The Ultimate Ashokan Rail Trail Exploration Guide

While Emerson Resort & Spa is only a couple of hours outside Manhattan, you’ll feel like you’ve entered an entirely different world. Surrounded by the beauty of the Catskill Mountains, our Upstate New York resort is the ideal place to head when you need an escape from everyday life. For ultimate tranquility, disconnect and spend time on outdoor adventures like wandering the nearby Brunel Sculpture Garden or exploring the Ashokan Rail Trail.

What Is the Ashokan Rail Trail?

The idea for the Ashokan Rail Trail, ART, was first proposed in 2012 by Ulster County as a public 11.5-mile trail along the Ashokan Reservoir. A portion of the trail opened in October 2019, with the rest of the trail opening later that year. The ART is also part of eventually creating an interconnected trail system that would link the Walkway Over the Hudson and the Empire State Trail to Catskill Park.

What to Know about Hiking the ART

Open every day from dusk to dawn, this path is one of the best hiking destinations in the state. You can also go biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Before heading out on your adventure, take some time to read up on the rules of the trail.

• Dogs are allowed on the trail as long as they are leashed, and you clean up after them.
• Leaving the trail for other New York City Department of Environmental Protection property without an access permit is prohibited.
• Do not remove plants from the trail.
• Slower trail users should stay to the right.
• Biking is allowed on the trail, but please warn pedestrians and runners before passing them on the left.
• Port-a-potties are located at each of the three public trailheads.
• Download or print off the trail map before heading out.

One of the best things to do during your ART adventure is nature watching. More than 190 bird species call the trail home. Stop by the Front Desk and borrow a pair of binoculars and pick up a copy of our award-winning Birding at the Ashokan Rail Trail guide to bring with you.

Plan a Nature-Filled Catskills Getaway

Whether biking along a nearby trail or hiking the Ashokan Rail Trail, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy the outdoors when you stay at Emerson Resort & Spa. Our Mount Tremper resort is close to all the activities and attractions that make Upstate New York so unique.

Not only does our resort feature spacious accommodations, but the grounds are filled with fantastic amenities that will enhance any stay. Pamper yourself with treatments at Emerson Spa or reserve your spot for one of our nature-based curated experiences. For more information about our resort or special offers, call 845-688-2828.

All information is subject to change without notice. Please refer to individual websites for the most current information prior to your visit.