A Guide to Roscoe, NY

Beaverkill River just outside Roscoe, NY. Photos by Escape Brooklyn, except where noted.

Approximately 120 miles from NYC, the town of Roscoe has earned its place on the map for attracting anglers from around the globe. The town, affectionately dubbed Trout Town USA, is renowned for its plentitude of streams, lakes and reservoirs – abundant with trout – that wind their way through its sprawling forests.

Roscoe is home to many notable residents, including the Two Headed Trout – who, legend has it, long ago made its home in the Junction Pool (where the famous Beaverkill River and Willowemoc Creek meet). Unable to decide which river to live in, this fabled fish sprouted a second head to face both rivers forever.

Beyond its fishy fame, however, Roscoe reels in throngs of visitors for more than what its pristine waters promise. Check out our guides below for the best places to explore, eat and drink – plus, where to stay during your visit to this lively locale.

Scenic waterfall in the Delaware Wild Forest near Roscoe, NY.

A gateway to the stunning Catskill State Park, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy its boundless trailways including Mud Pond Loop– a stunning, 4.4 mile loop that winds itself past a rushing waterfall, a mountaintop pond, and towering birch forest before its final descent. For those seeking a shorter jaunt, Crystal Lake Loop comprises a 1.4 mile trek alongside the tranquil waters its path encircles.

Returning from nature, Roscoe’s historic downtown boasts a variety of specialty shops and restaurants. The town, which is one of many stops along the Good Taste Artisanal Beverage Trail, includes Roscoe Beer Company, a go-to spot to enjoy a tasty beverage outdoors (the amber ale is a standout pour on tap) and Do Good Distillery, open daily for tastings and tours. Pick up a bottle of their famous Beaverkill Bourbon Cream, perfect to splash into coffee or serve as-is over ice.

Visit Buck Brook Alpacas in Roscoe, NY for the warm fuzzies. Photo c/o Buck Brook Alpacas.

Main Street, Roscoe’s chief thoroughfare, offers a fun range of unique shops to explore. The WEMOC General, a cornerstone of the town’s historic strip, specializes in home goods, ceramics, global textiles and upstate-inspired apparel. It’s also home to Sway & Papi’s, serving up caffeine and carbs to the community. A few shops over, Taylor & Ace is a thoughtfully curated collection of mid century antiques, vintage clothing and other delightful finds. Beaverkill Angler is another essential stop for folks flocking to Roscoe for its angling allure; a full service fly fishing shop including equipment rentals and guide services. The Hound Books is another new addition to Roscoe: the town’s first independent bookstore, with a carefully curated collection of poetry, essays, biographies, history books and more inspired by an appreciation for the natural world.

Just outside of town, for those seeking the (literal) warm-and-fuzzies, Buck Brook Alpacas is a visit worth planning for. A family owned farm that offers tours year round, visitors can explore the grounds while offering handfuls of hay to packs of alpacas. Stop by their unique gift shop to find an extensive array of merchandise made directly from alpaca wool including socks, sweaters, blankets and more.

Bar & restaurant The Junction in Roscoe, NY. Photo: Alec Castillo.

Looking to grab a bite, The Junction, a popular restaurant and bar, offers an extensive cocktail list and rotating selection of frozen drinks daily. Their menu features elevated comfort food including an unforgettable burger stacked with thick-cut bacon (if you so desire) and a nod to what the town does best – an appetizer of smoked trout to slather atop saltines. Northern Farmhouse Pasta, which operates out of a farmhouse over 200 years old, is the perfect place to enjoy brunch or dinner. Their seasonal menu features local produce, a range of pastas made fresh from New York-grown wheat as well as larger entrees. Fans of Northern Farmhouse Pasta can also find their products in several specialty food shops and markets both within Roscoe and county-wide. Last but not least, The Yarra (also one of our lodging recommendations) serves affordable, delicious pre-fixe menus inspired by travel to Melbourne to its guests and visitors alike. Reservations are highly recommended.

Beyond the town’s borders, a short 10-minute drive brings visitors further afoot to the town of Livingston Manor where those willing to make the short trip can enjoy even more exciting venues to eat, drink and be merry. Sunshine Colony, a natural wine bar that offers rotating menus of snacks and cocktails. Patrons can pluck a paperback off the shelf or enjoy the outdoor terrace in the back garden. Other town favorites include fresh tacos and margaritas at Van Smokey (operating inside the town’s best place to source local and smoked meats). If you can score a table, Kaatskeller prepares wood-fired pies with uniquely seasonal toppings including ramps and wild boar. Visitors to Livingston Manor can also whet their whistle at one of the town’s two breweries, Catskill Brewery and Upward Brewing Company; and while you’re in Roscoe, be sure to check out Roscoe Beer Co.

There’s no shortage of vacation rentals, boutique hotels and even motels in the Roscoe, NY area. Below, we’re sharing some of our favorites.

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