Catskill Center's Hike for the Catskills Kicks Off August 13
Get ready for a summer hiking challenge and help preserve the Catskills as the Catskill Center offers “Hike for the Catskills.” The four-week challenge involves setting a campaign goal and then hitting the trails.
“From practically unlimited vistas from our highest mountain peaks, to the immersive forest solitude in our remote creek valleys, the Catskills have a plethora of beautiful areas to explore and enjoy. With 'Hike for the Catskills,' it is our sincere hope that folks take the time to enjoy our mountains and trails in a respectful way,” said Jeff Senterman, Executive Director of the Catskill Center. “‘Hike for the Catskills’ is the perfect way to blend together outdoor recreation, exploration of our amazing forever wild Catskill Park, and raising funds for the Catskill Center to do the important work of protecting our beautiful Catskills.”
"Hike for the Catskills" is an opportunity to explore natural beauty and help us protect critical Catskills habitats, keep our land and waters wild, and advocate for our communities and the Catskill Park. We aim to raise $15,000 with this event. Register here.
The Catskill Center has provided some suggested hikes, including ones for all abilities, from level paths to ones around 3,500 feet. Some of the paths are accessible to individuals who use wheelchairs, including those at our Catskills Visitor Center.
There will be guided hikes at points throughout the four-week challenge, including two hikes on kickoff day, Saturday, Aug 13 — one up Hunter Mountain to the fire tower, another to Diamond Notch Falls. There is a launch party at West Kill Brewing the same day, and registrants will receive a drink ticket, though the invitation is open for others to also be on hand for the second release of “Mountain Life” Pale Ale, a collaboration between West Kill Brewing and Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS). A portion of ale sales will benefit the Catskill Center. EMS also will be raffling outdoor gear during the launch party, to benefit the Catskill Center.
Since 1969, the Catskill Center has led the effort to protect the more than 700,000 acres of the Catskill Park and Catskill Forest Preserve. Our mission is to protect and foster the environmental, cultural, and economic well-being of the Catskill region.