What is a good motorcycle ride from Kingston, NY into the Catskills?
Ride NY Route 28 west from Kingston toward West Hurley and Phoenicia. Route 28 is the main artery from the Hudson Valley into the Catskills, passing the Ashokan Reservoir area and entering Catskill Park. Local dealers describe it as cruiser-friendly, with wide lanes. Leave time for stops and check conditions first.
Kingston was founded by Dutch settlers in 1652 and became the first capital of New York in 1777. The Stockade District and the Rondout waterfront give the city layers. The ride west is the reason to bring a full tank.
The rides
Route 28 west
NY 28 is the main road from Kingston into the Catskill interior. It runs west toward West Hurley and Phoenicia, passing near the eastern end of the Ashokan Reservoir. Local dealer route guides describe it as cruiser-friendly, with wide lanes, which suits both group rides and solo days.
Rondout waterfront
The Rondout waterfront district sits on Rondout Creek and is home to the Hudson River Maritime Museum, established in 1980. It is a good stop before or after a ride, with plenty of room to walk.
The Stockade District
Dutch settlers built a stockade around the village in 1658, and in 1777 Kingston became the first capital of New York. The old street layout survives in the Stockade District.
Season notes
Fall draws leaf-peepers into the Catskills on Route 28, so weekends can be slow. Summer weekends see heavy traffic too. Early starts and midweek rides are your friends.
Watch for
Slow-moving tourist traffic, turning vehicles near attractions, and weather that changes as you climb. Pack a layer, since mountain air can run cooler than the valley.
Questions riders ask about Kingston
Why is Kingston called the first capital of New York?
In 1777, Kingston became the first capital of New York State, and the state senate met in a house in the city. The first permanent European settlement dates to 1652.
What is the main road from Kingston into the Catskills?
NY Route 28. It runs west from Kingston through West Hurley toward Phoenicia and into the Catskill Park, and it passes near the Ashokan Reservoir.
Roads, closures and seasonal hours change, so check current conditions before you ride. FJP is an online shop with no storefront or events in Kingston. This guide is a free resource for riders.