Tour of the Catskills 2024

Updated April 2, 2024

This year’s edition of the Tour of the Catskills marks its 16th annual running. A compelling regional event for anyone living in the greater Tri-state area, it has been selected by Strambecco as one of the best cycling events in New England.  As the event name implies, the ride represents a beautiful and challenging tour through the Catskills mountain range of Southeastern New York with three route options. The Tour of the Catskills is produced by Anthem Sports which was the original founder of the Tour of the Battenkill. The event is characterized as a Pro-Am as it brings together riders of varying abilities, from dedicated amateurs to seasoned professionals, for a shared journey through the heart of scenic Upstate New York.

Event & Course Info

As riders embark on their chosen distance – 27, 52, or 74 miles – they are met with a seamless blend of professionalism and camaraderie at Tour of the Catskills. From professional mechanical and SAG support to motorcycle assistance and police support at select intersections, every detail is meticulously arranged to ensure a smooth and safe ride. Things kick off at 9 am with the 74-mile riders and wrap up in the afternoon for the post-tour after-party at Last Chance Antiques and Cafe.

The 74-mile course may not look imposing at first glance, but it promises an exhilarating challenge with 5,593 feet of climbing. The crown jewel of this course is the infamous Devil’s Kitchen Climb, a brutal ascent near the end of the route that boasts an elevation gain of 1,350 feet in just under 3 miles, an average gradient of 10.9%, and a maximum gradient of 22%. Climbing-centric gearing is strongly recommended.  It’s not unusual to see very fit people walking or jogging sections of the grade.  Since the event runs in August, you can expect hot and humid conditions to add more challenges. With a total of four aid stations strategically placed along the route and a water zone at the top of the Devil’s Kitchen Climb, riders can refuel and recharge before conquering the next feat.

The 52-mile course features 3,750 feet of climbing, and while it may be a shorter distance, it doesn’t lack excitement. Cyclists will encounter a maximum gradient of 18%, testing their mettle as they ascend and descend the Catskill landscapes. With two aid stations and rest stops along the way, riders can catch their breath and revel in the spectacular views.

The 27-mile course is a perfect option for those seeking a rewarding but less daunting challenge. With 2,218 feet of climbing and a maximum gradient of 12%, this course offers a taste of the Catskills’ beauty without overwhelming novices or recreational cyclists. A single aid station and rest stop ensure that cyclists remain fueled and hydrated throughout their journey.

This one-day gran fondo promises an exhilarating weekend of cycling that combines the thrill of a challenging course with the unparalleled beauty of the Catskill Mountains.

Area Accommodations & Things to Do

Tour of the Catskills has a wonderful local vibe, and Tannersville offers all kinds of great watering holes and restaurants to recharge after the ride from Nat’s Mountain House, Maggie’s Krooked Cafe & Juice Bar, and Jessie’s Harvest House. Downtown Tannersville presents a charming culinary landscape that captures the essence of the Catskills. This cozy hamlet offers a delightful array of dining options, where local ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere take center stage.

The region represents a great opportunity to make it an extended weekend vacation with charming boutique hotels like Hotel Mountain Brook, the Hunter Lodge, and Hotel Lilien. If you prefer to have a more home-like experience while in town for a Tour of the Catskills, there are vacation rentals galore, including this downtown apartment, cozy chalet, or cabin in the woods. For those who appreciate the simplicity of sleeping under the stars, there are some great, unique camping options in the area as well, like this former potato farm or Haines Falls campground just outside of town.

The area also offers a plethora of outdoor activities that would delight any outdoor athlete during the summer months. For those who love to explore on foot, Tannersville offers access to an extensive network of hiking/running trails within the Catskill Park. One must-visit destination is Kaaterskill Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in New York State. The Kaaterskill Falls Trail provides a challenging hike with rewarding views. Those who are more into trail running can take advantage of the Escarpment Trail, offering rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas along the way. The Catskill trails cater to varying skill levels, making it an ideal destination for both casual hikers and experienced trail runners seeking a heart-pounding adventure.

The mountain bikers of the group will find themselves in their element at Windham Mountain Bike Park. Located just a short drive from downtown, this park boasts a range of trails designed to challenge riders, from flowy singletracks to technical lift-access descents, the park offers an adrenaline-fueled experience.

Finally, Devil’s Kitchen in the Catskills is a rock climbing and bouldering hotspot. This unique destination, known for its sandstone boulders, presents climbers with an array of challenging routes to conquer. 

Related Events

For the multi-discipline cyclists out there, Anthem Sports also organizes the Great North Battenkill Valley one of the Best Gravel Cycling Events in New England. Another premiere event in the area is the Wilmington Whiteface MTB which takes place 3 hours north of Tannersville in June and is produced by Life Time Events and is part of the Leadville Race Series MTB – we consider it to be one of the Best Mountain Bike Events in New England.