The best walks and hikes in Sullivan County
4.7
(6)
93
hikers
19
hikes
If you've ever tried to plan hiking in Sullivan County, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails out there, it's tough to tell which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has explored, mapped, and reviewed these routes, giving you a curated shortlist of the best hikes that truly deliver. We're here to save you the guesswork and point you…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.0
(1)
7
hikers
23.5km
06:49
460m
910m
Embark on a classic Appalachian Trail experience from TN-421 to Damascus, a journey that weaves through varied forest terrain and along scenic ridge lines. You'll encounter sections of 'amazing ridge…
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
2.36km
00:36
0m
10m
The Osceola Island Loop offers a delightful escape into nature, tracing the banks of the South Holston River on a flat, well-maintained gravel path. You'll be treated to continuous riverside…
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3
hikers
12.5km
03:32
250m
270m
The River Mountain Road and Chestnut Trail Loop offers a satisfying moderate hike through the Kingsport landscape. You'll traverse 7.8 miles (12.5 km) with 835 feet (254 metres) of elevation…
2
hikers
6.18km
01:53
210m
180m
The Sinks Way Trail to East Ridge Trail Loop offers a dynamic hiking experience in Steele Creek Park, featuring a challenging ascent followed by scenic ridge views. You'll navigate a…
1
hikers
7.19km
02:07
190m
210m
The Powerline Trail and Lakeside Trail Loop offers a dynamic hiking experience, blending the open, expansive views typical of powerline corridors with the tranquil, water-adjacent paths of a lakeside trail.…
10.00km
02:43
140m
140m
The Chestnut, Big Oak and Chinquapin Trail Loop is a moderate 6.2 miles (10.0 km) hike that offers a delightful journey through diverse forest types. You'll wander through shaded sections…
34.2km
08:51
180m
210m
The Kingsport Greenbelt offers a surprisingly long but easy hiking experience, stretching 21.3 miles (34.2 km) with a gentle 575 feet (175 metres) of elevation gain. This multi-use paved path…
4.76km
01:28
210m
100m
The Lake Ridge Trail to Cross Ridge Trail Loop is an easy 3.0-mile (4.8 km) hiking route that offers a delightful mix of terrain and scenery, perfect for a quick…
4.88km
01:26
130m
140m
This easy 3.0-mile (4.9 km) hike, the Bays Ridge Trail to Front Hollow and Lake Road, offers a delightful mix of scenery within Bays Mountain Park, taking about 1 hour…
4.7
(3)
14
hikers
7.61km
02:07
140m
140m
The Steele Creek Lake loop via Lakeside Trail offers a picturesque journey through varied terrain, centered around the beautiful 52-acre Steele Creek Lake. You'll traverse well-maintained packed gravel paths with…
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Tips from the Community
Steele Creek Lake is the centerpiece of Steele Creek Park. There are trails around the perimeter of the lake for hikers, as well as pedal boat rentals for those that wish to get out on the water.
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If you're looking for a hike in Damascus then you should start here in the city park. Not only does the Appalachian Trail pass through but so does the Virginia Creeper Trail. The Appalachian Trail will take you up to the ridgeline as you hike out of town, while the Virginia Creeper Trail sticks to the low ground and follows the creek through the valley.
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In 1907, Fred Johnson began acquiring land to establish a lake as a water source for the town. He later constructed a dam on the lake. The trail surrounds the reservoir, featuring picturesque bridges that provide stunning views.
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The Steele Creek Park Lake is the centerpiece of the park. The mountain biking and hiking trails circle around the lake on both sides and provide varying difficulties of trails and obstacles for riders. The Lakeside Trail is one of the flatter and smoother (thus more popular) trails in the park, but you can branch off of this trail in several different spots if you want a harder or longer hike.
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The Steele Creek Park Lake is the centerpiece of the park. The mountain biking and hiking trails circle around the lake on both sides and provide varying difficulties of trails and obstacles for riders. The Lakeside Trail is one of the flatter and smoother (thus more popular) trails in the park, but you can branch off of this trail in several different spots if you want a harder or longer ride.
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The Garden Mountain Lookout Tower serves as the main viewpoint on the Holston River Mountain ridge. You can actually walk up the steps and go into the lookout if you aren't too scared of heights. The long climb up to the lookout is worth the views you get out onto the river and into Virginia. There are a handful of trails in Bays Mountain Park, and all of them are super well-kept. This is one of the best places to go mountain biking in the area; just be aware that there is a $7 day use fee.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of hiking trails can I find in Sullivan County, New York?
Sullivan County, nestled in the Catskill Mountains, offers a diverse range of hiking experiences. You'll find trails traversing dense forests, winding along numerous lakes and ponds, and following river valleys with waterfalls. Options range from gentle lakeside paths and historic rail trails to more challenging mountain ascents with panoramic views.
Are there trails suitable for beginners or families with children?
Yes, Sullivan County has many easy and family-friendly options. Trails like the The Damascus Brewery via the Virginia Creeper Trail offer gentle, accessible paths. The O&W Rail Trail and D&H Canal Towpath are also excellent choices, providing flat, scenic routes through natural beauty and historical sites, with some sections being ADA-accessible.
Where can I find trails with panoramic views in Sullivan County?
For stunning panoramic views, consider trails leading to higher elevations. Walnut Mountain, the second-highest peak in Sullivan County, offers expansive vistas. The Jensen Ledges Trail provides sweeping views of the Delaware River Valley after a rewarding climb. Additionally, Balsam Lake Mountain features a fire tower at its summit, offering breathtaking scenery.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls?
Yes, Sullivan County is home to several trails with beautiful waterfalls. The Neversink River offers routes with multiple cascades, such as the Mullet Falls – Neversink River Waterfalls loop. You can also find the Blue Hole Falls Trail, which leads to a scenic waterfall.
What are some popular circular hiking routes in the area?
Many trails in Sullivan County are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. Popular circular routes include the Frick Pond Loop in the Willowemoc Wild Forest, known for its wetlands, and the Hodge Pond Loop. The Steele Creek Lake loop via Lakeside Trail is another moderate option that circles a scenic lake.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Sullivan County?
Many trails in Sullivan County are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park or trail regulations before you go. Generally, trails in state forests and parks allow leashed dogs. The O&W Rail Trail and D&H Canal Towpath are usually good options for walking with your canine companion.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while hiking?
Sullivan County's diverse ecosystems, including dense forests, wetlands, and river valleys, support a rich variety of wildlife. Birdwatchers will particularly enjoy areas like the Frick Pond Loop and Bashakill Wildlife Management Area. You might also spot deer, various small mammals, and a wide array of plant life.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks along the trails?
Yes, the region has a rich history. The D&H Canal Towpath combines natural beauty with 19th-century canal history. The Beaverkill Covered Bridge Trail offers a scenic walk near one of New York's oldest covered bridges. You can also explore areas like the Tusten Mountain Trail Loop, which passes by old quarries and mines.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Sullivan County?
The hiking experiences in Sullivan County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 3 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from serene lake paths to challenging mountain ascents, and the natural beauty of the Catskill Mountains and Delaware River Valley.
How many hiking routes are available in Sullivan County?
There are over 20 hiking routes available in Sullivan County, offering a wide range of distances and difficulties. These include easy walks, moderate loops, and more challenging ascents, ensuring options for every skill level.
Are there any trails near lakes or reservoirs?
Absolutely. Sullivan County features numerous lakes and ponds with trails circling them. Examples include the Mongaup River trails, Hodge Pond Loop, and the Bays Mountain Reservoir loop from Bays Mountain Dam. Mongaup Pond, the largest body of water in the Catskill Park, also offers extensive hiking around its campground and into the Willowemoc Wild Forest.
What is the best time of year to hike in Sullivan County?
Each season offers a unique experience. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while summer is ideal for enjoying the lakes and rivers. Autumn is particularly popular for its vibrant fall foliage. Even winter hiking can be rewarding, with snow-covered landscapes, though some trails may require appropriate gear.
Are there any specific attractions or points of interest I should look out for?
Beyond the trails themselves, you can explore several points of interest. Consider visiting Bays Mountain Reservoir or Steele Creek Lake for scenic views. The Holston Mountain Fire Tower offers incredible vistas, and Warriors' Path State Park provides additional recreational opportunities.
Most popular routes in Sullivan County
Most popular attractions in Sullivan County
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