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