From adrenaline-pumping tubing on the Esopus Creek to a quiet day of fishing in a tucked away spot, there is really water everywhere along the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway. In all four Byway towns you may find a place to enjoy the water.
By hovering over any of the markers on the map below you will learn about many of the water-based locations that help define the character of the byway. You should also know that there are many other resources that provide detailed and complementary information about points of access for varying kinds of water related activities. We offer two:
Ulster County Rec Connect is a web-based interactive map that comprehensively details the recreation sites throughout Ulster County, including smaller fishing access points.
The Enhanced Recreational Access for the Upper East Branch Delaware River Watershed is both an inventory of and a plan for water-based recreational access points for the western (Delaware County) portion of the byway. This map image identifies many smaller, existing access points; whereas the project homepage is the central base for detailed information about the project.
As with all types of outdoor pursuits, those undertaking activities related to water based recreation should understand and possess the necessary skills for a given activity, have the right equipment, and be fully aware of the rules that apply. Such rules may include permits to engage in the activity or permission to use the property.
Many choice fishing locations are on New York City-owned lands, and an Access Permit (along with a NYS fishing license) is required to get to them. Permits are free and can be obtained easily here , or at many town halls, sports shops and NYC DEP offices, as well as at the Catskill Watershed Corp. in Margaretville. Access permits are also needed to paddle the Pepacton Reservoir, which is just off the Byway in the Town of Andes.
The NYC DEP has also produced an interactive digital map which provides information on City-owned properties that are open for recreation. Visit the website to use the map, which also shows New York State lands and other accessible areas.
For more information on the waterways that criss-cross the Byway Region, visit www.catskillstreams.org.
Below is a list of a few businesses on the Byway that may help you in planning your adventure on our waters
Town Tinker Tube Rental
10 Bridge Street
P.O. Box 404
Phoenicia, New York 12464
Map It
For over 35 years, the Town Tinker Tube Rental has provided whitewater equipment for adrenaline seekers to come and experience the intensity of the rapids on the Esopus Creek.
The course begins upstream from the Town Tinker headquarters in Phoenicia, NY, and contains the best and most extreme whitewater the Esopus has to offer. Depending on the water height, an average tubing trip takes between 1 ½ to 2 hours. Transportation to the entry points is provided by the Town Tinker Tube Taxi.
The Esopus Creek is NOT a lazy river! It’s a class II whitewater, which means 1 to 3 foot waves and rapids. It is not a man-made amusement park ride; there are real rocks and trees that can get in your way. Tubers must be physically capable of maneuvering around obstacles, and have the ability to recover when tossed out of the tube.
The Town Tinker staff is expertly trained to supply you with all of the equipment and gear needed. All tubers will receive safety instructions on how to properly use the equipment and what to look for on the creek. There are no guides or attendants on the Esopus, so tubing is at your own risk.
All Tubers must be over 12 years’ old and good swimmers. Life jackets are mandatory and helmets are strongly suggested. Helmets are required for ages 12-14.
Tubing with the Town Tinker Tube Rental is fun, exciting, and a Summer Adventure you’re sure to remember.
Open daily Memorial Day weekend through September 30th (weekends by reservation only after Labor Day), 9 am – 6 pm – last rentals at 4 pm. Group rates and reservations available. Call (845) 688-5553 for more information, visit our website at www.towntinker.com or check out our Facebook page.
This summer, experience tubing the Esopus with Town Tinker Tube Rental!