By JENNIFER GRIMES

Straddling Sullivan and Ulster Counties, Claryville is a bit of a unicorn with its rare combination of stunning natural scenery and minimal development. The main road meanders through the valley, with the Neversink River appearing and disappearing as you go, while the road narrows periodically before terminating at a trailhead for New York State hiking trails up Slide Mountain (the highest peak in the Catskills). For those seeking a peaceful setting with an emphasis on outdoor activities, who don’t mind having to leave town for more practical amenities, Claryville is a piece of heaven.

In fact it is the trails, including the hike to the Red Hill Fire Tower (there are two routes to the tower now), as well as the scenic drives that attract visitors on four and two wheels, that draw visitors to otherwise off-the-beaten-path Claryville. A significant exception is Frost Valley YMCA, the largest Y in the country, which has three separate, sought-after camps in the town (main camp, equestrian camp and farm camp). The Y owns around 7,000 acres, and attracts thousands of visitors to these campuses over the course of a year.

Fun facts: The Neversink River starts its long journey in Claryville, and is frequently visible as you drive the picturesque roads. It is home to feisty native brook trout, and there is one public fishing access point (which locals also enjoy as a refreshing swimming hole), with the remainder of the river in private hands. Between NYS (for the Catskill Park) and NYC (for city drinking water), around 70% of the town is preserved. It's a total outlier, and means the incredible scenery is unspoiled. ⁠(It also means the supermarket is ~20 minutes away, Livingston Manor 25 mins.)

FROM TOP LEFT: The view from the top of the Red Hill Fire Tower, and the tower itself. There are now two trails that head up to the top; Looking across Round Pond; The Neversink River. TOP: The Neversink River along the Claryville Rd.

Commercially speaking, let’s just say you won’t be overwhelmed with options. There is a cluster of buildings that includes several operations, the most consistently open being the Russian Mule Brewery, a bar and restaurant open on weekends. The Claryville Art Center, opens sporadically in summer; and the Claryville Event Center, is a banquet hall. There is a post office, and a liquor store that requires finding an employee from the Russian Mule to unlock so you can make your purchase. There are also several motel rooms for rent via the Blue Hill Lodge.

Claryville Pottery is a bright spot, and well worth stopping into the studio if the Open flag is out. Annemarie Kremer’s sophisticated designs and alluring glazes have attracted a loyal clientele. She and several other area artisans banded together and launched The Neversink River Craft Co-op during the summer of 2022, offering an array of locally-produced pottery, wood turning, cutting boards, jewelry, resin, paintings and more, all handcrafted by local Claryville artists.

Snap up fresh eggs, chicken and even duck at Galli Family Farm (and there are adorable sheep there too!).

The studio at Claryville Pottery offers an appealing selection with sophisticated glazes. It is also part of The Neversink River Craft Co-Op, which has a summertime pop-up along the Frost Valley Rd; The Russian Mule Brewery is a weekend watering hole and restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating.