- Dette Flies: With daily fishing reports and guided trips, Dette Flies is an angler’s paradise, providing access to hundreds of miles of pristine streams and rivers.
- Catskill Outdoorsman: Your go-to shop for all things outdoors, including fly fishing, hiking, skiing, and kayaking. Bonus: They also have an indoor archery range!
Looking to learn more about the history of fly fishing? Visit the Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum, where you can explore exhibits and nature trails that celebrate this beloved Catskills tradition.
Hiking: Trails for Every Adventurer
Lace up your boots and step into the heart of nature in the Sullivan Catskills, where hiking trails lead to stunning landscapes, panoramic views, and peaceful forested paths. Whether you’re looking for a challenging mountain climb or a gentle woodland walk, there’s a trail for every level of adventurer.
Not sure where to begin? Trailkeeper.org is a fantastic resource that lists all the hiking trails in Sullivan County, providing maps, trail lengths, intensity levels, and more to help you find the perfect route.
Before heading out, make sure you’re prepared with the right gear:
- Morgan Outdoors: Located in Livingston Manor, this shop specializes in custom-fitted footwear, outerwear, and everything you need for hiking, biking, and camping.
- Fortress Bikes: Sullivan County’s premier bike and recreational rental destination, offering bikes, trailers, and more to help you explore the region’s scenic trails.
Exploring Farmers Markets
As the weather warms, farmers markets across the Sullivan Catskills begin to open, offering an abundance of fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal goods, and handcrafted products. Strolling through these markets is a wonderful way to experience the region’s vibrant agricultural scene while picking up seasonal fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and unique crafts. Many markets also feature live music, workshops, and activities for all ages, making them a great outing for families and visitors alike.
Here are some of the farmers markets you can explore:
Barryville Farmers Market: Saturdays from May 17th–October 25th
Callicoon Farmers Market: Sundays, outdoors from April to November, indoors from December to March
Narrowsburg Farmers Market: Saturdays, May 17th–October 25th, rain or shine
Jeffersonville Farmers Market: Sundays, May 25th–August 31st
Kauneonga Lake Farmers Market: Saturdays from June 28th–September 6th
Liberty Farmers Market: Fridays from 3–6 PM
Livingston Manor Farmers Market: Sundays, from May–October
Mamakating Farmers Market: Fridays, from May–August
Rock Hill Farmers Market: Saturdays, 10 AM–1 PM, June 7th–September 27th
Roscoe Farmers Market: Sundays, from May–October, 10 AM–2 PM
Hotels with Outdoor Programming & Activities
Looking for a place to stay that offers outdoor activities right at your doorstep? These hotels provide unique outdoor experiences, from guided hikes to fly fishing excursions and more:
The Debruce– Enjoy an outdoor swimming pool and access to close to 600 acres across two mountains of trails for hiking, birding, and exploring on a private 5-mile trail system, designed by a local wood artist and trail expert. Guided hikes are offered as well!
Chatwal Lodge–Enjoy activites like hiking, biking, birdwatching, horseback riding, fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, all within the 18,000-acre property and surrounding Catskills region.
Rest Co.– Warm up in their year around heated pool! In addition to surrounding hiking trails.
Beaverkill Valley Inn– You can enjoy their 60′ heated pool, hiking and biking trails and fly fishing waters!
North Branch Inn– Relax in their outdoor hot tub, take a stroll in the gardens, enjoy fun yard games, and arrange for a fly fishing excursion on the property.
Roscoe Mountain Club– Enjoy lake fishing, golf, snowshoeing, tennis and pickle ball, cross-country skiing, swimming, fitness center, hiking, and more!
Antrim Streamside– Take a hike on their trails, enjoy private access to the Willowemoc for fishing and enjoy outdoor yoga.
Hemlock Neversink– Enjoy goat hikes, nature walks, tennis courts and much more!
Arnold House– Explore the grounds and hiking trails, enjoy therapeutic gardening activities, and enjoy their beautiful pool.
Kenoza Hall– Head on scenic hiking trails, enjoy their pool, in addition to lakeside activities.
