2019 Map of Shandaken

About this map

Esopus Creek carves a deep valley through the high peaks of the Catskills, serving as the central artery for the hamlets of Big Indian and Oliverea. This 2019 survey illustrates a landscape defined by sharp elevations and narrow hollows, where human settlement is strictly confined to the level ground along Birch Creek and the Esopus headwaters. In the south, the terrain rises toward Slide Mtn, the highest peak in the range, and Big Indian Mtn, creating a natural amphitheater of steep ridges including Fork Ridge and Giant Ledge. The map traces the modern footprint of the Big Indian Trl and Huron Trl as they navigate the watershed between Winnisook Lake and the various branches of the W Br Neversink River. These drainage patterns and narrow access roads like Big Indian-Slide Mountain Rd show how the topography has historically dictated the growth and isolation of these Ulster County communities.