- Open for recreation: Year-round
- Fee: Free
- Contact information:
- DEC Region 3 New Paltz Office (M-F, 8:30 AM - 4:45 PM), (845) 256-3076; [email protected]
- Enforcement Matters: 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264) or 911
- Location: Towns of Denning, Shadaken and Hardenburgh, Ulster County
- Wildlife Management Unit: 3A
- Maps: Big Indian Wilderness Map (GeoPDF) - GeoPDF Instructions || Google Earth || DECinfo Locator
The 33,500-acre Big Indian Wilderness Area contains the longest stretch of trail through uninterrupted virgin forest in the Catskills. The 30 miles of trail traverse a rugged, mountainous landscape offering numerous opportunities for solitude. The wilderness is host to eight prominent peaks including Balsam, Fir, Haynes and Eagle, as well as several unnamed mountaintops. Elevations range from 1,500-3,860 feet.