Winter has a way of making simple plans feel complicated.
You wake up, look outside, and start running through questions. Is it too cold? Is the trail icy? Do I have the right gear? Should I even bother?
Before long, the idea of getting outside feels like more work than it’s worth. The window closes. The day moves on. And the fresh air you were hoping for stays just out of reach.
The truth is, winter doesn’t need to be a barrier. You don’t need to over-prepare or solve every variable ahead of time. You just need to be comfortable enough to enjoy yourself. When warmth, balance, and ease are taken care of, the rest tends to fall into place.
That’s what we help people do at Camp Catskill every day.
Comfort Is the Point
Winter outings aren’t about pushing limits. They’re about staying warm, steady, and relaxed enough to actually enjoy being outside. When people struggle in winter, it’s rarely because the weather is extreme. It’s usually because something small is off. Cold feet. Numb fingers. Slipping on ice. Layers that trap sweat instead of warmth.
Fix those things, and winter suddenly feels approachable.
The biggest difference-maker is what you wear closest to your skin. A good base layer sets the tone for everything else.
Why Merino Wool Makes Winter Easier
Merino wool base layers are one of those things people don’t realize they’re missing until they try them. Unlike cotton, merino keeps you warm even if you sweat a little. It helps regulate your temperature as you move, so you don’t feel chilled when you stop or overheated when you climb. It’s soft, breathable, and comfortable for long stretches of time.
Once you have a solid base layer, you can build from there. On colder days, you might add a fleece or insulated layer. If it’s windy or snowing, a shell can help block the elements. But none of that works well without the right foundation.
Baselayers
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We’re always happy to help people sort through this in person. A quick conversation about how you run temperature-wise and what you’re planning to do usually makes things very clear.
Warm Hands and Heads Change Everything
People often underestimate how much hats and gloves matter. Cold hands or ears can cut a walk short faster than almost anything else.
A good winter hat helps your whole body feel warmer. Gloves keep your fingers comfortable so you can adjust layers, take photos, or just enjoy the walk without thinking about the cold. These are small pieces, but they have an outsized impact on how long you’re willing to stay outside.
Winter Hats & Gloves
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We focus on pieces that are warm, simple, and easy to live with. Nothing flashy. Just things that work.
Feeling Steady on Your Feet
For a lot of people, winter hesitation comes down to one thing: slipping.
It’s not the cold that stops them. It’s the idea of losing their footing on icy steps, packed snow, or uneven trails. That’s completely reasonable—and it’s also one of the easiest problems to solve.
Traction makes winter feel different the moment you put it on.
Instead of tiptoeing or second-guessing every step, you walk normally. Your body relaxes. Your attention shifts back to the woods around you instead of the ground beneath your feet.
There isn’t just one “right” type of traction. Some styles are better for longer hikes and summit routes. Others are perfect for packed trails, icy staircases, or flatter walks. Some are lighter and lower-profile, meant for casual outings or running on snow and ice.
What matters isn’t memorizing the differences—it’s matching traction to where you’re actually going that day.
That’s why we talk through plans before pointing to products. A short hike to Kaaterskill Falls, a loop at the Mountain Top Arboretum, or a longer day heading toward a summit all call for slightly different solutions. We’ll help you choose something that feels secure without being overkill.
Once traction is handled, winter trails feel far less intimidating—and a lot more inviting.
Winter Traction
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When Snowshoes Make Sense
Snowshoes tend to sound more intimidating than they are. In reality, they’re a great option when snow is deep and soft or when trails haven’t been packed down yet. They spread your weight, keep you from sinking, and turn winter woods into a calm, quiet place to wander.
They’re especially nice for flatter walks and scenic routes where the goal is to move slowly and take it all in.
If you’re curious about snowshoes but unsure whether they’re right for the day, that’s an easy conversation to have in the shop.
Picking the Right Trail Matters More Than Distance
In winter, where you go matters more than how far you go. Conditions can vary widely depending on elevation, exposure, and recent weather. One trail may be icy and challenging, while another nearby is packed down and perfect.
This is one of the biggest reasons we encourage people to start their hike at Camp Catskill. We hear about trail conditions constantly. We’re out there ourselves. A quick check-in can save you time and uncertainty.
We can suggest routes that feel comfortable for the day, whether you’re looking for a gentle walk, a scenic overlook, or something a little more adventurous without being stressful.
Check out some trails we love.
Keep It Short, Keep It Enjoyable
Winter outings don’t need to be long to be worthwhile. Even a half-hour outside can reset your head and change the tone of your day. A rail trail walk, a short loop in the woods, or a low-elevation hike can be more than enough.
The goal isn’t distance or difficulty. It’s how you feel when you’re done. Clear-headed. Warm. Present.
Start Your Winter Adventure with Us
Camp Catskill isn’t about selling you a pile of gear. We’re here to help you make sense of what you actually need and where you’ll enjoy going that day.
If you’re visiting the Catskills—or already here—stop by our shop in Tannersville before you head out. Tell us how cold you usually feel, how long you want to be outside, and what kind of experience you’re hoping for.
We’ll help you get comfortable, get confident, and get moving.
Sometimes, all it takes to get outside is one good conversation.
