Get Easy Directions to Roscoe NY: Your Route Guide

Getting to Roscoe, New York, a picturesque hamlet nestled in the heart of Sullivan County, is a straightforward journey regardless of your starting point. This destination serves as a vital gateway to the Catskills, offering access to state parks, charming bed-and-breakfasts, and world-renowned trout fishing. To ensure your trip is as smooth as the Beaver Kill itself, we have compiled detailed driving instructions from the major surrounding regions.

Navigating to Roscoe from the South

For travelers approaching from the bustling Mid-Hudson Valley or further south, the route is well-maintained and efficient. You will primarily utilize the major interstate highways before transitioning to the scenic state roads that define the region. Expect a drive of roughly 70 to 90 minutes from the Kingston area, depending on traffic.

Follow this step-by-step guidance to arrive with minimal stress:

From the New York City Area or Northern New Jersey

• Access the New York State Thruway (I-87) heading north.
• Continue on I-87 until you reach the exit for I-88 (NY Route 7) westbound toward Binghamton.
• Merge onto I-88 and travel for approximately 30 miles.
• Take exit 7 for NY Route 28 westbound.
• Follow Route 28 west for about 20 miles; you will pass through the village of Liberty.
• Continue on Route 28 until you reach the hamlet of Roscoe, where the highway intersects with NY Route 17.

Approaching from the West and Pennsylvania

Travelers driving from the western parts of New York State or northern Pennsylvania will find the journey equally direct. This route treats you to sprawling farmland and dense woodlands before the mountains come into view.

Use the directions below if you are coming from the Binghamton or Elmira areas:

From Binghamton or the West

• Head east on NY Route 28.
• Pass through the towns of Hancock and Downsville.
• Continue on Route 28 for roughly 45 miles.
• Look for the junction with NY Route 17 (Future I-86); turn left (north) onto Route 17.
• Drive north on Route 17 for approximately 5 miles.
• Roscoe is located on your right, identifiable by the intersection with County Road 121 (Rock Island Road).

The Northern Route from the Catskills

If you are already exploring the Catskill Park region, reaching Roscoe is a matter of heading south. The drive offers stunning vistas of the forested peaks that the area is famous for.

Those approaching from Woodstock or the Slide Mountain area should follow this path:

From Woodstock or the Upper Catskills

• Take NY Route 28 westbound from Woodstock.
• Continue through the hamlets of Big Indian and Shokan.
• Drive for approximately 20 miles.
• Keep an eye out for the sharp curve known as "The Squeeze" near Oliverea.
• After the squeeze, proceed straight onto NY Route 28A (Ulster Avenue).
• Follow Route 28A until you connect with NY Route 17 west.
• Merge onto Route 17 east, and Roscoe will be just a few miles ahead on your right.

Essential Travel Information and Tips

While the roads are generally reliable, preparation is key to a pleasant trip in this rural part of New York. Weather can change rapidly in the mountains, and cellular service can be spotty in certain valleys.

Consider the following tips for a safe journey:

• GPS Reliability: Do not solely rely on satellite navigation. Download offline maps of the area in case of signal loss.
• Fuel Stops: Fill up your tank before entering the more remote stretches of highway, as gas stations can be sparse between Roscoe and the next major town.
• Wildlife: Be vigilant for deer, particularly at dawn and dusk, as they frequently cross the roads in this region.
• Seasonal Changes: In winter, chains or 4WD may be necessary. In fall, the scenic drive is filled with foliage, but leaves can obscure road markings.

Understanding the Geography

Roscoe sits at the convergence of two important waterways: the Beaver Kill and the Willowemoc Creek. This location, often referred to as the "Trout Capital of the World," sits at the base of the Catskill Mountains. The main road, Route 17 (soon to be I-86), acts as the lifeblood of the hamlet, making it a central hub for visitors and locals alike.

Because of its position, the hamlet is a natural meeting spot. As you drive down Route 28 from the Shawangunk Mountains or Route 17 from the New York State Thruway, you are following the historical trade routes that established this community long before the advent of modern highways.

Nearby Points of Interest

When you arrive in Roscoe, you will find that the journey itself is merely the prelude to the experiences that await. The hamlet is the perfect basecamp for a variety of activities.

While navigating the area, look for these landmarks: