Home › New York › Saugerties › Kaaterskill Wild Forest
Kaaterskill Wild Forest
4.8 ★★★★★ 984 Google reviews · Running trail in Saugerties, New York · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Kaaterskill Wild Forest's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Rustic natural area with year-round activities, including camping, boating, hiking & snowmobiling.
What runners say about Kaaterskill Wild Forest
“The forest is clean, well-maintained, and clearly cared for, making it a great spot for families or anyone looking for a peaceful retreat.”
“If you hike all the way up there’s a terrific outlook post where you can see the falls and the mountain range which is absolutely gorgeous.”
“The trails are well-marked and suitable for all levels, whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a relaxed walk.”
“You'll find plenty of quiet spots with beautiful views, streams, and wildlife along the way.”
“The trails are well-marked and suitable for all levels, whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a relaxed walk.”
This place is amazing. What a fun day out adventuring! Started low and ventured for hours along the katterskill creek in the gorge to the top of the falls! Easily top three experiences I've had in America. Top two maybe.
It’s a beautiful waterfall accessible from many trails which lead to upper and lower waterfalls. For the lower waterfall the trail is easy while going and moderate while coming back because of the steps you need to climb. They have ample of parking space. Pets are allowed.
What a lovely hike. The waterfalls are huge and beautiful, especially after some rain. Lots of dogs taking the hike. Our dog loved it too. Beautiful falls to explore from all sides. Peaceful and fun, all the same. Not too challenging, except for climbing the first few stairs back from the falls. Taking breaks helps!
Fun place to bring your family. A hike of 0.5miles to view the falls. Best suited for age 6 and above. Use a hiking stick for better grip, as the path is sometimes slippery. Can spend an avg time of 1-3 hrs here. Limited parking available near by.
Trail conditions & character
“It’s a beautiful waterfall accessible from many trails which lead to upper and lower waterfalls.”
“Laurel road parking is capacity controlled by park rangers.”
“For the lower waterfall the trail is easy while going and moderate while coming back because of the steps you need to climb.”
“The trails are well-marked and suitable for all levels, whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a relaxed walk.”
“Very dog friendly, just watch out for ticks, there's tons of them!”
“You'll find plenty of quiet spots with beautiful views, streams, and wildlife along the way.”
Plan your run at Kaaterskill Wild Forest
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitedec.ny.gov
Hours
| Monday | 7:30 AM–8:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 7 AM–8 PM |
| Wednesday | 7 AM–8 PM |
| Thursday | 7:30 AM–8:30 PM |
| Friday | 7:30 AM–8:30 PM |
| Saturday | 7:30 AM–8:30 PM |
| Sunday | 7:30 AM–8:30 PM |
Running trails near Saugerties
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Kaaterskill Rail Trail
4.8 ★★★★★ 109 reviews
Trail running from a former railway station to a waterfall, with a scenic overlook.
Platte Clove Preserve - Catskill Center
4.8 ★★★★★ 184 reviews
Privately owned park featuring hiking trails, waterfalls and scenic overlooks.
