Neversink River Road
Forgotten logging roads through Catskills wilderness
The Neversink River Road cuts through some of the most isolated country in the Catskills, following old logging routes that haven’t seen regular traffic since the timber boom ended. This forgotten network of gravel and dirt roads winds alongside the Neversink River through Sullivan County, passing abandoned sawmill sites and crossing dozens of seasonal streams. The route connects multiple state forest parcels, with the highlight being the technical descent into Neversink Gorge where massive hemlocks create a cathedral-like canopy over boulder-strewn creek crossings.
This is solid intermediate territory requiring high-clearance 4WD and good ground clearance for rocky sections and water crossings. Spring runoff makes several creek fords impassable until late June, while fall offers the best conditions with stable water levels and spectacular foliage. No permits needed for the forest roads, but camping requires staying in designated state forest areas. Fuel up in Liberty before heading in—you’ll burn through a tank navigating the technical sections and dead-end spurs that lead to hidden fishing holes and old-growth forest remnants.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Historic, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 28 mi / 45.1 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2950 ft |
| Best season | July-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Liberty, NY |
| Land manager | NYS Department of Environmental Conservation |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
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