About
Esopus Creek, New York — Ashokan Reservoir, NYC Water Supply. Portal releases from the Shandaken Tunnel create the Catskills' most reliable whitewater run, with the Esopus Creek dropping through Ulster County on scheduled flows that can range from 300 to 2,000 CFS. The upper eight miles from Shandaken Portal to Phoenicia offer Class II-III rapids dependent on release volumes, while the middle section to Mount Tremper mellows to Class I-II through a wider valley. Below Mount Tremper, the final 12 miles flatten to Class I water before entering Ashokan Reservoir. At 680 CFS average flow on USGS gauge 01362500, the Esopus serves both as a New York City water supply conduit and the region's primary paddling destination. Town Tinker Tube Rental operates out of Phoenicia, indicating the middle stretch's popularity for casual floating. The creek's 30-mile run through Catskill Park benefits from watershed protection regulations that keep development minimal along the corridor.
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.