The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Sullivan County

Komoot offers a selection of 4 dog-friendly hiking routes in Sullivan County, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures. These trails are perfect for exploring the region's natural beauty with your canine companion.

Sullivan County, nestled in the Catskill Mountains, offers diverse terrain. You'll find trails winding through dense forests, along scenic river gorges like the Neversink, and around numerous lakes and ponds. Many paths feature rolling hills, while others, like sections of the D&H Canal, are relatively flat. Expect a mix of natural surfaces, from dirt paths to rocky sections, suitable for various fitness levels.

Yes, for a shorter, easier walk, consider the Clark Lookout Trail. This easy route is just over 1 km long with minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for a quick outing or for dogs who prefer a less strenuous pace. The D&H Canal and O&W Rail Trail also offer accessible, flat sections perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Absolutely! Sullivan County is rich in water features. The Neversink River Gorge is home to impressive waterfalls like High Falls and Mullet Falls, and trails in this area often follow the river. Many routes also pass by beautiful lakes and ponds such as Frick Pond, Hodge Pond, and Mongaup Pond, offering scenic views and opportunities for your dog to enjoy the water (where permitted). The Butternut Pond Trail is a great option to experience a tranquil pond setting.

Yes, several dog-friendly trails in Sullivan County are designed as loops, providing varied scenery without retracing your steps. For example, the Frick Pond Loop and the Hodge Pond and Frick Pond Loop Trail are popular choices within the Willowemoc Wild Forest, offering beautiful forest and wetland views. The Packard Hill Covered Bridge – Mill Parcel loop from Lebanon is another moderate loop option.

While hiking with your dog in Sullivan County, you can encounter several interesting landmarks. The region is known for its historic covered bridges, such as the Prentiss Covered Bridge and the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge. You might also explore sections of the historic D&H Canal or the scenic Old Connecticut River Road. Many trails also offer stunning viewpoints of the Upper Delaware River Valley or the Catskill Mountains.

The dog-friendly trails in Sullivan County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful forest settings, the beauty of the numerous lakes and rivers, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable outings with their dogs. The opportunity to spot diverse wildlife, including various bird species, is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

Yes, for panoramic views, the Tusten Mountain Trail is highly recommended, offering stunning vistas of the Upper Delaware River Valley. Walnut Mountain Park in Liberty also provides a network of trails with great views of the Catskills. While not explicitly listed in the provided routes, many trails in the region will offer glimpses of the beautiful surrounding landscape.

Sullivan County offers great hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while summer provides warm weather for exploring lakes and rivers. Autumn is particularly spectacular with vibrant fall foliage, making it a popular time for scenic walks. Even winter offers unique beauty, though some trails may require snowshoes or microspikes. Always check local conditions before heading out.

For those seeking a longer, more moderate challenge, the Butternut Pond Trail spans over 9 km, offering a good workout through varied terrain. The Packard Hill Covered Bridge – Mill Parcel loop from Lebanon is another moderate option at nearly 12 km. These trails provide extended time in nature for you and your well-conditioned dog.

While Sullivan County is primarily accessed by car, some areas like the D&H Canal and O&W Rail Trail might have limited public transport options or be reachable by local taxi services from nearby towns. However, for most trailheads, especially those deeper in natural areas, personal vehicle transport is generally recommended for convenience and flexibility when hiking with a dog.

Sullivan County is home to diverse wildlife. Hikers and their dogs might spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, beavers, and various bird species, especially in wetland areas like the Bashakill Wildlife Management Area. While less common, black bears and coyotes also inhabit the region, so it's always important to keep dogs leashed and be aware of your surroundings.