The 5 Best Day Hikes Near Livingston Manor (That Start Within 30 Minutes of Beaverkill Valley Inn)
Looking for scenic hikes in the Catskills? These five day hikes near Livingston Manor, NY, offer unforgettable views, forested trails, and fresh mountain air—just a short drive from Beaverkill Valley Inn.
The Catskills are home to some of the best hiking trails in New York State, and if you're staying at Beaverkill Valley Inn in Livingston Manor, you're perfectly positioned to explore the region’s natural beauty without spending hours in the car. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, panoramic views, or peaceful woodland trails, here are five top-rated day hikes—all within 30 minutes of the Inn.
Photo by Julienne Liebermann
1. Balsam Lake Mountain Fire Tower Trail
Distance from Inn: ~25 minutes
Trail Length: 6.0 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Fire tower, 360° views, shaded forest trail
This classic Catskills hike leads to one of the region’s iconic fire towers, offering sweeping views of the western Catskill Mountains. The trailhead starts from Mill Brook Road and takes you through a lovely hemlock and spruce forest before you ascend to the summit. The Balsam Lake Mountain Fire Tower is one of the easiest towers to access in the Catskills, making this a must-do for hikers of all levels.
Photo by Jack Plant
2. Frick Pond Loop (Willowemoc Wild Forest)
Distance from Inn: ~15 minutes
Trail Length: 2.2 miles loop
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Boardwalks, wetlands, mountain views
Looking for a peaceful, family-friendly hike near Livingston Manor? The Frick Pond Loop Trail offers a gentle walk through the Willowemoc Wild Forest, with varied scenery including dense woods, open wetlands, and mountain vistas. The well-maintained trail features boardwalks over marshy areas, making it accessible year-round. Great for birdwatching or a meditative morning walk.
3. Trout Pond and Mud Pond Loop
Distance from Inn: ~30 minutes
Trail Length: 5.3 miles loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Two serene mountain ponds, stream crossings, waterfall
This hidden gem near Roscoe offers a perfect mix of woods, water, and gentle elevation. You’ll hike past Trout Pond and Mud Pond, both of which are ideal for picnicking or a quiet break. In spring and early summer, a small waterfall cascades near the trail. It's a peaceful loop with fewer crowds than other Catskill hikes.
Little Pond State Park - Photo by Molly Stahl
SEO tip: Underrated hikes in the Catskills near Roscoe NY
4. Little Pond and Touch-Me-Not Mountain Loop
Distance from Inn: ~25 minutes
Trail Length: 5.9 miles loop
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Highlights: Lake views, mountain summit, backcountry feel
Little Pond Campground is the starting point for this rewarding loop that includes a climb up Touch-Me-Not Mountain. The trail passes by tranquil Little Pond, climbs steadily through lush forest, and offers a remote wilderness feel without being too far from civilization. You’ll earn some views along the way and enjoy the serenity of a less-traveled trail.
5. Beaverkill Covered Bridge to Beaverkill Campground River Trail
Beaverkill Covered Bridge -Photo by Molly Stahl
Distance from Inn: ~10 minutes
Trail Length: 1.0–2.0 miles (out & back)
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Historic covered bridge, fly fishing spots, river views
A perfect pre-breakfast or post-dinner stroll, this short riverside trail begins at the historic Beaverkill Covered Bridge, one of the oldest in the Catskills. Follow the footpath along the Beaverkill River, where anglers often cast for wild trout. Bring a camera—this area is postcard-pretty, especially in fall.
Trail Tips for Your Catskills Hike
Pack layers: Mountain weather changes fast
Bring water & snacks even for short hikes
Download offline maps (many trails have limited service)
Check trail conditions: Especially in early spring or after rain
Beaverkill River- Photo by Molly Stahl
Stay Close to the Trails at Beaverkill Valley Inn
After a day on the trail, return to Beaverkill Valley Inn for a fireside cocktail, locally sourced dinner, and a restful night in one of our 19 cozy guest rooms. Nestled along a private stretch of the Beaverkill River, our historic inn is the perfect basecamp for your Catskills hiking adventure. We also have miles of trails on-site!
Looking for something more custom? Ask us about trail recommendations based on your experience level and interests—we're happy to help you plan the perfect day hike.