Hiking the Catskills - Hiking Sloan Gorge in Woodstock
Looking for a scenic hiking spot near Woodstock, NY? The Sloan Gorge Preserve is a hidden gem just a short drive from the heart of Woodstock, offering an easy escape into nature with beautiful trails and fascinating geology.
Why Hike at Sloan Gorge Preserve?
If you're in Woodstock and craving a quick outdoor adventure, Sloan Gorge Preserve is a fantastic choice. This peaceful nature preserve features two scenic loop trails: the Quarry Loop Trail and the Sloan Gorge Loop Trail. With just over 1.5 miles of easy-to-follow trails, it’s perfect for families, casual hikers, and anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing walk through the woods without venturing too far from Woodstock.
Getting There & Trailhead Info
The Sloan Gorge Preserve is located at 487 Stoll Road in Saugerties, just minutes from Woodstock. The parking area includes a trailhead kiosk with maps and brochures to help guide your hike. Keep in mind that there are no restrooms or port-a-johns available, and if the parking lot is full, on-street parking is not allowed.
Trail Overview
From the trailhead, you’ll quickly reach the intersection of the two loops. We recommend starting with the Quarry Loop, which is the shorter of the two and takes you through the remants of a bluestone quarry that was active in mining the stone in the late 1800s. Then tackle the longer and even more interesting Sloan Gorge Loop, which leads you through a stunning rock gorge. As you hike, you’ll encounter fascinating rock formations, gentle terrain, and a few sections where you’ll need to navigate over scattered stones. One highlight is a short side trail that takes you through a narrow rock split, ending with a crawl-under passage before reconnecting with the main trail.
As the gorge becomes wetter with standing water, the trail climbs out and loops back toward the parking area, offering a scenic and peaceful return journey. With about 100 feet of elevation gain, it’s a relatively easy hike but provides enough variety to keep things interesting.
Trail Details:
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: ~1.5 miles (loop)
Elevation Gain: ~100 feet
Highlights: Rock formations, bluestone quarry, gorge walk, crawl-through rock passage
Make a Day of It in Woodstock
After your hike, take some time to explore Woodstock! Known for its artsy vibe, charming shops, and great cafés, Woodstock is the perfect place to unwind after a refreshing walk in nature. Whether you're grabbing a coffee, browsing art galleries, or just soaking in the town’s laid-back energy, it’s the ideal complement to your outdoor adventure.
Conservation & Land Management
The Sloan Gorge Preserve is managed by the Woodstock Land Conservancy, a local organization dedicated to preserving natural spaces in and around Woodstock. Their efforts help maintain these beautiful trails so visitors can continue to enjoy hiking in the Catskills for years to come.
Whether you're a Woodstock local or just visiting the area, the Sloan Gorge Preserve is a must-visit hiking spot. It’s the perfect way to connect with nature, discover fascinating geological features, and enjoy a peaceful retreat—all just minutes from the vibrant heart of Woodstock!
- Catskills Hiking Videos
- Catskill 3500 Peaks Challenge Videos
- Catskills Fire Tower Challenge Videos
- Best Catskills Loop Hikes Videos
- The NYNJ Trail Conference's Catskill Trails Map Set
- National Geographic's Trails Illustrated Map for the Catskill Park
- Catskill Trails Guidebook from ADK
- Hiking the Catskills Guidebook
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Important Hiking Considerations:
- Weather: Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for changes in conditions. Weather can be unpredictable, so bring appropriate clothing and gear.
- Safety: Some sections of the trail can be steep and rocky, so use caution and watch your footing. It's also a good idea to hike with a friend or let someone know about your hiking plans.
- Leave No Trace: As with any outdoor activity, remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Pack out any trash, stay on the trail, and be respectful of the natural environment.
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