Catskills Gravel Drive Named One of the Best in the Country

If you are like me and love getting off the main road and taking trips on the scenic back roads,then you’ll be happy to hear that one of New York’s own gravel routes just got national attention.

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A new survey of more than 3,000 roadtrippers named the Catskill Forest Preserve Backroads near Phoenicia the fifth best gravel drive in the entire United States. The survey, conducted by Potamkin Hyundai, asked frequent travelers to share their favorite unpaved roads across the country and the Catskills stood out as one of the top picks.

Why the Catskill Backroads Stand Out

The gravel roads near Phoenicia go through the Catskill Forest Preserve, passing between mountain ridges and running alongside trout streams. Unlike crowded parkways and tourist spots, these backroads lead to peaceful trails and overlook points you won’t find on a normal GPS route. It’s the kind of drive that reminds you why people go to upstate New York in the first place.

New York Has More Gravel Gems on the List

The Catskills weren’t the only part of New York to make the ranking. Two other well loved gravel drives were also recognized:

The Tug Hill Plateau near Lowville landed in the top 25. The gravel roads stretch over forested land giving drivers a sense of space and solitude. It’s the kind of area where you can go miles without seeing another car. That's good news...unless you break down.

Moose River Plains Road near Inlet also got a spot in the top 100. This is a classic Adirondack backroad that goes deep into the woods. With lakes, wildlife, and camping along the way, it’s a favorite for anyone who wants to disappear into nature for a while.

A Different Kind of Road Trip

The people surveyed said gravel roads are more adventurous than highways—no tolls, less traffic, and no constant noise. The crunch of gravel and slower pace make the trip feel more personal.

While top spots in the survey went to places like New Mexico, Hawaii, and Colorado, New York held its own. Having three gravel routes on the national list shows that our state isn’t just about interstates and thruways.

A Win for Upstate Explorers

Whether you already know these roads or you’ve been looking for an excuse to go to the Catskills, Tug Hill, or the Adirondacks, they have some of the best backroad drives in the country. The next time you want to get away from the hustle and bustle, it's good to know that we don’t have to go far with some of the best gravel driving in America is here in New York.