Catskill Stewards
Established in 2018 as a response to issues caused by overuse at the Peekamoose Blue Hole, the Catskill Stewards program has continued to grow. Now located at four high-use sites throughout the Catskills, and six Catskill Park Fire Towers, our Stewards work to help visitors understand the importance of responsible recreation in the outdoors. Each of our stewards are trained Leave No Trace educators and certified in Wilderness First Aid. They are the friendly faces visitors first encounter when they hit the trails.
Positioned in areas with high visitation rates, to date the Catskill Center’s Catskill Stewards have interacted with at least 373,983 people since the program began in 2018.
A Catskill Steward's main goal is to educate visitors on how to be more responsible and respectful visitors to the Catskill Park, like staying on marked trails, disposing of waste and litter properly, and taking heed to both bear safety and responsible camping.
As visitors continue to come to the Catskills in ever-increasing numbers, they bring with them the reminder that everyone needs the tools and skills necessary to enjoy the outdoors responsibly. When Stewards and Rangers are not present, litter increases, and so do impacts that harm water quality and natural resource protection.
The effects of heavy visitation continue to threaten public land in the Catskill Park and it is the duty of all people to be stewards of the land individually, to each do our part to keep these places the natural gems they are. This pursuit is an effort to keep our wild lands wild, for future generations to come.
Look for Catskill Stewards at…
Peekamoose Blue Hole
Since 2018
Due, in part, to its internet fame, the Peekamoose Blue Hole can see up to 1,000 visitors a day. This once pristine swimming hole is now threatened by impacts from overuse. Water contamination, litter, and lack of proper waste disposal are some of the biggest problems. Catskill Stewards work to educate visitors on these issues, as well as check day-use permits for the area. Stewards strive to make this area a place for all to enjoy and they emphasize the dangers of overuse.
Kaaterskill Falls
Since 2019
Standing at 260 feet, Kaaterskill is the tallest two-tier waterfall in New York State. It has attracted visitors for centuries — from Hudson River School painters in the 19th century to hikers and swimmers today. This location can see upwards of 3,000 visitors during a single weekend. With new and improved trails this area is better equipped to handle the large influx of visitors, however, due to its slippery and steep cliffs, it can be quite dangerous. Stewards at this location help to warn visitors of dangers in the area and guide them to appropriate trails. Education about staying on marked trails as well as bear activity are key themes for this beautiful location.
Platte Clove Preserve
Since 2019
This Catskill Center’s Platte Clove Preserve has been a refuge for artists going back to the 19th century. It offers wonderful views and gorgeous waterfalls. This is a popular location for hikers and climbers alike. Stewards of the Platte Clove educate visitors on our rules and regulations, offer guidance on trails, and help keep visitors safe by explaining the notorious dangers of the Platte Clove area.
The Devil’s Path
Since 2021
The Devil's path is a 24.2-mile stretch of trail that encompasses five. peaks. It is thought to be the most challenging hike in the Catskill region and considered by some to be one of the most dangerous hikes in the world. Our Ridge Runner Steward works on the trail educating hikers about responsible camping and bear safety, offering directions, and evaluating hikers’ health as needed.
Catskill Fire Towers
Since 2021
As an extension of our Fire Tower Project, the Catskill Fire Tower Stewards rotate among the Upper Esopus, Hunter, Overlook, Red Hill, Balsam Lake Mountain, and Mount Tremper Fire Towers. As part of the Catskill Fire Tower Challenge, these hikes attract a large number of visitors. Stewards at these locations not only ensure safety for those who climb the tower but also educate visitors on responsible hiking, trail etiquette, and Leave No Trace Principles like proper waste disposal and litter removal.
Catskill Center’s Thorn Preserve
Beginning 2024
Thorn Preserve is comprised of 60 beautiful acres in the Town of Woodstock, Ulster County. The preserve boasts the most painted views of Overlook Mountain. Sweeping grassland habitat, riparian forest and ponds make this spot a profoundly relaxing and peaceful area. Mowed walking paths are easily accessible from John Joy Road. Stewards at the Thorn Preserve educate visitors on our rules and regulations, offer guidance on trails, and help make sure dogs are kept leashed on the Preserve
Catskill Stewards
Provide guidance
Describe location-specific potentially harmful impacts
help visitors reduce their impacts and follow the tenets of Leave No Trace
HELP VISITORS RECREATE RESPONSIBLY
• Inform people of the most important rules and regulations
SERVE AS a resource for any questions people have about the Catskills
direct visitors to local communities
offer a warm welcome
With a continued awareness of the ever-shifting impacts facing the Catskill Park, our stewards strive to bring education to the growing number of visitors, so that we may all play a role in helping to preserve this beautiful area for everyone to enjoy.
CATSKILL STEWARD & OUTDOORS NEWS
The Catskill Stewards Program is made possible by the generous support of the Environmental Protection Fund, as administered by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Rondout Neversink Stream Program, REI Co-op, Bruderhof, Hunter Foundation, Catskill Mountain Club, and the generous supporters of the Catskill Center.
Your donation will make a difference for the Catskills!
The Catskill Stewards Program is made possible by the generous support of the Environmental Protection Fund, as administered by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Rondout Neversink Stream Program, REI Co-op, Bruderhof, Hunter Foundation, Catskill Mountain Club, and the generous supporters of the Catskill Center.
Special thanks to Maddison Prescott for our Kaaterskill Falls Photo.