If you are looking for the ultimate excuse to escape the city , we have some fantastic news.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has officially launched the 2026 Catskills Fire Tower Challenge.
This year, the beloved outdoor challenge is bigger than ever. Delaware County has debuted two brand-new climbing fire towers on Bramley Mountain and Mount Utsayantha, expanding the footprint of this scenic adventure.
It is the perfect opportunity to unplug, hit the trails, and soak in some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the state!
Conquer all eight historic towers
To complete the challenge, experienced hikers need to visit all eight designated fire towers scattered across the Catskills region.
You have from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026, to make the scenic treks. The official 2026 lineup includes:
- Balsam Lake Mountain (Hardenburgh)
- Hunter Mountain (Hunter)
- Overlook Mountain (Woodstock)
- Red Hill Mountain (Denning)
- Tremper Mountain (Shandaken)
- Upper Esopus Fire Tower (Catskills Visitor Center)
- Mount Utsayantha (Stamford) – New for 2026!
- Bramley Mountain (Delhi) – New for 2026!
How to submit your entry
Once you have successfully summited all eight locations, entering is simple. You just need to fill out a log of your completed hikes and include one favorite photo from your journey.
You can submit your entry digitally via SurveyMonkey, or you can download the 2026 PDF log and email it to catskillschallenge@dec.ny.gov.
Epic prizes and a “Leave No Trace” bonus
Everyone who finishes the challenge will receive a commemorative patch and an entry into a grand prize drawing.
If you are quick on your feet, the first 1,000 finishers will score a one-year subscription to the DEC’s Conservationist magazine, plus a second gift subscription to give to a friend!
Repeat finishers who have completed the challenge in previous years will even score an additional commemorative prize.
Want to increase your chances of winning? You can earn a bonus prize entry by submitting a photo of yourself practicing Leave No Trace principles on the trail.
Whether you are picking up litter, staying on the marked trail, carrying out trash, or properly preparing for your hike, snapping a photo of your good deeds will give you an extra shot at the grand prize!
Time to lace up those hiking boots, New York!