Written Directions
Heading north on State Route 209 in Kerhonkson (intersection of 44/55) 1.5 miles make left on Ulster Co. Route 3 (Samsonville Rd) through the forest to Olivebridge and Shokan NY via Rt. 28A and across the reservoir via Reservoir Rd.
Scenery
This is a twisty less traveled route to the Catskills from the heart of the Shawangunk Mountain range, down the round from Minnewaska State park to the heart of the Catskills in Shokan. Beautiful farm like scenes, fields of flowers, horses in front yards, long straight forest runs as well as dozens of serpentines, Rock outcroppings, and views of the nearby Mountains of the Catskills through the trees....and eventually you'll arrive at breath taking views of the Reservoir and the mountains in the background.
Drive Enjoyment
Rt 3 (Samsonville Rd) is currently in flawless, newly paved condition for most of it. 28A before the reservoir is a bit choppy, normal for some catskill roads. but no pot holes to mention. Reservoir Rd. (across the Ashokan Reservoir) is in top new quality as of Sept 2018.
Tourism Opportunities
Route 209 has a fuel station about every 5 miles. Including the wonderful "Stewarts Shops" gas stations where you can get Ethanol FREE 91 Octane. "Kerhonkson Diner" on 209 is the best place to start, inexpensive, good quality diner.
Motorcycle Road Additional info
Beware a few almost hairpin turns as you get closer to route 28A. Not a route for "newish" riders in sections.