Hiking the Andes Rail Trail

The Andes Rail Trail is an easily accessible Catskills hiking experience in an idyllic setting—ideal for individuals, families, and second-home owners of all ages looking to get a feel for life on the mountain side of Upstate New York.

The trail begins at the beautifully restored pergola and gate at 266 Depot Street, at the historic Andes Train Station. As you pass the 1907 Depot Building, you’re walking directly through local history—an immediate introduction to the character and charm that make Andes such a desirable place to live, weekender or full-time.

The first section of the trail follows the old rail bed for one very flat mile (2 miles round trip). This gentle stretch offers a peaceful combination of open fields, woodlands, and long mountain views—an excellent way to experience the landscape that surrounds many nearby homes and country properties.

In June 2013, the Bullet Hole Spur was added, extending the trail by an additional 2 miles and bringing the total walk to approximately 4 miles round trip. This section climbs the ridge above the rail bed and leads hikers through mature hardwood forest, open woodland floors carpeted with ferns and princess pine, an older pine plantation, and striking hemlocks that tower above Bullet Hole Creek. The Spur is more strenuous, with a couple of well-designed, moderately steep sections followed by more level stretches—natural “breaks” that make the climb achievable for most reasonably active hikers. Along the way, there are expansive views of the Tremperskill Valley, showcasing the kind of unspoiled scenery that defines Catskill country living.

Andes Rail Trail Hiking Guide

The Andes Rail Trail (ART) begins at the restored Andes Train Station. This easy-to-moderate, out-and-back hike totals about four miles. It follows the old rail bed for roughly 0.8 miles until it meets private property. This initial section is flat, wide, and particularly scenic, overlooking the Tremperskill Valley. A few short detours are provided for use in wet conditions, maintaining accessibility while preserving the trail’s natural setting. Along the way, you’ll find several viewpoints, including one over a beaver pond created by the resident beavers—an everyday reminder that in the Catskills, wildlife is truly part of the neighborhood.

From the rail bed terminus, the trail turns west (right) and uphill onto the Bullet Hole Spur, climbing the slopes of Hemlock Knoll. This segment is moderate in difficulty, with some short but fairly steep ups and downs that offer a good feel for the region’s varied terrain without requiring technical hiking skills.

After a short ascent, the trail turns north (right), and after about 0.1 miles makes a sharp switchback to begin a steeper section. This portion passes rock formations and glacial erratics in a mixed hardwood forest—a quiet, contemplative stretch that many locals consider one of the area’s hidden gems.

The height of land is reached in about 0.2 miles. From there, the trail begins to descend, soon arriving at a graceful fern glade. Just past the glade, a historic stone wall appears. The trail makes a sharp turn south and steps up and over the wall—an evocative reminder of the region’s agrarian past and long-settled landscapes.

Ahead lies a large spruce plantation. The trail continues straight through a line of trees, then opens to classic Catskill views of the adjacent field and hills beyond. Here it bears slightly right and descends toward a beautiful grove of old hemlocks, the kind of mature forest cover that contributes to the area’s enduring appeal and sense of permanence.

After crossing the remnants of another stone wall, the trail again swings right and loops through the hemlocks. Bullet Hole Creek (on private land) can be heard and occasionally glimpsed to the left of the trail, adding the sound of moving water to the experience—something many buyers specifically seek in Catskill properties.

As you walk through the hemlock forest, pay careful attention to the markers. You’ll come to a point where the trail turns north (right). Continuing straight would enter private land, so please respect posted boundaries—an important part of maintaining the balance between recreation and rural living in this community. The trail soon crosses a largely flattened stone wall before reclimbing the hill through the spruce trees and returning to the stone-wall step-up crossing. From this point, you simply retrace your steps back to the parking area at the station.

Level of Difficulty 

Very Easy

The first mile (2 miles round trip) is flat, traveling on the old rail bed. This portion is accessible for most ages and fitness levels, and is a perfect “preview walk” for those exploring whether the Andes area suits their lifestyle.

Moderate

The second mile climbs up Hemlock Knoll with a crafted switchback and stone steps in places, ending above Bullet Hole Creek. This is a moderate climb that brings the total trail distance to approximately 4 miles round trip. It’s well within reach for active adults and families, and offers a rewarding sense of elevation and perspective on the surrounding valley—much like the higher-elevation homes and properties nearby.

Trail Conditions

- Natural surface: grass, dirt, roots, stones, and occasional mud

- Old track ties can still be felt underfoot in several stretches, adding character and a tangible link to the region’s rail history

- A small bog boardwalk spans the muddiest area, helping to protect both hikers and habitat

- Expect wet and muddy spots during rainy or snowy periods—typical of Catskill trails and part of the authentic, four-season mountain experience

Whether you’re considering a move, a weekend retreat, or simply exploring, the Andes Rail Trail offers an accessible, real-world introduction to the landscape, pace, and quiet beauty that define Catskill country living.