Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Catskills Scenic Byway

Shandaken, US
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (6 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Support: toll free phone, chat and email
  • inclusion
    Easy to use: pre-download and tour offline
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    Location based: stories, tips & directions that autoplay
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    Buy once, use forever! no expiry, includes free updates
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    Trip planners: in-app and web
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    Guidealong (gypsy guide) audio tour: 72 points
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    Flexible routes: suggested itineraries or create your own

Excluded

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    Admission to the belleayre mountain gondola: $20 adults, $10 children (2024)
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    Admission to the emerson kaleidoscope: $5 for ages 12 and above (2024)

Meeting Point

Start at one of the official tour introduction points (Andes or West Hurley) or join anywhere along the route and pick up the commentary at the next audio point. Open the GuideAlong app to preview the tour route and browse the suggested itineraries and trip planner.

Meeting point

Andes, NY 13731 , United States

End point

End Point

Commentary plays automatically based on your location, so you have flexibility on where and when you want to start and end your tour anywhere along the tour route.

Meeting point

Hurley, NY , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Catskill Mountains

As the audio guides play commentary based on your gps location, you can create your own itinerary along the tour route to match your interests and schedule.

Duration 480 minutes
2

Ashokan Rail Trail

Running along the northern shore of the Ashokan Reservoir, the Ashokan Rail Trail offers picturesque views of the reservoir and the Catskill Mountains from multiple vantage points. This crushed gravel trail is accessible to most bikes, and is also great for walking and trail running.

Duration 60 minutes
3

Ashokan Reservoir

Located on the eastern end of the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway, the Ashokan Reservoir is a vital source of drinking water for New York City. Visitors are drawn to this large reservoir for its beautiful panorama and recreational opportunities - making it an ideal spot for hiking, biking, birdwatching and simply enjoying the surrounding mountains.

Duration 60 minutes
4

Belleayre Mountain Ski Center

This scenic gondola ride offers fantastic panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains in every season, from the lush greenery of summer to the vibrant fall foliage. The Belleayre Mountain Gondola is a must-visit attraction and allows visitors to appreciate the beauty of the Catskills from a remarkable and easily accessed vantage point.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
5

Emerson Kaleidoscope

This colossal kaleidoscope housed inside an old grain silo provides a unique blend of art and entertainment, and allows visitors to immerse themselves in an unique sensory journey. The world's largest kaleidoscope is a must-see attraction for those who enjoy odd and unusual sights.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
6

Margaretville

The neighboring towns of Margaretville and Arkville are known for their welcoming communities, vibrant arts scene, lively local shops, and excellent dining options. It's well worth dedicating at least an hour or two to park and explore these towns on foot. Also of potential special interest is the Water Discovery Center - sounds boring but it's actually very interesting - and the heritage Delaware & Ulster Railroad.

Duration 120 minutes
7

Catskills Visitor Center

Located at the Catskills Visitor Center in Mount Tremper, the Upper Esopus Fire Tower is just a short hike from the parking area and offers visitors fantastic panoramas of the surrounding mountains. It’s a great chance to learn about the role fire towers played in early forest fire detection.

Duration 60 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    How to Access: After booking you’ll receive an email and text with instructions (search “Download Audio Tour”). Click the link in the email/text to sign in with your preferred Apple or Google account and redeem your voucher code ahead of time.
  • Additional information
    Download The GuideAlong App: Download the free app over WiFi or cellular data and sign in with the same Apple or Google account.
  • Additional information
    Download The Tour: Download the tour in the GuideAlong app under 'My Tours' over WiFi or cellular data.
  • Additional information
    Start The Tour: Open the tour in the GuideAlong app to preview the start locations, tour route and trip planner, or start the tour.
  • Additional information
    Location-Based Stories: Audio commentary plays automatically as you drive using your phone’s GPS chip. Wherever you are and whichever direction you’re going, you’ll hear the best stories and tips.
  • Additional information
    Flexible Travel Date: Tours are a one-time purchase with no expiry or date/time limit. If your plans change to a different day, there’s no need to change your travel date.
  • Additional information
    Tour at Your Leisure: With GuideAlong, you control the pace. Start, stop, and resume the tour any day, anytime, adapting it to your schedule.
  • Additional information
    Driving Tours: Group Savings: One purchase covers everyone in the vehicle, making it a cost-effective way to explore.
  • Additional information
    Works Offline: No internet or cell service is required once the audio tour is downloaded to your phone, so you can relax and tour offline.
  • Additional information
    Bring A Charger: Pack a USB/C car charger for charging and easy sound connectivity, and make sure your device is fully charged.
  • Additional information
    Technical Support: The GuideAlong support team is available daily by toll-free phone, online chat, and email.
Provided by GuideAlong (GyPSy Guide)

What our experts say

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    Check out the Ashokan Rail Trail for views.
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    Visit Margaretville for local dining options.
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    Don't miss the Belleayre Mountain Gondola.
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    Bring snacks and water for your journey.
  • icon
    Explore the towns for unique art galleries.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience the beauty of the Catskill Mountains like never before with the Catskills Scenic Byway: Audio Driving Tour. This self-guided audio tour takes you on a captivating journey through the picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and hidden gems of the Catskills. With the help of the GuideAlong app, you'll have fascinating stories, local tips, and directions automatically played based on your location, ensuring you don't miss a single highlight along the way.

What to expect?

Prepare to be immersed in the rich history and natural wonders of the Catskill Mountains. As you embark on this audio driving tour, you can expect a duration of 480 to 1440 minutes, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or simply seeking a scenic adventure, this tour has something for everyone. From panoramic views of the Ashokan Reservoir to the world's largest kaleidoscope and a scenic gondola ride offering breathtaking vistas, each step of the tour will leave you awe-inspired.

Who is this for?

The Catskills Scenic Byway: Audio Driving Tour is designed for all adventurers seeking an unforgettable road trip experience. Whether you're traveling solo, with a group of friends, or with your loved ones, this tour is perfect for anyone who craves exploration, natural beauty, and unique attractions. From outdoor enthusiasts looking to hike, bike, and birdwatch to art enthusiasts seeking unusual sights, this tour welcomes all curious souls to discover the hidden treasures of the Catskill Mountains.

Why book this?

Book this tour and unleash your inner explorer as you uncover the best of the Catskill Mountains. With the GuideAlong app, you'll have a virtual tour guide providing captivating stories, tips, and directions based on your location. This offline tour allows you to break free from the constraints of cell service or WiFi, giving you the ultimate flexibility to venture off the beaten path. Whether you choose a half, full, or multi-day itinerary, this tour guarantees an unforgettable experience tailored to your interests and schedule.

Good to know

With no time limits or expiry, you can embark on the Catskills Scenic Byway: Audio Driving Tour whenever it suits you best. The tour provides suggested itineraries, but feel free to create your own as you journey through this breathtaking region. Make sure to start at one of the official tour introduction points or join anywhere along the route to pick up the commentary at the next audio point. So, grab your vehicle, download the GuideAlong app, and get ready to witness the beauty of the Catskill Mountains like never before.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced the Catskills Scenic Byway: Audio Driving Tour have been captivated by the beauty and immersive storytelling. They appreciate the flexibility to explore at their own pace and the ease of navigating with the GPS-based audio guides. From the stunning views of the Ashokan Reservoir to the unexpected delight of the world's largest kaleidoscope, this tour has left visitors in awe. The experience of driving along the scenic byway, accompanied by intriguing stories and local tips, has made this audio tour a must for anyone seeking a unique and enriching journey through the Catskills.

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