The Catskills: A Cross Country Skiing Guide, by
George V. Quinn; Purple Mountain Press, Ltd., Fleishmanns, NY, October 1997, ISBN:
0935796894.
A very delightful, well researched and written introduction to Cross Country skiing in
the Catskills and Shawangunks. The book briefly covers some of the commercial areas but
deals extensively with back country routes.
All back country routes described are marked hiking trails. Descriptions are excellent
along with directions to the trail heads and what to expect when you get there. One update
from the text is the Mink Hollow trail which has been relocated north of the Devil's Path
to a trailhead on the Roaring Kill Road (see the January Trail Walker for a description
and map).
The book includes a brief history of skiing in the Catskills, an introduction to
Catskill weather, tips for winter travel, and an equipment guide. Individual trails are
rated from beginner to expert with caution advised where appropriate. The book by no means
covers all skiable terrain in the Catskills but is a great introduction for those new to
the area or getting into back country skiing. All regions of the Catskills are represented
so no matter where your favorite area is, there is bound to be a trail or two described.
Enjoy the snow, try Nordic skiing.
Reviewed by Pete Senterman, January 1998
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