Catskill Scenic Byway: Explore Scenic Driving Tour

Buckle up for an unforgettable journey through the Catskill Mountains. The Catskill Scenic Byway promises a captivating self-guided driving tour filled with vibrant fall foliage, quaint villages, and breathtaking vistas. Priced at just $16.99 per person, this immersive experience invites travelers to explore at their own pace, uncovering hidden gems along the way. From the serene Ashokan Reservoir to the thrilling Belleayre Mountain Gondola, every twist and turn unveils the region’s natural wonders. Where will the road take you?

Good To Know

• Self-guided tour along the 52-mile Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway, featuring quaint villages, scenic hikes, and breathtaking mountain vistas.
• Flexible cancellation policy, no upfront payment, and one-year validity for convenient planning.
• Immersive experience through the Action Tour Guide app, offering offline maps, audio stories, and a personal tour guide.
• Explore key attractions like the Ashokan Rail Trail, Ashokan Reservoir, and Belleayre Mountain Gondola, along with opportunities for farm-to-table dining and craft brews.
• Prepare for the tour by ensuring a charged smartphone, downloading the app, and accessing the tour’s unique password for a seamless experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

Visitors can embark on a self-guided tour of the captivating Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway, priced at just $16.99 per person.

This flexible adventure allows them to explore the route at their own pace, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is valid for a full year, so travelers can plan their journey whenever the mood strikes.

There’s no need to pay upfront, as adventurers can reserve their spot and settle the bill later.

With offline maps, audio stories, and a personal tour guide, this Catskill exploration offers an immersive and hassle-free experience.

Scenic Route Highlights

The 52-mile Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway winds through a captivating tapestry of quaint villages, scenic hikes, and local culinary delights.

Vibrant fall foliage and majestic mountain vistas beckon travelers to explore the region’s natural wonders. Key highlights include the serene Ashokan Rail Trail, the picturesque Ashokan Reservoir, the thrilling Belleayre Mountain Gondola, and the whimsical Emerson Kaleidoscope.

Adventurous hikers can enjoy trails boasting stunning viewpoints, while foodies savor the flavors of farm-to-table cuisine and craft brews.

Throughout the journey, the region’s vibrant arts scene and charming small-town character add a unique allure to this captivating self-guided tour.

Self-Guided Tour Details

Travelers embark on this self-guided tour by downloading the Action Tour Guide app, which serves as a personal guide, providing audio stories, and offline maps tailored to their location.

With a unique password received after booking, explorers can access the tour and set their own pace, pausing and resuming as they please.

Whether cruising along the scenic byway or taking a leisurely hike, the app’s hands-free audio content enhances the journey, offering insights and tales about the region’s highlights.

This flexibility allows visitors to customize their Catskill Mountains experience, ensuring they don’t miss a single breathtaking vista or charming local gem.

Itinerary and Unique Stops

The self-guided tour kicks off at the serene Ashokan Rail Trail, where visitors can soak in the tranquil vistas before venturing deeper into the Catskill Mountains.

Next, they’ll explore the Ashokan Reservoir, a picturesque spot for hiking, biking, and birdwatching.

Adventurers can then hop aboard the Belleayre Mountain Gondola for a scenic ride and panoramic views.

Along the way, they’ll discover quirky attractions like the Emerson Kaleidoscope and charming towns like Margaretville and Arkville, each with its own vibrant arts scene and farm-to-table delights.

The tour concludes at the Upper Esopus Fire Tower, where stunning mountain panoramas and historical insights await.

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Important Information and Requirements

To begin the self-guided tour, adventurers should head to the meeting point at 26731 NY-28 in Andes, New York.

There, they’ll need a charged smartphone, vehicle, downloaded Action Tour Guide app, and a power bank to access the unique password received after booking.

The flexible schedule allows using the tour on any day and multiple times over a year, so participants can explore the Catskill Scenic Byway at their own pace.

Should any questions arise, support is available via call, chat, or email.

With the necessary preparations in place, travelers can look forward to an immersive, adventurous journey through the stunning Catskill Mountains.

Explore Ashokan Rail Trail

After preparing for the journey, adventurers can kick off their Catskill Scenic Byway exploration at the Ashokan Rail Trail.

This scenic path winds through the serene landscape, offering breathtaking views of the Ashokan Reservoir. Meandering along the trail, hikers and cyclists will be treated to a tranquil oasis, surrounded by lush greenery and the occasional glimpse of wildlife.

The trail’s gentle inclines make it an accessible adventure for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. With each step or pedal, explorers can enjoy the natural beauty of the Catskills, setting the tone for an unforgettable journey along the Scenic Byway.

Discover Ashokan Reservoir

From the serene Ashokan Rail Trail, adventurers can easily access the sprawling Ashokan Reservoir, a true gem of the Catskill Mountains.

This massive man-made lake offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Hikers and bikers can explore the reservoir’s shoreline, taking in the stunning mountain vistas.

Birdwatchers delight in spotting a variety of feathered species that call the reservoir home.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful stroll or a more challenging trek, the Ashokan Reservoir promises a breathtaking journey through the heart of the Catskills.

Don’t miss the chance to learn about the natural beauty of this remarkable destination.

Experience Belleayre Mountain Gondola

Soaring high above the Catskill Mountains, the Belleayre Mountain Gondola transports adventurers on an awe-inspiring journey through the heart of this picturesque region. Ascending 2,739 feet, the 8-person gondolas offer breathtaking panoramic views of rolling peaks, lush forests, and pristine lakes.

Elevation	Ride Duration	Vertical Rise
2,739 ft	15 minutes	1,404 ft

Disembarking at the summit, thrill-seekers can explore hiking trails, dine at the on-site lodge, or simply bask in the serene mountain atmosphere. Whether visiting in the vibrant fall or during the snowy winter, the Belleayre Mountain Gondola promises an unforgettable experience amidst the captivating Catskill scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Buy the Tour as a Gift for Someone Else?

Yes, the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway tour makes a great gift. Customers can easily purchase the tour for someone else, and the recipient can use it anytime within a year at their own pace.

Is There an Option to Have a Guided Tour Instead?

Though the tour is self-guided, visitors can opt for a guided experience by contacting the tour provider. A local expert will lead the journey, sharing insider stories and ensuring travelers make the most of the Catskill Mountains’ natural beauty.

How Much Time Is Needed to Complete the Full Tour?

The full self-guided tour generally takes 4-6 hours to complete, allowing time to stop and explore the scenic highlights along the 52-mile route. Travelers can go at their own pace and revisit the tour multiple times over a year.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Route?

Along the route, there are ample opportunities to stop at quaint villages, local farms, and nature preserves that offer restroom facilities. Travelers can easily plan breaks throughout their self-guided journey to ensure comfort and convenience.

Can I Make Stops at Local Shops and Restaurants Along the Way?

Absolutely! The self-guided tour allows visitors to explore local shops, restaurants, and attractions at their own pace. With flexible scheduling, they can make stops along the way to discover the Catskill region’s vibrant arts, cuisine, and outdoor adventures.

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating journey through the Catskill Mountains with the Catskill Scenic Byway. Witness the vibrant fall foliage, quaint villages, and breathtaking vistas at your own pace. Explore the Ashokan Rail Trail, Ashokan Reservoir, and the Belleayre Mountain Gondola, all while immersed in the region’s natural beauty and charm. This self-guided driving tour offers an unforgettable adventure that’s sure to leave you awestruck.

You can check if your dates are available here: