Winter in the city usually means dodging gray slush puddles and fighting for a spot on the ice at Rockefeller Center, but there’s a massive 15,000-acre wonderland just two hours away that feels like a literal Narnia.
If you’re looking for some actual peace and quiet and maybe even a little side of winter adventure, Willowemoc Wild Forest is the hidden gem you didn’t know you needed.
Most people stick to the same three “famous” hikes when they head upstate, but the real ones know the southwest corner of the Catskills is where the actual peace is hidden.
Willowemoc Wild Forest is basically a massive, 15,000-acre playground for anyone who doesn’t mind a bit of a challenge in exchange for total solitude.
Between the frozen ponds and the miles of quiet, snow-covered trails, it’s the kind of winter escape that makes you realize just how much of New York is still waiting to be discovered.
A true backcountry vibe without the 5-hour drive
While everyone else is clogging up the trails at Minnewaska, Willowemoc stays low-key and rugged.
It’s known for being a total hotspot for local wildlife, so don’t be surprised if you spot some white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, or even a beaver lodge while you’re trekking through the pines.
It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like a legit explorer, even if you’re just there for the Instagram views.
The landscape is pretty hilly, so it’s the perfect spot for an intermediate hiker who wants a bit of a challenge.
You can explore the whole forest on foot, but it really shines as a destination for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing when the powder is fresh. It’s a great alternative if you’ve already tackled the Long Path winter trail and want something a bit more secluded.
The trails you need to hit
You don’t have to be an expert woodsman to enjoy this place, but you should definitely have a plan going into it.
These are the two loops that offer the most bang for your buck:
- Frick Pond Loop: This is the scenic 2.1 mile route that takes you right to the edge of the water! The views of the frozen pond are top-tier, and the surrounding forest is incredibly still and quiet.
- Hodge Pond Loop: If you’re looking for a longer trek, take the Flynn Trail toward Hodge Pond. It’s a bit more of a workout, but it leads you through protected forestland and past some of the most secluded water in the region.
The whole area feels incredibly remote, especially when you stop by Waneta Lake for a quick breather. It’s the kind of “secret” spot that makes you forget you were just in Midtown a few hours ago.
Make it a full day trip in Livingston Manor
The best part about a trip to Willowemoc is that you’re right next to Livingston Manor, which is arguably one of the coolest towns in the Catskills right now.
You can’t drive back to the city without hitting up The Walk In for a massive biscuit sandwich or grabbing a post-hike brew at Upward Brewing Company. Their taproom has huge windows and a fire pit, which is exactly where you’ll want to be after a day in the woods.
What to know before you go!
- Distance from NYC: About 2 hours and 15 minutes by car.
- The vibe: Rugged, quiet, and very “into the woods.”
- Pro Tip: There is almost zero cell service once you get deep into the forest, so download your maps ahead of time.
- Gear: Bring your microspikes or snowshoes if it’s been snowing—those hills are no joke in the winter.