A Hiking Guide Service in the Catskill Region of NY State

CONTACT

accesscatskillsllc@gmail.com

to book your private or group hike

About

Welcome to Access Catskills LLC! We're thrilled to offer you an opportunity to explore the stunning Catskill Mountains with a knowledgeable guide by your side. Our founder, Sue, is an experienced outdoor enthusiast with a passion for sharing the beauty of this region with others. Whether you're a local looking to experience the wilderness in a new way or a visitor from the City hoping to escape the hustle and bustle, we've got you covered. Our day-trip adventures are designed to be accessible to individuals and small groups. 

So, come join us for a journey you won't forget!

Types of Hikes

Out and back or loop.

To fire tower or view, pond or lake. 

Infrequently visited areas for quiet experiences. 

Tailor your hike to be easy, moderate, or challenging. 

What to Bring on a Hike

Sturdy footwear. Hat with a brim.

Dress in layers. Be prepared for all types of weather. 

Sun and bug protection. 

Water, lunch, snacks. 

Recent Hike Pictures

Susan Shortle photo

Credentials

Sue, the founder and lead guide of Access Catskills LLC, is a NYS Licensed Guide (#8996), a member of the Catskill 3500 club (#3542), and a member of NYS Outdoor Guides Association.

Sue has been exploring the great outdoors for as long as she can remember. Her love of nature has taken her on countless adventures. With over 30 years of experience in outdoor recreation and education, she's developed a deep knowledge of the Catskill Mountains and a passion for sharing her expertise with others. 

Sue is dedicated to providing safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable outdoor experiences.

Hiker's Huzzahs

"I hired Sue to take me on a hiking adventure I had been wanting to do for a long time. But, the hike is remote and there is no marked trail, so I was never willing to do it without a guide. For years I took route 42 to come upstate.  The road passes between two tall mountains which flank it on either side. You can see waterfalls coming down deep ravines along the way. It's gorgeous. There is a small area to pull over and occasionally I would see cars parked there, so I knew there was a hiking path of some sort there. One day I explored a bit. It turns out that little lot is right next to a waterfall that is hidden from the street! I hiked up a bit and was deeply intrigued, but the terrain was rough and steep, and there were no trail markings. So, I resigned myself to wistful daydreams of one day exploring that mountain. When I saw Sue's ad I decided to go for it. I was impressed with her experience and when I met her it was clear that she has a deep passion for the outdoors.

The hike was amazing. The mountain, it turns out, is Halcott Mountain. We scaled the side of it without following a trail at all. We were in the real woods! Sue was knowledgeable about the mountain, the terrain, the flora, and the fauna, and helped me navigate tricky parts of the hike. She was delightful company too! I highly recommend her services. I will definitely hire her again...perhaps for a winter hike this time. "