catskill mountain places to visit

Top Attractions in the Catskills

Just a scenic two-hour drive north of New York City, the Great Northern Catskills of Greene County offer some of the best attractions in the Catskills. Visit the mountain region to hike the Catskill Park . Walk through renowned landscape artist Thomas Cole 's house and original studio spaces. Enjoy breathtaking views on a family-friendly skyride to the summits of  Hunter or Windham  mountains. Bring the whole family to Zoom Flume , the Catskills' #1 water park. Or paddleboard out to the historic Hudson-Athens Lighthouse .

Plot your course for adventure and map out your trip through the Great Northern Catskills of Greene County!

Check out our top attractions:

• Hunter Mountain Skyride
• Windham Mountain Skyride
• Hudson-Athens Lighthouse

Kaaterskill Falls

Catskill park.

• North-South Lake
• Zoom Flume Water Park

Thomas Cole National Historic Site

• Windham Mountain Club

Hunter Mountain Resort

• Hudson River Skywalk

Kaaterskill Falls Viewing Platform

Bronck museum.

• Bailiwick Animal Park & Riding Stables

Bearpen Mountain Sports

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Find out where you are, what's nearby, and what fun stuff there is to do next. There are adventures all over Greene County!

Trip Ideas for all Seasons!

Experience the warm sun and the cool mountain air this Summer.

Crisp air, craft beers, seasonal festivals, and fall foliage make the Catskills the best Autumn destination.

From extreme winter sports to cozy cabins with fireplaces, the Catskills offer an ultimate winter vacation.

Spring brings renewed life and a sense of fresh beginnings to the Catskills.

Learn More About Our Top Attractions

North-South Lake State Campground

North-South Lake is the biggest and most popular state campground in the Catskill Forest Preserve, offering extraordinary scenic beauty, and historical sites.

• Haines Falls, NY

Hunter Mountain Scenic Skyride

Open Friday, Saturday & Sunday starting July 1, 2023

An easy .6 round trip hike to the Viewing Platform overlooking Kaaterskill Falls and the Kaaterskill Clove.

The Thomas Cole National Historic Site is the former home of Hudson River School of Art founder, Thomas Cole. Located in the village of Catskill, the house, called Cedar Grove, and Cole's studio are open for tours, events, and workshops throughout the year.

• Catskill, NY

A National Historic Landmark and the Hudson Valley's oldest home.

• Coxsackie, NY

Outdoor adventure for all ages!

• Prattsville, NY

Windham Mountain Bike Park

Closed: Windham Mountain Bike Park | Open: over 120 miles of trails to discover

• Windham, NY

The Catskill Park is a New York State designated wilderness recreation area spanning 700,000 acres across four counties in the Catskill Mountains. 

Known as the snow making capital of the world!

Small Town Charm

The distinct charm of the Catskills has been bringing visitors to the region for generations. 

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The Best Things to Do in the Catskills

Hameedah Abdullateef

Hameedah is a freelance travel and tech writer. She enjoys writing about dreamy destinations just as much as she loves soaking up the fun outdoors.

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For an action-packed New York getaway, the Catskill Mountains region is the perfect destination for epic adventures. Spend a day hiking the trails at Catskill Park, enjoy panoramic views on a family-friendly Skyride to the summit of Hunter Mountain, or go shopping for antiques—you’ll never run out of things to do in the Catskills. 

Here are our favorite things to do in the Catskills.

Go Hiking in the Catskills Forest Preserve

The Catskill Forest Preserve (also known as Catskills Park) consists of 286,000 acres of protected state land, with waterfalls, meadows, marshes, and cool camping spots. Miles of scenic hiking trails snake across the Catskills, offering adventure for new and experienced hikers alike. Brave formidable mountain summits, take a family-friendly walk and discover remote waterfalls.

Experienced hikers and enthusiasts can brave the 7-mile climb to the highest fire tower in New York—Hunter Mountain fire tower. On a clear day, hiking to the top will reward you with stunning views as far as Vermont. You can also go easy with a flatter hike through dense forests. You might even be lucky enough to see a black bear or other wildlife as you trek beside gorgeous streams.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Hunter Lodge, a Bluebird by Lark , offers quick access to hiking trails around Elka Park and stunning views of Hunter Mountain.

Take a Thrill-seeking Adventure to Hunter Mountain

Hunter Mountain is the second-highest point of the Great Northern Catskill Mountains, and it offers some of the most thrilling adventures in the area. Here, North America’s longest and highest zipline lets visitors zip over a canopy of trees all year long. You can also take a breathtaking Skyride chair lift to the mountain summit in the summer. 

In the winter, over 50 trails offer plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, or snow tubing. If you time your trip right, you can partake in fun festivals in the area, like the Taste of Country Music Festival and the TAP New York Craft Beer and Food Festival.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Kaatskill Mountain Club at Hunter Mountain has an outdoor pool, sauna, and condos featuring kitchenettes and fireplaces. This hotel regularly offers room deals making it an affordable choice.

Visit Gnome Chomsky

Driving along Route 209 in Kerhonkson, you’ll find a unique roadside attraction, Gnome Chomsky—the world’s third largest garden gnome. Towering over the roadside at 13.5 feet, Gnome Chomsky is located at Kelder’s Farm and was the world’s largest gnome at one point in time.  

If you’re traveling with kids, a photo with the friendly, bearded giant will surely put smiles on their faces. The surrounding farm is also kid-friendly, with a playground, a 10-hole mini-golf course, a petting zoo, and seasonal pick-your-own-produce. 

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Minnewaska Lodge is nestled in a state park preserve at the base of the Shawangunk Mountains. Only 5 miles away from Kelder’s Farm, this boutique lodge offers stunning mountain views and quick access to hiking trails.

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Sample Local Flavors at a Microbrewery

There are two attractions the Catskills never run out of, nature and craft beer. Whether you’re a connoisseur or want to try new unique flavors, there’s always a pint ready to be poured. 

Take a few hours to check out the Catskill Brewery at Livingston Manor, where you can enjoy tasty beer, food, and live music. Or, devote a day or two to following the Catskills Beverage Trail, a collection of places to sample fresh brews and artisanal wine and spirits.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Hotel Vienna is centrally located to The Vineyard at Windham and other breweries along the Catskills Beverage Trail. Clean, modern bedrooms, private balconies, and proximity to skiing at Windham Mountain make this hotel an excellent place to unwind.

Browse Stunning Art at the Thomas Cole National Historic Site

The Thomas Cole National Historic Site is the former home of Thomas Cole, the father of American landscape painting. Cole settled in Catskills and was inspired by the region’s natural beauty and rich landscape. Created in the 1800s, they served as protest art to condemn deforestation and encourage environmental preservation. 

Now you can immerse yourself in Cole’s art on display at the site’s museum, along with the works of other notable Hudson River School masters. You can also hike nearby trails to explore landmarks that inspired some of Cole’s most famous works.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: A 10-minute drive from Thomas Cole National Historic Site, the Hudson Whaler lies across the Hudson River. This boutique hotel has a fitness center and is well-situated so that you can explore the surrounding Hudson Valley on your getaway.

Kaaterskill Falls

If the thought of a cascading waterfall excites you, you’ll love Kaaterskill Falls. Kaaterskill Falls drops over 260 feet and is easily the most beautiful waterfall in the Catskills. For decades, this mesmerizing Catskills attraction has inspired painters, photographers, and other tourists.

You can take in the beauty of the falls from multiple angles. Walk to a viewing platform above the falls for a summary but picturesque view, or hike to the base to see the iconic waterfall in all its glory. The best time to visit Kaaterskill Falls is in the fall when the foliage turns a gorgeous auburn color and the hiking conditions are better. Be careful, though, as the trail gets muddy and slippery. Make sure to pack your best hiking boots!

Nearby Recommended Hotel: SunView Motel is a no-frills property 4 miles from Kaaterskill Falls and a short ride to the Hunter Mountain ski area. Large rooms with double beds make it perfect for a family trip.

Discover Great Craftsmanship at Opus 40

The result of a determined sculptor’s hard work, Opus 40 is a large sculpture on a 6.5-acre bluestone quarry. Constructed entirely by Harvey Fite, this rock configuration also features stone ramps, pools, platforms, and stairs. The surrounding 63-acre park offers meadows, trails, quarries, and picnic tables, so you can hike here with a packed lunch to eat out in nature.

Plan to attend one of the music concerts regularly held at this site or visit the onsite gallery to discover artwork by local artists.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Enjoy a unique stay in one of AutoCamp Catskills airstreams. The accommodation offers private fire pits and free onsite parking for guests.

Visit the Site of the Woodstock Music Festival at Bethel Woods

One of the best things to do in the Catskills is visit the 1969 Woodstock Music Festival site . This famous festival that transformed American culture allowed young people to spread a message of unity and peace in a time of uncertainty and conflict. 

Fun fact: Woodstock Festival wasn’t held in Woodstock but 40 miles away at Bethel. The grounds house The Bethel Woods Center for the Arts theater and museum today. Visit the museum to learn about the volatile history of the 1960s and the festival that brought together a generation. Remember to pick up souvenirs: you can buy tie-dye gifts, posters, and peace and love themed items.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Best Western Monticello offers complimentary breakfast, spacious rooms, and an indoor pool. It’s a great choice if you plan to spend some days exploring Bethel and Woodstock.

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Take a Psychedelic Trip at the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope

You might want to lay back when you visit the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope at Emerson Resort. Fifty-six feet tall and housed in a converted grain silo, the Kaatskill Kaleidoscope is the trippiest attraction in the Catskills.

Kaleidoshows here are suitable for all ages and typically last about 15 minutes. Apart from the shows, you can learn about the history of kaleidoscopes and the artists that create them. Visit the stores nearby to buy original scopes signed by their artists.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: The Kaatskill Kaleidoscope is located on the grounds of Emerson Resort & Spa at Mt. Tremper. Resort guests can watch shows at the attraction for free. The hotel offers modern and cabin-style rooms, so you can choose what matches your taste. 

Discover the Overlook Mountain House Ruins

If you’re hiking one of the several trails running through Overlook Mountain, stop at the ruins of the Overlook Mountain House. Close to the mountain’s summit, Lewis Wagonen built this concrete masterpiece in 1871 and it was originally one of the first luxury hotels in New York state. Since then, it’s burnt down three times and was never fully reconstructed. 

Probably more popular now than it was in its heyday, the ruins are one of the most visited unique Catskills attractions. Hikers often rest here for a bit before summiting the mountain. Stroll through the main halls or pose for pictures in front of a staircase that leads nowhere. This spot is sure to make a cool story after your trip.

Nearby Recommended Hotel: Located in an accessible but serene part of Woodstock, Woodstock Way Hotel is 15 minutes from the Overlook Mountain trailhead. In a rustic but chic setup, well-appointed rooms offer knotty pine furniture, turntables, and records. The onsite coffee shop makes delicious drinks all day.

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Rail Explorers in Catskills

Escape to the land of Rip Van Winkle . Legendary mountains and lush forests hold breathtaking views and boundless adventures. No matter when you visit, vacations are cooler here. Swim in crystal-clear lakes, tube on Esopus Creek , see autumn’s splendor from a vintage train, or ski at resorts like Hunter and Windham . Cast a line in the trout streams where American fly fishing began, hike to sparkling waterfalls, and savor farm-to-table fare in country inns.

Country roads lead to antique and art galleries in villages like Andes, Phoenicia and Woodstock, an art colony since 1902 and still the world’s most famous small town. Discover one-of-a-kind attractions like the hang-gliding capital of the Northeast and distinctive lodging, from The Roxbury’s groovy themed rooms to campsites at North-South Lake , the biggest state park in the Catskill Forest Preserve.

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The 10 Most Charming Towns in New York's Catskills

Rising from the Hudson River’s western bank, the Catskill Mountains span roughly 700,000 acres of ruggedly beautiful terrain, interspersed by idyllic lakes, gushing rivers, and historic towns. Although rural, the region boasts a vibrant cultural scene of farm-to-table eateries, breweries, and art galleries in addition to its natural splendor. Much of the Catskill region lies just two to three hours by car away from New York City, making it an accessible and tempting getaway for many. To help get your trip planning started, we’ve outlined the 10 most charming towns in New York’s Catskills. 

Livingston Manor

Although Livingston Manor is conveniently accessible from NY-17, the town’s quaint Main Street and setting along the Willowemoc Creek feels far more removed. The waterway’s thriving trout population has long attracted fly fishermen. You can catch your own dinner on a guided outing with the Livingston Manor Fly Fishing Club , which also houses a glamping site and stylish guest rooms, or sample smoked trout alongside other locally sourced bites at Main Street Farm back in town. Aside from its fly fishing appeal, there are plentiful nearby hiking trails, such as Wildcat Falls and the Balsam Lake Fire Tower. Reward your efforts at Catskill Brewery afterwards.  

Catskill embodies everything the region is known for: history, art, trendy cafes, and extraordinary scenery. The downtown core features a wonderful mix of boutiques and cafes in historic Victorian buildings. This particular spot on the Hudson River’s west bank has inspired numerous painters, namely Thomas Cole, the founder of the Hudson River School of Art. His former studio and residence can be toured to admire his brilliant landscape paintings and artifacts from his life. Across the Hudson at Olana State Historic Site , the former estate of painter Frederic Church is worth seeking out for its galleries and stunning architecture. Conveniently located beside Thomas Cole’s house, the Post Cottage offers elegant accommodation and spacious grounds. 

Narrowsburg

Situated on a scenic bend in the Delaware River, Narrowsburg’s Main Street is chock full of hip boutiques, galleries, and eateries. Just off the main drag, The Launderette merits a stop for delectable wood-fired pizza and exceptional views of the Delaware from its balcony. This portion of the river is also renowned for its water sports opportunities. Lander’s River Trips offers a range of tubing, rafting, kayaking, and canoeing excursions. While the Tusten Theatre and Delaware Valley Arts Alliance maintain an active cultural scene year-round, the annual Riverfest brings artists, performers, and artisans to the town each July for a vibrant street festival. 

Due south of Catskill, Saugerties occupies a picturesque setting on the Hudson that can be reached in just two hours by car from Manhattan. Downtown Saugerties is easily navigable on foot, with many restaurants, shops, and bars to explore. Load up on provisions and head south down Partition Street to Saugerties Village Beach for a picnic and refreshing dip in the calm water of Esopus Creek. A bit further out, the Esopus Bend Nature Preserve and Saugerties Lighthouse are lovely spots for a short hike. The Diamond Mills Hotel is a bit steep for the area, but the onsite amenities and private balconies overlooking the waterfront are worth splurging for. 

Courtesy of The Herwood Inn

The famous Woodstock Festival actually took place across the Catskills in Bethel, but the flourishing art and counter-culture scene here dates back much further than 1969. The Byrdcliffe Guild , which was founded in 1902 as a utopian artist colony, maintains a stacked schedule of classes, exhibitions, and performances on its 250-acre campus. Downtown Woodstock packs dozens of galleries, restaurants, specialty shops, and a weekend flea market in just a few blocks. Nearby, Overlook Mountain is a popular trek among skilled hikers for its expansive views, whereas the mile-long Comeau Property Trail is better suited for a leisurely stroll or playing disc golf. The boutique Herwood Inn embodies Woodstock’s creativity and quirkiness in its décor and guest room furnishings. 

Nestled between forested peaks on the Delaware River’s West Branch, Delhi packs a compelling food and art scene beside nature-based attractions. Dozens of cafes and restaurants line the town’s Main Street, including Quarter Moon Café and Catskilll Momos , known for their innovative fare and Himalayan cuisine, respectively. Just outside town, the renowned culinary arts program at SUNY Delhi showcases its students’ talents at Bluestone. Between meals, the well-maintained trail to Bramley Mountain’s 2,817-foot summit is a worthwhile jaunt north of downtown. Hikers will be rewarded with sweeping views from the fire tower and striking cliffs and caves along the way. The West Branch House is an ideal home base to explore downtown and beyond.  

Set right on the banks of the Beaverkill, Roscoe is another hotspot for fly fishing. To stock up on gear or schedule a guided trip, Catskill Flies is your best bet for finding the best spots to drop your line. The local brewery, Roscoe Beer Company , even has a live trout tank in its cozy tasting room and features the fish on many of its cans. Roscoe’s former fire station houses Prohibition Distillery, where you can sample gin, whiskey, and vodka or sip cocktails al fresco at the Bootlegger’s Alley Bar during summer. Outside of town, Russel Brook Falls and Buck Brook Alpacas make for great day trips to get reacquainted with nature and interact with these adorable, furry creatures. Staying at the Reynolds House Inn affords easy access to Roscoe’s downtown shops and eateries. 

Located in the heart of the Catskills, Windham is best-known as a convenient ski getaway from New York City. While Windham Mountain’s expansive trail system and terrain parks are certainly a big draw, there is still plenty to do after the snow melts. Mountain biking and hiking opportunities abound in the steep landscape. The ascent to Cave Mountain’s summit affords panoramic views, whereas the Windham Path trail is a gentler trek along the Batavia Kill. Windham’s historic downtown dates back to 1798 and wields a wide range of dining and nightlife options. Due to Windham Mountain’s popularity, lodging here is abundant compared to other Catskill towns. Eastwind Hotel is a top pick for its blend of rustic and contemporary design across its guest rooms and bar.  

This village of 309 is the smallest on our list. Many visitors stop just to refuel at the famous Phoenicia Diner , but there is enough in store here to occupy a long-weekend getaway. Several trailheads leading from town cater to all skill levels, including the Tanbark loop, Mount Tremper, and Cross Mountain. Meandering between these peaks, the Esopus Creek’s class II rapids are an exhilarating and refreshing adventure, but take note that Town Tinker is closed for tube rentals for the 2020 season. Fortunately, Rail Explorers is still operating pedal-powered vehicle rides along the historic Ulster & Delaware Railroad. After a full day in nature, Graham & Co. is a hip spot to relax poolside in full view of the surrounding mountains. 

Located in the Catskills’ northwestern reaches, Franklin’s Main Street is lined with pristine Greek Revival and Victorian homes alongside trendy antique vendors. The village of just 374 people also boasts one of the region’s best art scenes, which comes on full display during the summer months. Barring 2020, Franklin Stage Company hosts a packed performance schedule from July into September, and admission is granted on a donation basis. An annual self-guided art tour, Stagecoach Run , takes place in July between Franklin and neighboring Treadwell. More than 20 private homes, historic barns, and shops transform into art galleries showcasing mixed-media work by local artists. 

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Catskills Mountains, NY: The Ultimate Guide (Things to do Included)

Hey there, adventurer! Ever wanted to escape the city buzz for some mountain magic? The Catskills Mountains are your ticket to fun, right in New York’s backyard.

Think epic hikes, picture-perfect waterfalls, campfire stories, and a dash of history thrown in. Whether you’re looking to conquer peaks, laze by serene lakes, or simply grab that perfect sunset selfie, the Catskills have got you covered.

And guess what? We’ve pieced together all the must-dos and must-sees for you. Dive into this guide and get ready to uncover the Catskills’ coolest spots and secrets. Let’s get exploring!

Table of Contents

What Are the Catskills Mountains?

The Catskills Mountains are a majestic expanse in southeastern New York, stretching across vast forests, dramatic waterfalls, and prominent peaks. 

Far from just rocky terrains, the Catskills are a complex interplay of plateaus, valleys, and rivers, forming an intricate and alluring landscape.

Encompassing the area are numerous towns and villages, each offering a blend of adventure and relaxation. 

Dive deeper into the Catskills and you’ll find each corner—North, South, East, or West—has its own distinct charm, waiting to be explored.

History and Etymology

But the Catskills aren’t just about scenic beauty. Their essence lies in the stories they hold. Long before modern settlers, Native American tribes cherished these lands, leaving behind tales that the mountains still tell.

The term “Catskills” has intrigued many. Some say it originates from the Dutch “Kaaterskill,” translating to “Wildcat Creek”. 

Others think it has roots in a Native American phrase meaning “place of a clear, swift stream.” 

Whatever its origin, the name encapsulates a region bursting with culture, historical events, and unmatched natural beauty.

These mountains have also inspired artists, particularly those from the Hudson River School, and played pivotal roles in events like the Revolutionary War. 

As you explore the Catskills, remember that every path you tread, every view you admire, is steeped in history, waiting for you to become a part of its ever-evolving story.

The Four Regions of Catskills Mountains

The Catskills Mountains, with their expansive landscapes, deep-rooted history, and mesmerizing beauty, are not just a single destination. 

Rather, they’re a collection of experiences, each defined by its unique geographical region. 

To truly appreciate the Catskills, one must dive into its four distinct regions, each of which tells its own tale of wonder.

Northern Catskills (Greene County)

A stone’s throw away from the buzzing city of Albany, Greene County in the Northern Catskills emerges as an oasis of natural wonders and historical narratives. 

As you journey into this remarkable region, the vibrant city life fades, and a canvas of expansive landscapes opens up, inviting exploration and adventure.

Dominating this visual spectacle is the towering Hunter Mountain. More than just a peak, it’s a rite of passage for hikers. 

Meandering trails take you through dense forests, past shimmering streams, eventually leading to panoramic vistas from the summit that’ll steal your breath away. 

For the snow enthusiasts, the winter turns it into a skiing paradise.

But Greene County isn’t confined to one mountain’s grandeur. Towns like Tannersville and Windham, nestled among the mountains, become perfect bases for your Catskills exploration. 

These charming hamlets, with their rustic appeal and friendly locals, offer insights into the region’s rich tapestry of history and culture.

Speaking of history, the county boasts sites like the Thomas Cole National Historic Site, dedicated to the founder of the Hudson River School of painting. 

Such sites provide a cultural counterpoint to the overwhelming natural beauty, offering a balanced experience.

If water is your element, then the Hudson River won’t disappoint. Not just a water body, it’s an adventure hub, with whitewater rafting opportunities that are sure to spike your adrenaline.

For those moments when you want to pause and reflect, serene lakes like North-South Lake, the largest in the Catskills, provide the perfect backdrop. Campgrounds nearby, such as the North-South Lake Campground, let you sleep under a blanket of stars, bringing you closer to nature’s heart.

Eastern Catskills (Ulster County): Where Nature Meets History

Journey just a short distance from the historic city of Poughkeepsie, and you’ll find yourself in the embrace of Ulster County, a gem in the Eastern Catskills. 

A land where every bend in the road reveals a new tale, and where nature’s masterpiece blends seamlessly with echoes of the past.

Ulster’s natural crown jewel is undoubtedly the Shawangunk Ridge. Nicknamed the “Gunks,” this rock formation isn’t merely geological; it’s an invitation.

Climbers from far and wide come to test their mettle against its rugged façade, while others simply admire the otherworldly vistas it grants to its summits.

But as captivating as the landscape is, the soul of Ulster County lies in its towns and their storied histories. 

Towns such as Woodstock and Kingston aren’t just names on a map; they are living chronicles. 

Woodstock, though famed for the iconic 1969 music festival (which, fun fact, took place nearby in Bethel), continues to thrive as a haven for artists and musicians. 

A stroll here might lead you to impromptu street performances or galleries showcasing local talents.

Kingston, with the distinction of being New York’s first capital, wears its history proudly. 

The Stockade District brims with colonial-era buildings, each narrating tales of yesteryears. 

As you walk its streets, the waterfront beckons, offering both scenic views and a host of activities.

Nature enthusiasts have their pick of trails, with the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail providing an especially picturesque journey through diverse terrains. 

And for those who like their adventures a bit more aquatic, the Rondout Creek offers both serene boating and exciting kayaking opportunities.

Whether you’re setting up camp beneath the open sky, choosing a quaint B&B in one of the historic towns, or venturing to the Ashokan Reservoir for its tranquil waterscape, 

Ulster County promises diversity in every experience. It’s a place where every visit feels like a rich tapestry of discovery, echoing with the harmonies of nature, history, and culture.

Southern Catskills (Sullivan County)

Sullivan County, nestled in the Southern Catskills, strikes a harmonious balance between nostalgic charm and vibrant modernity. 

Easily accessed from cities like Scranton, its beauty and culture have been a magnet for visitors for decades.

This region once thrived as the heart of the “Borscht Belt,” an era marked by grand hotels and sizzling entertainment venues. 

Echoes of that golden age still resonate in Monticello, a lively town that once hosted countless celebrities and artists. Today, it offers a diverse range of dining and shopping options for visitors.

Bethel, another jewel of Sullivan County, is forever etched in history as the site of the iconic Woodstock festival of 1969. 

Now, the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts stands as a testament to that musical legacy, drawing performances from international stars and burgeoning talents alike.

Nature too plays its part in Sullivan’s allure. The shimmering waters of the Delaware River present opportunities for both introspective moments by the banks and adrenaline-packed rafting adventures. 

Numerous trails dot the landscape, appealing to both casual strollers and avid hikers. The Neversink River, with its sparkling cascades, offers idyllic spots for fishing enthusiasts.

Liberty, with its verdant parks and unique boutiques, is an ideal base for those looking to explore the region at a leisurely pace. Its historical sites, including vintage railroad structures, beckon those interested in a trip down memory lane.

Western Catskills (Delaware County)

Venture into Delaware County, the heart of the Western Catskills, and you’ll find yourself enveloped in a landscape where nature still holds sway. 

Accessible from cities like Binghamton, this part of the Catskills is a testament to untouched beauty and serenity.

The towns of Andes and Delhi stand out, each boasting their own unique appeal. Andes, with its quaint streets, offers an array of antique shops that lure in those with an eye for treasures from the past.

Delhi, on the other hand, showcases local history in its museums and exudes a welcoming community spirit during its events and festivals.

For the nature enthusiast, the opportunities seem boundless. Dense forests stretch as far as the eye can see, their silence broken only by the chirping of birds or the distant call of wildlife. 

The Beaverkill River, renowned for its trout fishing, meanders through the county, presenting both a challenge for anglers and a peaceful retreat for those who simply want to enjoy its banks.

Trails crisscross the region, leading the intrepid explorer to hidden waterfalls and secluded clearings. 

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or someone looking for a gentle walk, Delaware County has a trail that fits your pace. 

Camping here becomes an experience of its own, with clear starry nights and the gentle hum of nature as your backdrop.

Historical landmarks, too, pepper the landscape. Old barns, churches, and bridges tell tales of a time gone by, while local artisans in hamlets like Roxbury bring forward a blend of tradition and innovation in their crafts.

The Western Catskills, particularly Delaware County, beckons those seeking a genuine escape. 

Here, amidst the rolling hills and tranquil rivers, you can reconnect with nature, relive history, and rejuvenate your spirit.

Experience the Catskills Mountains Through the Seasons

The Catskills Mountains are not just a destination, but an ever-evolving spectacle, metamorphosing with each passing season. 

Let’s delve deeper into the heart of the Catskills, understanding its seasonal transitions and uncovering the treasures they offer.

Sizzling Summer in the Catskills

The Hub of Adventure and Leisure Summer caresses the Catskills with a warm embrace, infusing the air with vitality. 

The lush greens are accentuated under the shimmering sun, while the rivers, sparkling under its glow, invite you for a refreshing dip.

The towns of Woodstock and Phoenicia become bustling hubs during this time, with outdoor cafes and local markets in full swing.

Water enthusiasts can paddle through the serene lakes of Sullivan County or dive into river rafting experiences in the Delaware River. 

If land-based adventures are more your style, then the region’s expansive hiking and biking trails, like the Escarpment Trail, offer varying degrees of challenges with rewarding panoramic views.

For a surreal night experience, camping in areas like North-South Lake offers a celestial display, as the Milky Way stretches across the night sky.

Autumn in the Catskills

A Tapestry of Colors and Celebrations Autumn arrives in the Catskills like an artist with a palette, splashing hues of amber, ochre, and ruby across the landscape.

The picturesque Route 28 offers a drive like no other, with trees creating a kaleidoscopic canopy overhead.

Popular spots like the Kaaterskill Falls become even more mesmerizing, framed by the colors of fall. 

The region becomes a haven for photographers and artists, drawing inspiration from nature’s grandeur.

Local farms, like the Apple Pond Farm in Sullivan County, offer apple-picking and hayrides, while towns host autumn festivals, combining local art, music, and harvest-themed foods, mirroring the Catskills’ rich heritage and bountiful produce.

Winter in the Catskills

A Wonderland of Snow and Sports The wintry embrace of the Catskills is nothing short of magical. 

Snow blankets the mountains and valleys, transforming them into pristine expanses of white. 

Towns like Tannersville and Windham become essential stops for winter sports enthusiasts.

Belleayre and Hunter Mountain ski resorts buzz with activity, providing slopes for skiing and snowboarding. 

But if you’re keen on a more serene experience, areas around Delaware County offer tranquil snowshoeing trails. 

For a heartwarming memory, partake in a local tradition by ice fishing in the numerous frozen lakes and ponds.

End your chilly day by retreating to cozy cabins, where stories unfold around fireplaces, as mugs of hot cocoa provide warmth.

Springtime in the Catskills

Nature’s Reawakening With spring, the Catskills come alive, as if the mountains and forests are stretching after a long slumber. 

The frosty veil lifts, revealing blooming wildflowers, and streams, like the Beaverkill River, gush with renewed energy.

Hiking during this season, especially around areas like the Ashokan Reservoir, allows you to witness nature’s resurgence firsthand. 

The air is filled with the melodies of birds returning home, making it a prime time for bird enthusiasts.

For travelers seeking solitude, spring in the Catskills offers a reprieve from the usual crowds. 

Benefit from off-season rates at accommodations, and immerse yourself in the tranquility and rejuvenation that only the Catskills in spring can provide.

10 Top Things to Do in the Catskills Mountains: An Ultimate Guide

The Catskills Mountains, an emblematic gem in New York State’s crown, beckon adventurers and peace-seekers alike. 

This vast expanse of natural beauty blends thrilling recreational activities with soul-soothing retreats, promising an unforgettable experience for everyone. 

Drawing from the vast treasure trove of the Catskills, here are ten unmissable activities:

Water Adventures in the Catskills Mountains

The Catskills Mountains, located in New York State, are a prime destination for a variety of water activities, thanks to its rich assortment of lakes, rivers, and creeks.

Kayaking and Canoeing  

Among the top spots for these pursuits are North-South Lake and the Pepacton Reservoir. These water bodies offer calm surfaces, ideal for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. 

As a popular destination, several outfitters provide rentals, and for newcomers, guided tours are available. 

Birds like the Great Blue Heron and wildlife such as beavers can often be spotted during these excursions.

White-Water Rafting

Esopus Creek and the Delaware River are known for their challenging rapids. They cater to a range of rafting experiences, from Class I to Class IV rapids. 

For those unfamiliar, Class I is suitable for beginners, while Class IV demands advanced rafting skills. Local companies offer guided rafting trips, ensuring a safe and thrilling adventure.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

This activity is gaining traction, especially in calmer areas of the region’s lakes. SUP provides both a tranquil water experience and a solid core workout. 

Many local shops provide both rentals and introductory lessons for those new to the sport.

Safety and Preparation

Engaging in water activities requires diligence. Here are some tips:

• Always wear a US Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
• Check water conditions and weather forecasts before heading out.
• Utilize local guides and instructors, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or activity.
• For rafting, protective gear like helmets and water shoes is essential, especially in higher-class rapids.
• Stay Hydrated: Though you’re surrounded by water, it’s essential to bring drinkable water to keep hydrated, especially during warmer days. Dehydration can impair judgment and reflexes.
• Group Adventures: Always venture out with at least one other person, especially in remote areas. Not only does this ensure help is at hand in case of emergencies, but shared experiences can be more enriching.
• Respect Local Wildlife: The Catskills is home to a diverse range of aquatic and shoreline fauna. Maintain a safe distance and never feed the animals. Remember, we’re visitors in their habitat.

The Catskills Mountains not only offers breathtaking landscapes but also a comprehensive set of aquatic adventures suitable for all levels of experience. 

Utilize local resources, prioritize safety, and you’re set for an unmatched water escapade.

Cycling in the Catskills: Trails for Every Adventurer

The Catskills, with its versatile terrains, has carved a niche for itself in the heart of cycling enthusiasts. 

Each trail promises not just a workout, but a journey through nature’s dynamic canvas.

• Wallkill Valley Rail Trail: Stretching over 22 miles, this trail starts from Wallkill to Kingston in Ulster County. Once a railroad, it’s now a path flanked by wetlands, orchards, and historic remnants.
• Catskill Scenic Trail: Beginning in Roxbury and extending 26 miles to Bloomville, this trail primarily runs through the Western Catskills. It’s renowned for its gentle grades, making it ideal for families and casual cyclists.
• Ashokan Reservoir Promenade: Located near Olivebridge, this 3-mile trail offers panoramic views of the Catskills Mountains reflecting in the vast reservoir. A flat path, it’s accessible for all ages.
• Kaaterskill Rail Trail: A shorter trail spanning 1.5 miles, it links the Mountain Top Historical Society in Haines Falls to Laurel House Road. The path guides cyclists through hardwood forests and culminates in the awe-inspiring sight of Kaaterskill Falls.
• Vernooy Kill State Forest: Situated in Kerhonkson, this 6-mile round trip journey takes you through dense forests and historic ruins, finally leading to the picturesque Vernooy Falls.

For an immersive experience, ensure your bike is equipped for varied terrains. 

Don’t forget to pack essentials and respect trail etiquette to keep these pathways pristine for fellow cyclists and future generations.

Hiking in the Catskills Mountains 

Hiking in the Catskills Mountains offers not just a physical challenge but also a feast for the senses, a journey through history, and a touch of the sublime. 

As you lace up your hiking boots and prepare to embark on an adventure. Here are our 12 favorite hikes in the Catskills , let the narratives of these trails inspire you.

The Escarpment Trail: Winding through 23 miles, this trail whispers tales of the bygone era. One can almost hear the echoes of the once-thriving Hotel Kaaterskill. 

Reaching the pinnacle, Windham High Peak, time seems to stand still as autumn foliage engulfs the horizon in fiery hues. 

It’s a challenging trek, one that’s best spread across two days, allowing nature’s symphony to seep in.

Overlook Mountain Trail: A trail steeped in mystery and history, the ruins of the Overlook Mountain House stand as silent witnesses to stories past. 

As the path meanders 5 miles round trip, it culminates in a fire tower, offering a mesmerizing 360° view—a visual sonnet composed of rugged peaks and dense greenery.

The Balsam Lake Mountain: Every step on this 4.3-mile trail is an intimate dance with nature. 

It’s like wandering through an outdoor museum, with the oldest fire observation tower in New York as its centerpiece. 

And as the path elevates, the expansive embrace of the central Catskills unfolds—a sight that lingers long after the hike.

The Blackhead Range Trail: At 4.9 miles, this trail is a testament to endurance and beauty. 

As it challenges with its trifecta of peaks, it rewards with breathtaking vistas—especially from Black Dome. 

Each ascent is a dialogue with the mountains, a test of will, and a brush with the sublime.

The Hunter Mountain Trail: This 7.1-mile journey is a communion with the skies. Climbing to one of the highest fire towers in New York State, the world feels both expansive and intimately close. 

The panoramic views from the summit, 4,040 feet high, paint a canvas of unparalleled beauty.

The Wittenberg-Cornell-Slide Trail: Spanning 13.8 miles, this circuit trail is an ode to the Catskill’s iconic peaks. 

The view from Wittenberg Mountain isn’t just scenic—it’s poetic, almost like nature’s verses coming alive, beckoning hikers to pause, reflect, and cherish.

The Mount Tremper Trail: History and nature entwine in this 6-mile trail. 

The climb, while demanding, is a continuous serenade of views—culminating in the Hudson Valley’s embrace and the distant gaze of the Eastern High Peaks.

The Finger Lakes Trail: Part of a grand 580-mile network, this Catskills segment is nature’s secret corridor. 

From tranquil ponds to dense canopies, it’s an ever-evolving canvas for the nature enthusiast, with each mile narrating a distinct tale.

The Twin Mountain Trails: A 6.4-mile symphony of landscapes, this trail is a duet of two summits. Both peaks serenade hikers with ethereal views of the Catskills, especially as the sun kisses the horizon, casting golden hues.

The Bellvale Mountain Trail: A path less trodden, this 7.5-mile trail invites into the embrace of rocky ridges and serene forests. It’s a meditative journey, where each step syncs with nature’s heartbeat.

Kaaterskill Falls Trail: A short 2.6-mile trail, yet every step resonates with the roar of New York’s highest two-tiered waterfall. 

Beyond the falls, scenic vantage points offer painterly views, as if the Catskill Mountains paused to pose.

The Ashokan Rail Trail: History chugs alongside on this 11.5-mile trail that traces the old Ulster & Delaware Railroad. 

With the Ashokan Reservoir as its companion, the journey feels like a leisurely walk through a watercolor painting.

In the Catskills, every trail is a narrative, a dialogue between the hiker and the mountains. Which story will you choose to live?

Camping in the Catskills Mountains:

The allure of the Catskills lies not just in its daytime adventures but also in its nightly retreats. Camping here isn’t just an activity; it’s an immersion. Here’s a glimpse of some key campgrounds that promise a blend of serenity and adventure.

• North-South Lake Campground: The largest public campground in the Catskills, North-South Lake is synonymous with tranquil waters and forested paths. 

With over 200 campsites, it offers a mix of fishing, boating, and hiking opportunities. 

The nearby historical sites and panoramic vistas of the Hudson Valley only amplify its charm.

• Woodland Valley Campground: Nestled at the heart of the Catskills Forest Preserve, this campground offers a picturesque setting beside Woodland Creek. 

It’s not just a camping spot but also a gateway to numerous trailheads. 

Campers cherish the symphonic sounds of the flowing water, creating a lullaby at dusk.

• Devil’s Tombstone Campground: One of the oldest in the Catskills, this secluded campground provides a rustic experience. 

Surrounded by mountains and dense forests, it’s a haven for hikers. The nearby Notch Lake is a bonus, offering peaceful vistas and a calming ambiance.

• Beaverkill Valley Campground: Located beside the historic Beaverkill Covered Bridge, this campground is a gem for anglers, given its proximity to the renowned Beaverkill River. 

Rich in both scenic beauty and history, it offers a serene setting for campfires, storytelling, and star-gazing.

• Little Pond Campground: A retreat for nature lovers, Little Pond offers both campsites and cabins overlooking its namesake pond. 

Whether you’re canoeing in the tranquil waters or hiking the surrounding trails, the blend of water, woods, and wildlife makes it a cherished camping destination.

• Kenneth L. Wilson Campground: Away from the hustle and bustle, this serene campground beckons with wide open spaces, forested trails, and a peaceful pond. 

Whether you’re bird-watching, fishing, or just unwinding, it offers a tapestry of natural delights.

• Mongaup Pond Campground: The allure of Mongaup lies in its vastness – it’s the largest body of water in the Catskills Park. 

With sites nestled amidst hardwood forests and the pond offering boating and fishing opportunities, it’s a paradise for water enthusiasts.

Camping in the Catskills under its starlit canopy is a transformative experience. Here, amidst nature’s embrace, you’ll find both adventure and tranquility, as the mountains share their timeless stories.

Scalable Peaks in the Catskills:

Venture beyond the beaten path and challenge yourself by scaling the magnificent peaks of the Catskills. 

Each mountain is unique, offering varying degrees of difficulty and breathtaking views, revealing the Catskills’ grandeur from dizzying heights. 

Here are 9 peaks we have scaled to their summits :

Slide Mountain:

The undisputed monarch of the Catskills, Slide Mountain reigns as the tallest peak. 

Climbing its slopes rewards hikers with unparalleled vistas of surrounding mountains. 

Its trails weave through dense woods, culminating in a summit where the Catskills unfurl in all their glory.

At 4,180 ft we recommend the Curtis-Ormsbee Trail provides a scenic approach, with multiple viewpoints before reaching the summit.

Panther Mountain:

A testament to the power of nature, Panther Mountain’s origin is tied to an ancient meteor impact. 

Today, its well-trodden paths lead adventurers through verdant forests to vantage points overlooking the valleys and waters below.

At 3,720 ft, the Giant Ledge-Panther Mountain Trail is a favorite, providing both a challenge and scenic rewards.

Hunter Mountain

Elevating the Catskills experience, literally and figuratively, Hunter Mountain boasts of an observation tower at its summit. 

While the climb might test your resolve, the panoramic view from the tower rewards in sheer visual delight.

At 4,040 ft, the Becker Hollow Trail, though steep, is the shortest and most direct route to the summit.

Black Dome:

A trifecta of challenge, beauty, and height, Black Dome is a must-conquer for peak-baggers. 

Its ascent intersperses rugged terrain with serene nature moments, culminating in a summit experience that encapsulates the essence of the Catskills.

At 3,980 ft, the Black Dome Trail is the most popular, offering thrilling ascents and descents.

Cornell Mountain

A neighbor to Wittenberg, Cornell Mountain offers a rugged terrain that promises a sense of accomplishment to those who scale its heights.

The hike features rocky ledges, pristine woods, and glimpses of neighboring peaks.

At 3,860 ft, the Wittenberg-Cornell-Slide Trail is a challenging but rewarding route, traversing three major peaks.

Wittenberg Mountain

With arguably one of the most rewarding summit views, Wittenberg Mountain is a favorite among hikers. 

Its trail challenges with steep inclines but placates with sweeping views of the Ashokan Reservoir and beyond.

At 3,780 ft, approach via the Woodland Valley Campground for a comprehensive Catskills experience.

Peekamoose Mountain:

Part of the southern Catskills, Peekamoose offers an exhilarating hike that showcases nature’s bounty. 

Streams, woods, and vistas accompany hikers as they journey to the summit, where clear days reveal distant peaks.

At 3,843 ft, the Peekamoose-Table Mountain Trail showcases nature’s best, from streams to viewpoints.

Halcott Mountain:

A lesser-known gem, Halcott Mountain beckons the off-beat adventurer. 

With no marked trails, the climb is a wild and untamed experience, but the serenity and raw beauty at the summit are unparalleled.

At 3,537 ft, the bushwhack from the parking area on County Road 3 offers an untamed adventure for seasoned hikers.

Thomas Cole Mountain

Named after the founder of the Hudson River School of art, this peak pays homage to its namesake with scenic beauty. 

Its trails offer a mix of terrains, leading to a summit where the horizon is painted with rolling mountains and valleys.

At 3,940 ft the Black Dome Range Trail covers Thomas Cole, Black Dome, and Blackhead, making it a peak bagger’s delight.

Scaling these peaks is more than just a physical endeavor. It’s a journey of discovery, where each step brings you closer to the heart of the Catskills, revealing stories etched in rocks, forests, and horizons.

Also Read: 9 PEAKS IN THE CATSKILL MOUNTAINS TO HIKE TODAY!

Spotting Animals in the Catskills:

The Catskills Mountains, with their lush forests and pristine waters, are teeming with diverse wildlife . 

Nature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike can spot an array of species, each adding to the rich tapestry of the region’s ecosystem. 

Here are some notable animals to look out for:

White-Tailed Deer

These graceful creatures are abundant throughout the Catskills Mountains.

Often seen at dawn or dusk, their large ears and white-flagged tails make them instantly recognizable.

The Catskills Mountains serve as a refuge for black bears.

While sightings are a thrill, it’s vital to practice bear-safe habits, ensuring both human and bear safety.

Elusive and solitary, the bobcat’s tufted ears and short tail distinguish them.

Their spotted coat helps them blend seamlessly into the wooded landscape.

Eastern Coyote

A mix of western coyote and wolf, these adaptable predators are often heard yipping at night.

Their presence is a testament to the Catskills’ healthy ecosystem.

The architects of the animal kingdom, beavers shape the landscape by constructing dams. Look for their lodges in the Catskills’ water bodies.

River Otter

Playful and agile, river otters can be seen sliding down muddy banks or catching fish. Their presence often indicates clean, healthy waters.

With its bushy tail and sharp gaze, the red fox is a sight to behold. They’re active mostly during twilight, displaying their keen hunting skills.

A symbol of national pride, bald eagles are making a comeback in the Catskills. Scan the skies or tall trees near water bodies for a glimpse of these majestic raptors.

Ruffed Grouse

Often mistaken for pheasants, these birds are known for their fan-like tails and drumming sounds during mating displays.

Eastern Box Turtle

These slow-moving reptiles, with their high-domed shells, are a joy to spot. They’re often found in moist woodlands or near water sources.

As you explore the Catskills, tread lightly and respect the habitats of these incredible creatures . With binoculars in hand and a quiet approach, you can experience the wonder of the region’s rich wildlife firsthand.

Also Read: WE SAW 12 ANIMALS IN THE CATSKILLS DURING OUR CAMPING TRIP! (BEST SPOTS AND TIPS INCLUDED)

Scenic Drives in the Catskills Mountains:

The Catskills are not just for hikers and campers; they’re also a dream destination for those who love to explore by car. 

The region offers numerous scenic drives, each promising breathtaking views, charming towns, and a slice of Catskills history. 

Here are some must-drive routes:

Route 28: Kingston to Andes:

This picturesque drive meanders through the heart of the Catskills.

Flanked by forests, streams, and small towns, Route 28 provides a panoramic view of the region’s natural beauty. Stop at Phoenicia, a quaint town known for its eateries and artsy vibes.

Mountain Clove Scenic Byway:

A feast for the eyes, this route, stretching between Palenville and Pine Hill, boasts dramatic mountain vistas and deep valleys.

Highlights include the Kaaterskill Falls and the former artist colony of Platte Clove.

This winding route offers stunning views of gorges, waterfalls, and high peaks.

Don’t miss the famous Kaaterskill Falls trailhead, and take time to explore Tannersville, known for its vibrant art scene.

Route 97: The Upper Delaware Scenic Byway :

Following the Delaware River, this route offers picturesque river views and glimpses of bald eagles.

Historic towns like Callicoon and Narrowsburg dot the route, offering delightful detours.

Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway:

Beginning in Olive and ending in Andes, this drive covers the heart of the Catskills Park.

Experience the serene Ashokan Reservoir, explore mountaintop towns, and be charmed by the rich heritage and culture along the way.

Route 30: Schoharie Creek and Pepacton Reservoir:

Drive along pristine waters and dense woodlands.

The Pepacton Reservoir’s vastness contrasts with the winding Schoharie Creek, making this route diverse and visually appealing.

Route 214: Phoenicia to Hunter:

A relatively short drive, but incredibly scenic. This route is flanked by towering mountains and lush forests.

It’s an excellent gateway to the hiking trails of the Central Catskills.

As you drive through these routes, be sure to indulge in local eateries, artisan shops, and historical sites. 

The Catskills aren’t just about the destination; the journey, with its myriad vistas and surprises, is equally enchanting. Safe travels!

Fishing in the Catskills Mountains

The Catskills Mountains, often hailed as the birthplace of American fly fishing, offer an angler’s paradise with its numerous streams, rivers, and reservoirs teeming with trout. 

The pristine waters and the mountain backdrop create an idyllic setting for a day of casting the line. Here’s a glimpse into the best spots and species you can expect:

Beaverkill River: Heritage Spot: One of the most legendary trout streams in the US, the Beaverkill is famous for its rich fly-fishing history and brown trout. Ideal for both novices and pros, the river has numerous public access points.

Willowemoc Creek: Trout Territory: Flowing alongside Beaverkill, Willowemoc is slightly less known, providing a tranquil experience. It’s a prime location for brown and brook trout, especially during the early season.

Esopus Creek: Rapid Retreat: A tributary of the Hudson, Esopus offers fast-paced waters, making it a challenging yet rewarding spot. It’s abundant with brown trout, with the occasional rainbow trout making an appearance.

Neversink River : Wild Waters: Recognized as the birthplace of dry-fly fishing in America, Neversink is perfect for those seeking wild trout, particularly in its upper sections.

Delaware River (East and West Branches): Dual Delight: Both branches are well-regarded in the angling community, especially for their wild brown and rainbow trout. The West Branch is particularly favored for its prolific hatches.

Schoharie Creek: Mountain Stream: This creek, flowing through the heart of the Catskills, offers a delightful blend of brown and brook trout. The colder months are particularly good for brook trout here.

Ashokan Reservoir: Vast Venture: While the reservoir primarily supplies water to NYC, its vastness is also a haven for smallmouth bass, walleye, and the occasional trout. Remember, special permits are required to fish here.

Fishing in the Catskills isn’t just about the catch; it’s about immersing oneself in nature, understanding the rhythms of the water, and becoming a part of the region’s storied angling history. 

Whether you’re a fly fishing aficionado or a bait-casting enthusiast, the Catskills promises an unparalleled experience. 

Always ensure you have the necessary fishing permits and follow the local regulations to protect these cherished waters for future generations.

Harvest Season Festivities in the Catskills:

The Catskills come alive with hues of gold, orange, and crimson during the fall, marking the beginning of a time-honored celebration of the harvest season. 

The crisp mountain air fills with the scent of ripened apples, pumpkin spice, and the promise of festivities.

Apple Picking Delights:

Orchards laden with juicy apples beckon visitors to partake in the tradition of apple picking. 

Families, couples, and solo travelers alike can walk between rows of apple trees, choosing the perfect fruit to take home. 

The experience becomes even more delightful with the backdrop of colorful fall foliage.

Pumpkin Harvest:

Fields dotted with orange gourds signal the approach of Halloween and the joy of pumpkin carving. 

Selecting the ideal pumpkin, whether for a pie or a jack-o’-lantern, is a cherished ritual in the region.

Taste of the Season:

Local farms go beyond just harvests. They invite guests to indulge in fresh apple cider, warm pumpkin soup, and baked goods. 

Hayrides through golden fields and corn mazes add to the rustic charm of the season.

Explore the Historical Footprints in the Catskills:

The Catskills’ majestic landscapes hold tales from epochs gone by. From the footsteps of artists to the echoes of bygone resorts, the region is a tapestry of history waiting to be unraveled.

Thomas Cole National Historic Site:

The home of the founder of the Hudson River School of painting, this site provides a deep dive into the life and works of Thomas Cole.

Nestled in the town of Catskill, the house, studios, and picturesque grounds offer a firsthand experience of the artist’s inspiration.

Bygone Era of Resorts:

In the 20th century, the Catskills was known as the Borscht Belt, home to many resorts catering primarily to Jewish vacationers from New York City. 

While many of these establishments have now faded into history, their remnants — old buildings, swimming pools, and entertainment venues — stand as silent witnesses to a once-vibrant era. 

Exploring these sites evokes a nostalgia, a peek into a time when the region was the epitome of holiday luxury.

Historical Museums and Sites:

Beyond Cole and resorts, the Catskills boasts various museums and historical markers. 

They narrate tales of native inhabitants, settlers, wars, and the evolution of the region.

A journey through these sites offers a holistic understanding of the Catskills’ multifaceted past.

Landmarks in the Catskills Mountains

The Catskills Mountains, renowned for their scenic vistas and recreational havens, also possess a rich tapestry of architectural marvels that weave history and beauty into one seamless narrative. 

From structures that served pivotal roles in the past to landmarks that have become synonymous with the region’s identity, the Catskills are a treasure trove waiting to be explored. 

Let us embark on a journey to discover some of the most iconic structures and landmarks of the Catskills Mountains.

Fire Towers and Their Significance

Catskills’ fire towers, standing tall and regal, are not just vantage points offering panoramic views but also crucial sentinels that played a significant role in forest conservation. 

Historically, these towers were the first line of defense against wildfires, with vigilant observers scanning the horizons for the slightest hint of smoke, ensuring rapid responses to any threat.

Constructed primarily during the early 20th century, these towers served as a nexus between human settlements and the vast wilderness of the Catskills. 

Their establishment marked a conscious effort to preserve and protect the delicate balance of the region’s ecosystem.

Over the years, as technology advanced and the need for manned lookouts decreased, many of these towers faced neglect and potential demolition. 

However, recognizing their historical and cultural significance, conservationists and local communities rallied to restore and preserve them. 

Today, they stand as a testament to the region’s dedication to conservation, blending history with nature.

Many of the towers have been refurbished and are open to the public, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the mountain ranges. 

Climbing one is not just a physical journey but also a voyage through time, offering insights into a bygone era.

Notable Landmarks Worth a Visit

The Catskills Mountains are home to a myriad of landmarks, each with its unique story and significance.

Opus 40: Carved out of blue stone over a span of nearly 40 years by sculptor Harvey Fite, Opus 40 is an architectural wonder and a testament to human perseverance and vision. 

This intricate earthwork sculpture park spans over six acres and features meticulously laid out pathways, terraces, and pools. 

Visiting Opus 40 is like stepping into an artistic dream, where nature and human ingenuity coalesce.

Thomas Cole National Historic Site: This is the former home and studio of Thomas Cole, the founder of the Hudson River School of art. 

The site offers insights into the life of this iconic artist and the birth of American landscape painting. 

The estate is beautifully preserved, with Cole’s artwork, personal effects, and the scenic surroundings that inspired him.

The Kaaterskill Falls: While not a man-made structure, no visit to the Catskills is complete without witnessing the splendor of the Kaaterskill Falls. 

This two-tiered waterfall is one of the highest in New York and has inspired countless artists, writers, and poets with its ethereal beauty.

Allaben Burial Ground: This historical cemetery offers a glimpse into the lives of early settlers in the region. 

With tombstones dating back to the 1800s, it’s a serene spot that connects visitors with the region’s rich past.

Delaware and Ulster Railroad: This historic railroad offers scenic train rides through the heart of the Catskills, taking visitors on a journey through time. 

The meticulously restored trains and stations, coupled with the picturesque landscape, make for an unforgettable experience.

Overview – In the Catskills Mountains, the architectural and historical landmarks are threads that add depth, color, and richness. 

They remind us that while nature provides a stunning backdrop, it’s the human stories, aspirations, and endeavors that breathe life into it. 

Exploring the Catskills’ architectural gems provides a holistic understanding of the region, blending the allure of nature with the indomitable human spirit. 

So, the next time you find yourself in the Catskills, remember to delve beyond the trails and lakes, and discover the stories etched in stone and history.

Catskills Mountains in Popular Culture

Nestled within New York, the Catskills Mountains are not only a beacon of natural beauty but have also woven themselves into the fabric of popular culture. 

This region has inspired countless stories, artists, and movements, leaving an indelible mark on American history. 

Among these cultural contributions, one stands out prominently — The Borscht Belt. Let’s delve into this captivating era and explore how the Catskills played a pivotal role in shaping entertainment and cultural nuances.

The Borscht Belt: A Cultural Phenomenon

In the early 20th century, the Catskills Mountains became the epicenter of a unique cultural movement. 

The Borscht Belt, named after the beet soup popular in Eastern European Jewish cuisine, was a colloquial term for the string of resorts and entertainment venues that sprang up in the region. 

Primarily patronized by Jewish families from New York City, these establishments offered a haven from the sweltering summer heat and the crowded urban environment.

But the Borscht Belt was more than just a collection of hotels and summer camps. 

It was an incubator for talent, a stage where comedians, musicians, and performers of all kinds could hone their skills and entertain captive audiences. 

Icons like Mel Brooks, Joan Rivers, and Rodney Dangerfield, among others, cut their teeth in the Catskills, setting the stage for their illustrious careers.

Beyond entertainment, the Borscht Belt also played a pivotal role in cultural exchange and the evolution of American Jewish identity. 

For many Jewish families, these resorts were more than just vacation spots; they were communal spaces. 

Here, traditions blended with modern American sensibilities, Yiddish theater found a new audience, and the echoes of klezmer music intertwined with jazz rhythms.

As the decades rolled on, the allure of the Borscht Belt began to wane. 

The advent of air travel, changing vacation preferences, and socio-economic shifts led to the decline of these once-vibrant resorts. 

By the late 20th century, many of the iconic establishments had shuttered, and the Borscht Belt era had ostensibly come to an end.

However, the legacy of this cultural phenomenon endures. Today, the abandoned resorts and venues stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era, but their impact reverberates through contemporary pop culture. 

Films like “Dirty Dancing” capture the essence of the Borscht Belt experience, while artists and performers influenced by this era continue to shape entertainment.

Furthermore, a renewed interest in the Borscht Belt has been observed in recent years. Historians, artists, and curious travelers are retracing this chapter of the Catskills’ history. 

Documentaries have been made, books penned, and art installations created, all in an attempt to capture and preserve the magic of this era. 

New resorts and boutique hotels, while different in character, are springing up, hinting at a potential renaissance of the Catskills as a cultural hub.

In many ways, the Borscht Belt phenomenon encapsulates the spirit of the Catskills — a blend of natural splendor, cultural dynamism, and historical depth. 

While the footlights may have dimmed and the stages might have fallen silent, the stories, laughter, and music of the Borscht Belt era still echo through the mountains, rivers, and valleys of the Catskills.

Getting Around: Transportation in the Catskills Mountains

The Catskills Mountains, with their vast landscapes and picturesque views, are a traveler’s dream. 

But to truly immerse oneself in their splendor, understanding the nuances of transportation within this region is crucial. 

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a casual visitor, or someone looking for a serene escape, the Catskills offer various transportation options to cater to your travel desires.

Roadways and Highways: The Scenic Drives

The Catskills are interwoven with a network of well-maintained roads and highways that meander through its verdant valleys and over its majestic peaks. 

Driving here is not just a means to reach a destination but an experience in itself. 

Routes like the Catskill Scenic Byway and the Shawangunk Mountains Scenic Byway are more than just roads; they’re panoramic canvases that unfold the region’s beauty with every turn.

For those who prefer a more environmentally-friendly option, many towns in the Catskills offer electric vehicle charging stations, making it easy for visitors to travel sustainably.

Public Transportation: Convenient and Eco-Friendly

For those without personal vehicles or those who prefer to reduce their carbon footprint, the Catskills provides reliable public transportation options. 

Local bus services, such as the Catskill Mountain Transport and the Ulster County Area Transit, connect major towns and tourist attractions. 

These services are not only budget-friendly but also offer a unique perspective of the local life as you journey through the mountains.

Cycling: For the Adventurous Soul

The Catskills encourage sustainable and healthy modes of transportation, and what better way than cycling? 

With a plethora of well-marked bike trails ranging from beginner to advanced, cycling in the Catskills is both a recreational activity and a means to get around. 

Trails like the Catskill Scenic Rail Trail offer a combination of history and nature, taking cyclists past remnants of old railroads and through dense forests.

Waterways: A Different Perspective

Yes, you read that right! The Catskills isn’t just about mountains and roads. 

With its numerous lakes and rivers, water transportation, especially kayaking and canoeing, is a popular choice among visitors. 

Exploring the region’s waterways provides a unique vantage point and allows for a tranquil experience amidst nature.

Walking and Hiking: At Nature’s Pace

Sometimes, the best way to explore a place is on foot. 

The Catskills, known for its hiking trails, offers this intimate mode of transportation to those eager to connect deeply with the environment. 

Trails range from easy walks, like the Kaaterskill Rail Trail, to challenging hikes up Slide Mountain. 

Each trail presents its own set of wonders, from cascading waterfalls to panoramic mountain views.

12 Animals in the Catskills We’ve Seen on Multiple Hikes! (Hotspots and tips included)

9 Peaks in the Catskill Mountains We Hike Up Every Year! (Activities Included)

12 Best Hiking Trails in the Catskills for Bird Watching and Mesmerizing Views

Key takeaways.

Throughout our deep dive into the Catskills Mountains, we’ve journeyed from its four distinct regions to its seasonal splendor. 

We’ve marveled at its recreational delights and cherished its architectural and cultural landmarks. 

The Borscht Belt revived memories of bygone eras while transportation modes offered a practical guide to modern exploration. 

The Catskills is more than a destination; it’s a living tapestry of experiences. As you reflect on all we’ve uncovered, remember: the Catskills beckon, timeless and waiting. Your next adventure is just a visit away.

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15 Top-Rated Things to Do in the Catskills, NY

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Aug 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

New Yorkers have escaped to nature in the Catskills for decades. It's no wonder, with all that this bucolic region has to offer: quaint country towns, wide-open spaces, pristine freshwater streams, and inspiring mountains.

From the 1920s through the 1970s, the Catskills region was a top summertime destination for city dwellers seeking fresh air, cooler temperatures, and recreational activities. During the Catskills heyday in the 1950s, the region had over 500 hotels.

Because of the abundance of Jewish family resorts, the area became known as the "Borscht Belt," and memories of its heyday still trigger nostalgia for New Yorkers of a certain generation.

The Catskills appear to be making a comeback. With a renaissance in tourism over the past number of years, fancy new lodgings have been built, and some of the small rural towns have become trendy.

Recently opened or reopened hotels, bungalow colonies, and resorts cater to modern visitors. Some old-time resorts still offer the classic Catskills all-inclusive vacation experience, as pictured in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Netflix series.

Nowadays, visitors come to the Catskills for a summer vacation , a relaxing weekend getaway , or for outdoor adventures : hiking, biking, camping, boating, bird-watching, and fly-fishing as well as skiing during wintertime. Other things to do include visiting the farmers' markets, sampling the local cuisine at farm-to-table restaurants, and taking scenic drives.

Where to base your stay in the Catskills depends on your interests. The Northern Catskills boast dramatic natural scenery and some of the most scenic hiking trails, while the Western Catskills near Route 17 is a premier fly-fishing destination .

At the heart of the Catskills is Phoenicia , a charming village with hippie vibes, as well as easy access to hiking trails and other outdoor adventures. Famed for the 1960s music festival, Woodstock is the Catskills' most touristy and developed town, brimming with artisan boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and inviting cafés.

Tips : If visiting outside of summer, keep in mind that shops, cafés, and restaurants are usually only open on Saturdays and Sundays in the Catskills' small towns. In the larger towns, the local businesses might be open for long weekends, from Thursday through Monday or Tuesday.

Learn about the best places to visit and things to do in this beautiful countryside, just a two-hour drive from New York City . Whether for a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation, plan a fabulous visit with our list of the top things to do in the Catskills.

1. Hit the Hiking Trails

2. enjoy a relaxing summer vacation, 3. go fishing on the delaware river, 4. visit farmers' markets and farmstands, 5. dine at farm-to-table restaurants, 6. stay at a spa resort or on a working farm, 7. admire the mountain views, 8. pitch a tent at gorgeous campgrounds, 9. check out the charming small towns, 10. leaf-peeping in the fall, 11. try canoeing or kayaking, 12. take a ski trip in the wintertime, 13. stop at old-fashioned diners, 14. tee off on historic golf courses, 15. unwind at a yoga or meditation retreat.

The Catskills region centers around the state-owned and protected Catskill Park, an unspoiled 700,000-acre wilderness and recreation area.

With around 2,000 miles of hiking trails in the Catskills region , the area offers outdoor enthusiasts plenty of variety. The region boasts a wide variety of terrain and some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Northeast, from verdant valleys and gurgling creeks to soaring mountain peaks and thrilling waterfalls.

The Great Northern Catskills boasts the Catskills' highest peaks and legendary hiking trails. The most famous natural sight in the Great Northern Catskills region is the 260-foot Kaaterskill Falls , painted by the Hudson River School's founding father Thomas Cole. You can choose a gentle half-mile walk to a viewpoint or a challenging hike (300 feet in elevation) down a steep flight of steps.

Tips : Please note that the hike down the steps to Kaaterskill Falls can be dangerous when slippery. It is also dangerous to venture off the path. Please note: Fatalities have occurred at Kaaterskill Falls . Wear sturdy shoes and stay on the trails. Do not wear flip-flops or sandals. Keep at least six feet of distance from cliff edges.

Parking at Kaaterskill Falls : This is a very popular hike that attracts many visitors; the parking lots (on Laurel House Road and Scutt Road) fill up early on weekends and in the high season.

Another landscape scene painted by the Hudson River School artists is found at the North-South Lake Campground. An easy half-mile hike leads to the Artist's Rock , a cliffside overlook that affords sweeping views of the Hudson Valley. This hike has little elevation gain and is not very challenging, except for a few granite rock scrambles.

From Artist's Rock, you can continue for about one more mile on the Escarpment Trail until reaching the Sunset Rock overlook, where the Hudson River School artists were inspired by the Hudson Valley views. The trail is generally easy, but there are narrow sections that run alongside cliffs with sheer drops, which can feel scary if you have a fear of heights.

A hike to the Kaaterskill Clove Lookout (on the list of Hudson River School painting sites) begins in Palenville. This moderate 1.8-mile round-trip hike leads to a lookout onto Kaaterskill Clove, which was painted by Thomas Cole and other Hudson River School artists Asher B. Durand and Sanford Robinson Gifford.

Only serious hikers will want to attempt the most challenging hike in the Great Northern Catskills, which has a name that serves as a warning. Devil's Path is the most strenuous and dangerous hiking trail in the Eastern United States.

Other legendary hikes in the Catskills include the trail to the Slide Mountain summit , the Catskills' highest peak, and the Giant Ledge trail in Shandaken's Slide Mountain Wilderness. This area is about a 20-minute drive from Big Indian, which has affordable accommodations.

Easy Hikes: Easy, breezy hikes can be found at Frick Pond in Willowemoc Wild Forest, the Catskill Scenic Trail in the Upper Catskills, the 2.3-mile Huckleberry Multi-Use Trail near Tannersville, and the Tanbark Trail in Phoenicia.

For a gentle walk, head to the RamsHorn-Livingston Audubon Sanctuary, a nature preserve of tidal marshland. You can hike the trails or glide through the creek by boat. The chance to spot Great Blue Herons or even Bald Eagles makes it a great place for bird-watching.

You can learn about the natural environment of the Catskills region's Upper Delaware Valley at the Outside Institute in Livingston Manor. This nature center offers nature walks, guided foraging excursions, and forest meditation walks.

For generations of New York families, the Catskills are synonymous with carefree summer vacations. By the 1940s, the Catskills also became well known for the "Borscht Belt" resorts that attracted famous Jewish comedians and entertainers.

During the Catskills heyday, legendary hotels like The Concord, Grossinger's, and the Nevele Grande Resort treated middle- and upper-middle-class Jewish families to fabulous all-inclusive accommodations, complete with meals, entertainment, and recreational activities.

The movie Dirty Dancing and episodes 3, 4, and 5 of Season Two in the Netflix series The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel capture the vibrant Catskills summer vacation scene that thrived in the 1950s and 1960s.

Today, the Catskills resort life still delights visitors at the Hanah Mountain Resort & Country Club . Inspired by the movie Dirty Dancing , the hotel's owner purchased the resort in 1989 and renovated the property over the next decade. You'll find fabulous amenities: a restaurant, indoor pool, outdoor hot tub, sauna, game room, gym, hiking trails, and an 18-hole championship golf course.

Many other resorts in the Catskills have continued the tradition of all-inclusive accommodations with half-board or full-board meal options.

The Delaware River in the Catskills is a premier destination for fly-fishing in the Northeast. The world-class trout fishing of the Catskills draws visitors from New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and other states in the region, as well as fly-fishing enthusiasts from abroad.

The main fly-fishing destinations in the Catskills include Roscoe, Livingston Manor, and Deposit . Some areas of the Delaware River (and on other rivers in the Catskills) only allow catch-and-release fishing.

The community of Roscoe , which bills itself as "Trout Town USA," is proud of its fly-fishing heritage. This small historic town has a handful of restaurants and cafés, as well as several shops that sell fly-fishing gear.

The birthplace of American fly-fishing, Livingston Manor is home to a famous fly shop, Dette Flies , which was established in 1928, as well as the Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum on Route 17. Livingston Manor is also a foodie destination in its own right, with many gourmet food stores, cafés, and local eateries.

You will find a wide range of good restaurants and hotel accommodations in Roscoe and especially in Livingston Manor.

There are also opportunities for fly-fishing on other streams that wind through the Catskills: the Beaverkill River, Neversink River, Willowemoc Creek, and Esopus Creek.

The Catskills region is prized for its magnificent pastoral landscapes, which captivated the Hudson River School artists. This picture-perfect countryside is dotted with rural villages and blanketed with a patchwork of small farms.

Since 1885, New York State has protected over 700,000 acres of land, the Catskill Park . This "Forever Wild" land is the heart of the Catskills region.

One of the most farmers' markets in the Catskills, the Callicoon Farmers' Market is held outdoors every Sunday year-round from 11 am until 2 pm. You can buy fresh produce, flowers, artisanal products, baked goods, and handcrafted items sold by local producers. After shopping at the market, enjoy a picnic at the nearby meadow overlooking Callicoon Creek.

From late spring through early fall, outdoor farmers' markets are held in Deposit, Livingston Manor, Roscoe, Lexington, Franklin, Hobart, Hancock, Delhi, Pakatakan, and Windham.

The Delhi Farmers' Market (every Wednesday from June through September) presents a diverse array of local products including fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, meat, mushrooms, and flowers, as well as handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and wooden craft items.

The Hobart Farmers' Market (every Friday afternoon from June through September) gives local vendors a chance to sell their seasonal fruits and vegetables. This farmers' market also includes a flea market, music, games, and street food.

Individual farmstands also offer a chance to purchase items directly from local producers. Farmstands are found at Burnett Farms, which sells sustainably produced fruits, berries, and vegetables, and at East Durham Farms, Foxtail Community Farm in Greenville, RSK Farm, and Story Farms in Catskill.

Country Stores: Are you planning a picnic? Pick up gourmet sandwiches and snacks at country stores such as the Delaware Pantry in Delhi, the Main Street Farm grocer in Livingston Manor, the Catskill Mountain Country Store in Windham, the Bear & Fox Provisions on the Main Street in Tannersville, Marty's Mercantile in West Shokan, and Circle W Market in Palenville.

The Catskill Mountains shelter an expanse of wide-open plains and fertile valleys, ideal for farming. Taking advantage of the local bounty, farm-to-table restaurants are a trend in the Catskills these days. The cuisine makes use of regional ingredients sourced from local farms and sometimes from the surrounding fields.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Beaverkill Valley Inn in Livingston Manor is renowned for its farm-to-table restaurant. The hotel has an organic vegetable garden that supplies ingredients for its restaurant. The chef also uses fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, and meat from local farms; all the breads and pastries are made from scratch.

For Italian farm-to-table cuisine, try Northern Farmhouse Pasta in Roscoe. This family-owned restaurant specializes in handmade pasta, fresh local trout, and Italian dishes prepared from farm-sourced ingredients. The menu changes seasonally and includes classic dishes like Amalfi Coast Fish Stew and Chicken Parmigiana.

Other farm-to-table restaurants include the James Beard award-winning restaurant at The DeBruce in Livingston Manor; Peekamoose in Big Indian; Silvia , an organic restaurant in Woodstock; and the restaurant at Union + Post in Windham . These restaurants serve seasonal cuisine prepared from local ingredients.

Several spa resorts have taken advantage of the Catskills' peaceful scenery. Staying at one of these luxurious resorts allows you to relax in a pampering environment. It's the ultimate way to enjoy nature without "roughin' it" at a campsite.

The Emerson Resort & Spa in Mount Tremper offers soothing contemporary-style accommodations and pampering wellness treatments. You can get a relaxation massage, a facial, a body scrub, or a mud wrap. The resort also has spiritual rejuvenation programs such as "chakra renewal" and crystal reiki therapy.

The YO1 Longevity & Health Resort is a wellness retreat with a full-service spa, set beside a lake and surrounded by lush rolling hills. At the spa, you may take yoga classes and participate in meditation sessions. Spa services also include naturopathic and Ayurvedic therapies, as well as acupuncture and Reiki healing therapy.

Discover the pastoral lifestyle of the Catskills by spending some time at a working farm. Weathered Hill Farms in South Kortright lets you pitch a tent on their property (or you can stay at a renovated one-room schoolhouse down the road). You can even help with the farm chores for an authentic experience.

If you are traveling with the family, you can book a cabin at Stonycreek Farmstead 's beautiful property. The rustic tent cabins (that sleep six people) include running water and a wood-burning stove. There are also community pizza nights; kids' art, cooking, and other workshops; and a farmstand that sells organic farm products and pasture-raised hens' eggs.

The Catskill Mountains include 35 high peaks soaring up to 4,180 feet in elevation. Wooded rolling hills, forested mountains, granite overlooks, narrow valleys, and winding streams make for inspiring scenery.

If you are in excellent physical fitness and are up for the challenge, you can hike to the iconic summits of the Catskills. The hiking trails up to the summits of Indian Head Mountain , the legendary Slide Mountain , and Hunter Mountain (the Hunter Mountain Fire Tower ) lead to splendid views of the Catskill Mountains.

Hiking to Windham High Peak affords panoramas of both the Catskills and the Hudson Valley.

It's possible to admire the scenery without hiking. The Five State Lookout in East Windham commands panoramic views of the mountain ranges in five states: the White Mountains of New Hampshire, the Green Mountains of Vermont, the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts, the Helderberg Mountains of New York, and the Connecticut Valley.

You can take a short, easy walk to reach a spectacular vista point at the Kaaterskill Falls viewing platform . It's about a half-mile on a dirt path through the forest to reach the viewing platform.

At Mount Utsayantha near the village of Stamford, you can hike or drive one mile to the summit (a 680-foot elevation gain). It's a moderately difficult hike or a very short drive.

Sleep beneath starry skies in the fresh mountain air, and wake up to the golden glow of sunlight on the horizon. Camping in the Catskills brings you closer to nature, whether the campsite is next to a babbling brook or a serene lake. It's a chance to unwind in the unspoiled natural environment.

The largest and most popular campground in the region, North-South Lake Campground in Haines Falls is home to famous hiking trails, such as the Escarpment Trail. The facilities include seven camping areas with over 200 tent sites, water access, hot showers, and flush toilets. Other features are the two lakes, two beaches, a picnic pavilion, boat rentals, a fishing platform, volleyball courts, a playground, and two picnic areas with tables and charcoal grills.

Another top place to visit, Devil's Tombstone Campground is one of the oldest campgrounds in the Catskill Forest Preserve. The campground is found in a secluded clove, protected by some of the Catskills' highest peaks. Devil's Tombstone Campground has 22 primitive campsites, a playground, a picnic area, firepits, water access, and hiking trails.

For those seeking an outdoorsy overnight experience without roughing it, glamping sites provide a good alternative. Purling Waters at Tumblin' Falls in Purling is a well-outfitted glamping site nestled in a densely wooded glen near Shinglekill Creek.

The Old Game Farm in Catskill offers luxurious glamping sites with queen beds, private grills, and Adirondack chairs. The Willowemoc Wild Forest Yurt campground resort in Livingston Manor delivers a rustic-chic glamping experience.

Quaint country towns dot the wooded hillsides and valleys of the Catskills region. There are tiny villages with two-block main streets and faded half-abandoned towns that experienced their heyday decades ago. At the same time, many communities have been revived during the recent renaissance in tourism.

The pint-sized town of Phoenicia in the central Catskills has a lot to offer visitors on its inviting main street, lined with several restaurants and small locally owned shops. At the heart of the Catskills, the town enjoys a peaceful setting by the Esopus River and is a good place for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and fly fishing. The Phoenicia Diner is famous for its classic "diner" menu prepared from seasonal ingredients.

Detour-worthy towns in the Western Catskills include Callicoon , an atmospheric 19th-century town with many restaurants, cafés, and a year-round farmers market; and trendy Livingston Manor , known for its gourmet food scene and famous fly shop.

In the Great Northern Catskills, Tannersville is larger than most Catskills towns, with three blocks of shops, cafés, and restaurants on its Main Street. The Bear & Fox Provisions gourmet grocer is a good place to pick up sandwiches before or after a hike.

In an idyllic setting a bit farther out of the way in the Upper Catskills, the village of Fleischmanns has a small "downtown" area with a country store and a surprisingly authentic Moroccan café, Bebert's Condiments Cafe . There's also a well-known barbecue restaurant & pizzeria, Goatie Whites , near the highway.

You'll love the village of Woodstock for its historic New England charm and more recent hippie heritage. Full of tourist attractions , this adorable town has many artisan craft stores and locally-owned boutiques, as well as a wide selection of excellent restaurants. One of the best restaurants, Cucina, serves authentic Italian dishes prepared from high-quality ingredients.

The town of Catskill on the Hudson River is known for its art scene and eclectic small-town vibe. The main street features cafés, a variety of casual restaurants, locally-owned shops, and art galleries. Be sure to visit the Thomas Cole National Historic Site.

Nothing compares to the beauty of a sunny autumn day in the Catskills. The trick is to get the timing right. The leaves usually begin changing color in late September or early October, and fall foliage typically peaks around mid-October.

Take a leaf-peeping excursion along the Catskills' two-lane country roads. The Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway along Route 28 showcases the beauty of the Catskills region. The route begins in Shokan and continues for 52 miles through rolling hills, along gurgling creeks, and past small country villages, concluding in the town of Andes. Highlights include the towns of Phoenicia, Fleishmanns, and Margaretville.

If you prefer sightseeing to driving, a short excursion to the Thomas Cole National Historic Site in the town of Catskill is perfect on a fall day. The founding father of the Hudson River School art movement lived here. One glimpse from his wraparound porch and you'll understand why he was inspired by the Catskill Mountains. You must purchase a ticket to see the interior of the house where Thomas Cole's paintings are displayed and to visit his art studio.

For an enjoyable autumn activity, try apple picking at one of the local farms. Several apple orchards in Accord, Stone Ridge, and Kerhonkson allow you to pick your own apples.

The gurgling clear-water streams of the Catskills are legendary for fly-fishing, and during summertime also become a destination for water sports. Popular water sports activities include rafting, tubing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

You can go boating on the Pepacton Reservoir and the Cannonsville Reservoir in Delaware County. In the town of Halcottsville, a great place for a carefree day of boating is the Susan Pleasant Pheasant Farm , which has a launch site on Lake Wawaka, and rents out canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards.

The North-South Lake Campground is another great place for boating. The campground's boating site offers rentals of rowboats, canoes, paddleboats, paddleboards, and kayaks.

Glide down powdery ski slopes in the Great Northern Catskills . This region boasts the most dramatic scenery of the region, along with the steepest hills for downhill skiing.

Alpine skiers can choose from two major ski resorts with summits above 3,000 feet in elevation. Windham Mountain has 12 lifts, 285 acres of ski terrain, and six terrain parks. Hunter Mountain offers 320 acres of ski terrain accessed by 13 lifts.

There are also several places to go cross-country skiing, including the Cross Country Skiing Center at Windham Country Club, Mountain Trails Cross Country Ski Center in Tannersville, and the state-owned Catskill Forest Preserve in Mount Tremper.

Read More: Best Ski Resorts near New York City

Authentic old-time diners are scattered throughout the Catskills. Stop at one of these cozy dining establishments, for a taste of the local food and culture.

Catskills diners are renowned for their classic all-American cooking. The menus feature hearty dishes such as pancakes, scrambled eggs, omelets, hamburgers, fish and chips, and grilled cheese sandwiches.

Selena's Diner in Tannersville has an inviting dining room with an old-school feel. The menu includes typical diner fare such as pancakes, waffles, omelets, sandwiches, burgers, and salads. This is a great place to refuel after an invigorating hike in the region. The trail to Kaaterskill Falls and other popular hikes are nearby.

One of the best diners in the Catskills, the Phoenicia Diner (5681 Route 28) serves breakfast and lunch from 8 am until 6 pm. The Phoenicia Diner stands out because of its focus on high-quality seasonal ingredients. Favorite menu items include homemade granola, French toast with local maple syrup, smoked trout or lox on bagels, pan-fried local trout, and grass-fed beef burgers.

In the town of Leeds at the entrance to the Great Northern Catskills, Gracie's Luncheonette serves typical old-fashioned diner comfort food. What makes it special is the focus on preparing recipes from scratch, including house-made bread, hamburger buns, hotdogs, pickles, and pies.

Enjoy a round of golf with spectacular mountain views and a good dose of history. The Colonial Country Club in Tannersville overlooks the peaks of the Great Northern Catskills. Dating to the early 1920s, this nine-hole USGA-Regulation golf course has a restaurant, pro shop, driving range, and equipment rentals.

The Windham Country Club in Windham was built in 1928 and has been recently renovated. This 18-hole public golf course offers scenic fairways with views of the Catskill Mountains. The golf course has a clubhouse, driving range, and restaurant.

The Hanah Country Club in Margaretville boasts a challenging 18-hole championship golf course with gorgeous mountain views. The original nine-hole golf course dates to 1949 but was enlarged in 1989.

Incidentally, Koji Nagasaka, the owner of Hanah Mountain Resort & Country Club, is a huge fan of the movie Dirty Dancing and has attempted to create the Catskills resort life of the 1950s and 1960s.

The Catskills region naturally attracts visitors in search of peace, quiet, and relaxation. Several retreat centers in the Catskills take advantage of the bliss-inducing pastoral setting and breathtaking mountain views.

On a lovely 93-acre property in Margaretville, the Blue Deer Center offers healing retreats with a focus on spirituality and Indigenous traditions. The Mahayana Buddhist Temple in South Cairo is open to the public for mindfulness meditation classes and retreats.

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Explore the Catskills

Everything you need to find your way through the beautiful catskill mountains., hiking and camping, outdoor recreation, restaurants and lodging, kids in the catskills, events in the catskills, covid-19 information, back to top.

THE 10 BEST Catskill Region Mountains

Mountains in catskill region.

• Nature & Wildlife Areas
• Hiking Trails
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Overlook Mountain

2. Shawangunk Mountains

3. Mountain Top Arboretum

4. Slide Mountain

5. Walnut Mountain Park

6. Catskill Park

7. Mount Tremper

8. Peekamoose Mountain

9. Mountain View Dairy

10. catskill escarpment loop.

11. Mount Utsayantha

12. Wittenberg Mountain

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The Catskills

The diverse region of the Catskills in southern New York is a short drive from the NYC/NJ/CT metro area, Northeastern Pennsylvania, the Capital Region of NY, and western Massachusetts and Connecticut.

Click on the map to journey through the four distinct sub regions of the Catskills and explore all that awaits you.

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Catskill Park

The Catskill Park is over 700,000 acres of wilderness located within the Catskill Mountains of New York State. The Park has been preserved for visitors to discover, and explore, the great outdoors while enjoying year-round activities such as, camping under the stars, hiking to the highest peaks, fly-fishing pristine waters, ski retreats, and unique wildlife viewing.

Located just a short drive from several major cities in the Northeast including New York City, Boston, Albany, and Philadelphia, the Catskill Park is a great place to escape the mundane of everyday city life to explore, and experience, something extraordinary.

What is the Catskill Park?

The Catskill Park (also known as the Catskill Forest Preserve) was established in 1885 and encompasses 286,000 acres of state land within the park. The acreage within the preserve includes forest, meadows, wetlands, and lakes. It also spans four counties: Greene, Ulster, Sullivan, and Delaware.

Fire towers in the Catskill Park were built in the 1800s to keep an eye on firestorms, but today just five remain throughout the park. They have been restored so visitors can enjoy the fantastic views from the top of five mountains: Overlook, Hunter, Red Hill, Balsam Lake, and Tremper.

What kind of park is the Catskill Park?

The Catskill Park is a New York State Park, not a National Park. What’s the difference? Well for starters, there’s no fee or gate to pass through when you enter the Catskill Park, so visitors can come and go as they please.

The Catskill Park is also one of only two areas in New York State designated as “Forever Wild” – meaning the land is protected under Article XIV of the New York State Constitution. The article dictates the land “…shall be forever kept as wild forest lands. They shall not be leased, sold or exchanged, or be taken by any corporation, public or private, nor shall the timber thereon be sold, removed or destroyed.” (Source: Department of Environmental Conservation)

Fun Fact: A small portion of the land in the park is owned by New York City to protect the reservoirs that provide the city with water.

What animals live in the Catskills?

The Catskill Park is home to a variety of animal species. Some animals are more common than others and can be spotted on the mountains and in forested areas. The most commonly seen wildlife in the Catskills include:

• Black Bears – Black bears generally try to stay away from humans, but it’s important to be vigilant when camping and hiking in the Catskills and make sure that your food and trash is secure.
• Bobcats – These carnivorous cats are great at hiding, but their tracks are pretty distinct when you come across them. They are most active during dawn and dusk, so watch out for them while hiking early in the morning or into the night.
• Deer – White-tail deer are the most abundant large mammal found in the Catskill Park. They are common prey for coyotes, bobcats, and cougars.
• Cougars – Also known as mountain lions, it is believed by some that cougars no longer exist in the Catskills, while others claim to have seen them recently. They were nearly hunted to extinction in the 1800s.
• Snakes – The Catskills are home to two very poisonous snakes, the Timber Rattlesnake and the Copperhead. Look out for brown, yellow, and tan movement across the ground as you are walking and avoid stepping on them.
• Coyotes – Coyotes are abundant throughout the mountains and valleys of the Catskills. Listen for them as they howl throughout the night.
• Birds – As with most places across New York State, the Catskills host 100s of bird species throughout the year, including a variety of birds of prey. The Catskill Park is a great place for birdwatchers.
• Fishers – Fishers are related to weasels and otters and are typically not easy to see because they are nocturnal animals.
• Porcupines – The average porcupine has about 30,000 sharp quills on its body. These herbivores are typically nocturnal but can sometimes be seen sitting in trees during the day.

Always be sure to exercise caution around wild animals, and refrain from removing plants as many are endangered or threatened, and also supply food and nutrients to some of the above-mentioned animals.

Where can I “check in” and find out more?

Planning a trip to the Catskill Park? Be sure to check out  Catskills lodging ,  local restaurants , and upcoming events in the Catskills to round out your getaway.

While the Catskill Park doesn’t have gates or tolls granting you access to the region, you can stop at the  Catskill Interpretive Center   (located at 5096 NY-28, Mount Tremper, NY) for hiking trail information, maps, the latest news on wildlife sightings, and additional local event information.

What temperatures should I plan for in the Catskills?

The temperature in the Catskills will depend entirely on what time of year you plan to visit, what elevation you are at, and what specific town you are visiting. Below are the average temperatures for the Catskills Region, highs & lows, by month.

• January: High – 25 degrees, Low – 9 degrees
• February: High – 28 degrees, Low – 10 degrees
• March: High – 36 degrees, Low – 18 degrees
• April: High – 48 degrees, Low – 29 degrees
• May: High – 60 degrees, Low – 40 degrees
• June: High – 67 degrees, Low – 48 degrees
• July: High – 71 degrees, Low – 53 degrees
• August: High – 70 degrees, Low – 52 degrees
• September: High – 63 degrees, Low – 45 degrees
• October: High – 53 degrees, Low – 35 degrees
• November: High – 41 degrees, Low – 26 degrees
• December: High – 29 degrees, Low – 15 degrees

Note: Temperatures at the tops of mountains will almost always be colder than at the base, so plan accordingly if you plan on doing any hiking. It is important to always check the weather forecast before your upcoming visit, whether you plan on being outdoors or not, so that you are fully prepared in case of rain, extreme heat or cold, or dangerous travel conditions.

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Travel Guide To Catskill Mountains: Upstate New York

Just 120 miles from Manhattan are the Catskill Mountains, where those in the know, from A-listers to beatniks, go to fish, meditate and strum guitars in surprisingly chic surroundings. The monasteries (two Tibetan and one Zen) have been here for generations, but Route 28 is fast becoming a 'corridor' that runs through New Age spas (thalassotherapy, steam jets, aromatherapy, four-handed massages), gourmet food outlets, fresh farm-produce stands, wine shops where staff know the difference between a Pétrus and a Pomerol, art galleries, and more and more freshly painted weekend homes.

Where to stay in Catskill Mountains: Upstate New York

EMERSON RESORT & SPA

5340 Route 28, Mount Tremper (00 1 877 688 2828; www.emersonplace.com ). A hotel split in two parts; The Inn has spacious suites, while The Lodge has rooms of different sizes and layouts suitable for families or groups. The spa has a holistic angle and is inspired by Ayurvedic rituals. The restaurant, The Phoenix, features in the Where to Eat section. £££

KATE'S LAZY MEADOW MOTEL

5191 Route 28, Mount Tremper (00 1 845 688 7020; www.lazymeadow.com ). An eccentric little 'resort' owned by Kate Pierson, beehived and bonny lead singer of rock band The B52; this is so Woodstock. For Pierson, it's just the spot to park her eclectic, slightly dotty but stylish collection of mid-century junk. Cabin number 1 features a Swiss Army knife as a key fob, a classic Eames chair and ottoman, a mind-boggling light that hangs from the ceiling like a giant chain, and a tear-shaped coffee table that opens into a cocktail bar. There are new steel kitchen appliances, and bathrooms are stocked with shampoos and soaps swiped from hotels. It works. £

PHOENICIA VILLAGE MOTEL & COTTAGES

5987 Route 28, Phoenicia Village (00 1 845 688 7772; www.phoeniciavillage.com ). Built in the 1940s and 50s, Phoenicia Village Motel & Cottages is a good budget option, with charm and character. The motel's rooms and cottages are surrounded by trees, and it is located a few minutes' walk from Main Street Phoenicia. £

THE COPPERHOOD INN & SPA

Shandaken (00 1 845 688 2460; www.copperhood.com ). An upmarket option, the Copperhood bedrooms are traditionally furnished in a slightly chintzy way, and the food is light and healthy. All meals, spa and fitness programmes are included in the price of your room. ££££

THE ROXBURY

2258 Route 41, Roxbury (00 1 607 326 7200; www.theroxburymotel.com ). The Roxbury styles itself as a 'boutique motel' and it's furnished with one-off treats and stylish IKEA lamps. The themed rooms are inspired by TV programmes, films and cartoons, as is the colourful cocktail lounge. The small spa has just one treatment room, but if you book one of the kitchenettes or suites you could have the treatments in your own room. £

THE WEYSIDE INN & COTTAGES

91 Firehouse Road, Big Indian (00 1 845 254 5484; www.theweyside.com ). The perfect accommodation if you want to explore the surrounding nature by fishing, skiing, hunting or swimming. The Weyside has a ban on telephones and TVs, making it a blissful retreat for BlackBerry addicts. £

THE WILD ROSE INN

66 Rock City Road, Woodstock (00 1 845 679 8783; www.bbonline.com/ny/wildrose). A Victorian-style bed and breakfast inn in Woodstock, the five rooms at Wild Rose have a quite chintzy decor. The whirlpool tubs, gourmet breakfast and complimentary brandy are extra treats. ££

VILLAGE GREEN B&B

12 Tinker Street, Woodstock (00 1 845 679 0313; www.villagegreenbb.com ). Overlooking Woodstock's town square, Village Green has great communication connections and is ideal if you want to stay close to civilisation. Still, you're just a 30-minute walk from the start of the Catskill Mountain hiking trains. The rooms are old-fashioned, and you'll have to go to the common room to watch TV, but it is a good budget option. £

WOODSTOCK INN ON THE MILLSTREAM

48 Tannery Book Road, Woodstock (00 1 845 679 8211; www.woodstock-inn-ny.com ). A modern inn, the Woodstock Inn is located feet from the free-flowing Millstream. The 18 bedrooms are comfortable with a more modern (read less chintzy) decor than other budget options in the area. The nine standard rooms have access to the maple-shaded porch; the others are studios of different sizes and specs. £

Where to eat out in Catskill Mountains: Upstate New York

LA DUCHESSE ANNE

1564 Wittenberg Road, Mount Tremper (00 1 845 688 5260; www.laduchesseanne.com ). Fine French cuisine.

NEW WORLD HOME COOKING COMPANY

1411 Route 212, Saugerties (00 1 845 246 0900; www.ricorlando.com ). Original cuisine with hot pepper and a fusion touch.

PEEKAMOOSE RESTAURANT & TAP ROOM

8373 Route 28, Big Indian (00 1845 254 6500; www.peekamooserestaurant.com ). Modern American bistro, closed Tues and Wed.

SWEET SUE'S RESTAURANT

49 Main Street, Phoenicia (00 1 845 688 7852). Weekend brunch at this diner is a must.

THE BEAR CAFE

295 Tinker Street, Bearsville, Woodstock (00 1 845 679 5555; www.bearcafe.com ). Still top table. Dinner for two will cost under $100, without wine.

THE PHOENIX

Emerson Resort & Spa, 5340 Route 28, Mount Tremper (00 1 877 688 2828; www.emersonplace.com ). Local ingredients with an Asian flavour. Emerson Resort & Spa features in the Where to Stay section.

THE RED ONION

1654 Route 212, Woodstock (00 1 845 679 1223; www.redonionrestaurant.com ). The Bear's rival, with an eclectic American menu. Closed Wed.

What to see in Catskill Mountains: Upstate New York

GALLERIES AND MUSEUMS

BETHEL WOODS CENTER FOR THE ARTS

200 Hurd Road, Bethel (00 1 866 781 2922; www.bethelwoodscenter.org ). On the site of the Woodstock festival, the new Bethel Woods Center for the Arts is a music venue and multi-media museum that explores the legacy of the 1960s.

GALERIE BMG

12 Tannery Brook Road, Woodstock (00 1 845 679 0027 www.galeriebmg.com ). Best for photography in the area.

COLONY CAFE

22 Rock City Road, Woodstock (00 1 845 679 5342; www.colonycafe.com ). For a glimpse of the Woodstock Nation, try the Colony Café, with bands most nights.

LEVON'S MIDNIGHT RAMBLE

160 Plochmann Lane, Woodstock (00 1 845 679 2744; www.levonhelm.com ). For rock 'n' roll class there is Levon's Midnight Ramble, where one of The Band (who gave the world electrified Bob Dylan) holds court in his barn.

Amy Abrahams

Rick Jordan , CN Traveller

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

Olivia Morelli

MONASTERIES

KARMA TRIYANA DHARMACHAKRA

335 Meads Mountain Road, Woodstock (00 1 845 679 5906; www.kagyu.org ). Tibetan-Buddhist monastery, the Dalai Lama's Western HQ.

ZEN MOUNTAIN MONASTERY

Plank Road, Mount Tremper (00 1 845 688 2228; www.mro.org ). Weekend retreats and sessions are led by Robert Thurman - Uma's dad.

Things to do in Catskill Mountains: Upstate New York

HIKE, FISH, HUNT

You can hike from one end of the mountains to the other without leaving the woods. Buy a Sportsman's Map by Outdoor Publications, which show fishing, hunting and hiking trails in the area, or contact the State Park Rangers. Watch for black bears.

TUBING THE ESOPUS

The local ritual of running the rapids from Phoenicia on old truck-tyre inner tubes has become hugely popular and is side-splitting fun.

WINTER SPORTS

Record snowfall during the winter of 2007 has put new life into the Catskill slopes, which until the new Belleayre takes shape are fairly basic. Lots of cross-country skiing.

Where to shop in Catskill Mountains: Upstate New York

BREAD ALONE CAFE AND BAKERY

Route 28, Boiceville (00 1 845 657 3328; www.breadalone.com ). A café and bakery, where you can pick up delicious bread and other treats.

CHOCOLATE CHEERS

875 Route 28, Kingston (00 1 845 338 3368; www.chocolatecheers.com ). Handmade chocolates, from truffles to coins and seasonal treats.

HANSEN CAVIAR

881 Route 28, Kingston (00 1 845 331 5622; www.hansencaviar.com ). A gourmet shop for fans of caviar, smoked fish and foie gras.

When to go to Catskill Mountains: Upstate New York

In autumn the days are warm, the nights cool and the countryside fiery with colour, with none of the humidity of the city. Temperatures drop sharply in October. September is the best month.

How to get to Catskill Mountains: Upstate New York

American Airlines (020 7365 0777; www.americanairlines.co.uk ), British Airways (0844 493 0787; www.ba.com ) and Virgin Atlantic ( www.virgin-atlantic.com ) fly from London to New York City.

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Catskills Travel Guide: Everything to Know for Planning Your Trip

Written by Becca

Updated on March 11th, 2024

This Catskills itinerary of beautiful places has the best outdoor activities for your upstate New York vacation, and unique ideas for weekend road trip getaways.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Posted in New York

Table of contents

• Best time of year to visit the Catskills
• What’s the difference between the Catskills and the Hudson Valley?
• Where to stay in the Catskills
• The best towns to visit in the Catskills
• Did we recommend enough cool things to do in the Catskills?

Are you planning a Catskills weekend getaway, or even a longer trip?

This beautiful region of New York State, located between 1.5 to 2.5 hours from New York City (depending on how far north you go) is the perfect escape from the city or suburbs that’ll get you culture, history, nature and relaxation.

There are definitely a few top things to do in this region of Upstate New York, ranging from hiking in summer to skiing in winter. During the warmer months of the year (mid-spring to late fall), you’ll find so many outdoor activities in the Catskills, and for rainy days, unique things to do as well!an

With your Catskills itinerary, whether you’re planning a trip for a weekend getaway, or a day trip from NYC , or from nearby Westchester or New Jersey, I’m going to show you my favorite Catskills towns and my ideas for the best experiences.

Read on to find my recommendations of the most beautiful places in the Catskills and some off-the-beaten path finds, in my guide to the Catskills for a visit at any time of year.

Best time of year to visit the Catskills

In planning your Catskills trip, think about which time of year you’re planning to visit. Are you going in the early spring, and are you prepared for melting snow creating muddy trails? Are you going in fall, and are you keeping in mind that the days will be shorter, with sunsets closer to 6 pm?

The best time to visit the Catskills is, luckily, all year round! Things to do all year round in the Catskills are visit an array of famed dining spots and craft breweries, along with nature walks, hanging out at picturesque hotel properties and spending winter nights cozying up near the fireplace in a lodge.

My favorite times to visit the Catskills are undoubtedly spring, summer and fall (it’s not that I don’t like winter, it’s just that I get numb toes really fast when I’m outside). I absolutely love a fall foliage trip in autumn, and I like to go hiking in the spring before it’s too hot. During summer, I like a good nature walk and a stroll around a cute town, and eating or spending time at a cool brewery.

I think that for any traveler, a vacation in this region provides endless opportunities to enjoy whichever activity you choose.

What’s the difference between the Catskills and the Hudson Valley?

You may have also heard about the Hudson Valley, another region upstate.

Many people group these two regions together, but is that an appropriate thing to do? The fact is, many parts of the Catskills are near the Hudson Valley, and vice versa. The difference is that, well, the Catskills are a mountain range mostly in Greene and Ulster Counties of New York State, and the Hudson Valley occupies the two banks of the Hudson River, so this is Putnam, Orange, Dutchess, Columbia _and_ Greene counties.

By some definitions, the Hudson Valley even includes the Albany region, making Albany and Rensselaer regions part of the Hudson Valley region.

The Catskills is an incredibly large area of wilderness with towns and some larger city hubs scattered throughout. My most memorable Catskills experiences have been quiet hikes in Livingston Manor, my summer camp in Hancock, trying out the Phoenicia Diner, visiting the original location of my great-grandfather’s store in Hunter and visiting a Buddhist monastery in Cairo.

Where to stay in the Catskills

There is absolutely no shortage of places to stay in the Catskills. The list that follows will range from budget stays to some luxury-style stays for couples and groups.

As a note to first-timers (and second and third-timers, too, because the more I go to the Catskills, the more I realize I don’t know where I am ), the Catskills is a BIG REGION. With staying in Hunter, for example, you’re probably not going to get out to Livingston Manor, and vice versa. I recommend picking a region (Northern, Southern, Eastern or Western Catskills) and really going deep into that area, checking out all the towns, hikes, lakes, breweries and museums or what have you!

• Livingston Manor (Western Catskills) Antrim Streamside
• Hunter (Northern Catskills) Scribner’s Catskill Lodge
• Big Indian (Central Catskills) Urban Cowboy Lodge
• Woodstock (Eastern Catskills) Hotel Dylan
• Cairo (Northern Catskills) Joy Cottage

Best for couples and friends: Antrim Streamside in Livingston Manor

If you’re going to be traveling in the Western Catskills during your trip, check out our guide to Livingston Manor , which is closer to the PA border on the other end of the Catskills region. That’s where we stayed at Antrim Streamside , a lovely upscale cabin hotel on a private property full of natural charm.

We liked the fact that every cabin has a kitchenette, a newly-remodeled bathroom, luxurious beds and all the amenities of the entire property, like Adirondack chairs next to the river, a cool suspension bridge, hiking trails and an indoor social room with games (in case you have a rainy day during the trip).

Overall, it was a good place to be staying in a hotel with a baby , so we appreciated that a lot.

Best for the views: Scribner’s Catskill Lodge

Located in Hunter, which some would call the Northern Catskills, Scribner’s Catskill Lodgeis a bright and airy resort with gorgeous mountain views. Enjoy a pool and outdoor dining on the patio in summer, and fireplaces or outdoor fire experiences in winter.

Oh, and in fall, enjoy vistas of the foliage, right from your room… anyway, Scribner’s is the #1 best accommodation near Hunter, NY, for a reason, and we recommend checking it out.

Best for a romantic getaway: Urban Cowboy Lodge

I found about this hotel from my friend who went to it for a romantic weekend with her partner. The lodge is located in Big Indian in the Central Catskills, so this is a great jumping-off point for tons of things you’d want to do during your trip.

The Urban Cowboy Lodge is a total aesthetic, from the bar flanked by tree trunks to the unique decor in the rooms and suites (footed bathtubs next to the window, or a balcony from which you can see the mountains).

Book here .

Best for activities: Hotel Dylan

Hotel Dylan has a fun and clean modern vibe, and is based near Woodstock in the Eastern Catskills. The laid-back property was created for travelers to relax and recharge, and there’s lots to do just at the hotel itself, from hammocking, hanging by fire pits, playing ping pong and enjoying the hotel grounds.

Fun for any time of year, Hotel Dylan also has a great location with a short drive to points in the Hudson Valley as well as the rest of the Catskills.

Best private Airbnb for groups: Joy Cottage zen-style getaway cabin

One of our first times up in the Catskills, we stayed in the Joy Cottage at the Mahayana Retreat . Staying here gave us a location of being close to the upper Hudson Valley and Catskills towns of Catskill and Hudson , which are more or less across the Hudson River from each other.

We woke up next to a lake in the middle of the forest, yet we weren’t camping. The accommodation itself is a modern six-bedroom house that’s great for couples, families and groups of friends.

This zen-style Japanese-inspired vacation rental house is located on the grounds of the Mahayana Temple Upstate Retreat, so after you’re done having your coffee on the porch in the morning, you can explore peaceful Buddhist temples and a seven-tiered pagoda next to the pond. It’s great for photos, and for doing something unique during your trip itinerary. See the in-depth review of our stay, here .

Budget Stays in the Catskills: Where to stay for cheaper

The Catskills has really skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, from spring to fall, so you will certainly see inflated rates on weekends, holiday weekends and desirable times to travel (fall foliage). Keep an eye out for Sunday-to-Wednesday rates during the week, which will be less expensive, along with off-season like January through March (except for ski resorts).

Here are a few places to stay in the Catskills if you are on a budget. Both of these suggestions are located within easy driving distance of all the things to do, and landmarks, in our guide.

The Four Seasons Motel : This campy upstate motel outside Catskill is only a 30-minute drive from skiing in Hunter, and features free WiFi with a pool on the premises. It’s not fancy, but at a minimum of $70 as a weeknight rate, the price can’t be beat, in the area. It’s an authentic countryside motel experience.

The Twilight Lodge : This bed & breakfast is located near the Kaaterskill hike trailhead, which makes it a desirable location for spring, summer and fall. At also $70 per night at minimum, the price is incredible for the value. It’s located 25 miles from Kingston .

The best towns to visit in the Catskills

Finally: my list of the best towns to go to in the Catskill Mountains!

There have been so many times when I am at home on my couch and looking up “the best towns to visit in the Catskills,” or, “the cutest towns to visit in the Catskills.”

I’ve finally come up with a list of the ones I’ve been to, and as a disclaimer, there are so many more (and some towns like Catskill and Saugerties get duly named as “Catskills towns” as well as “Hudson Valley” towns).

Livingston Manor (Western Catskills)

If you have some time for driving and you are ready to explore the other side of the Catskills, head out to the vacation town of Livingston Manor, which is exploding in popularity since about 2019.

This small town has become quite revamped in terms of dining options, shopping and art, and if you’re into trout fishing, this is the place. There’s also two great breweries with nice views of the mountains.

Want to learn more? See our in-depth travel guide for Livingston Manor .

Phoenicia & Mt. Tremper

Phoenicia diner.

Have you seen the Phoenicia Diner on Instagram ? This famous diner along Route NY-28 is both retro and cool, revoking old memories of the Catskill glory days. It attracts everyone, from day trippers from NYC, to families, to locals to older folks. We sat in a booth by the window and got a look at the mountains. There’s also covered outdoor seating where you can have an even BETTER look at the mountains.

What should you order? Well, there’s something for everyone. We got some “breakfast all-day” meals for lunch like an egg sandwich and an omelet, and the staff was super nice about getting me gluten-free bread and replacing the potatoes with a side salad. Everything was delicious and we ate every bite. For those who want to take home a souvenir, the diner has “swag” from Phoenicia Diner sweatshirts to Phoenicia Diner baby onesies. Here’s the website .

Phoenicia Diner also has a cookbook, the Phoenicia Diner Cookbook . Aside from this trendy name brand, Phoenicia is a tiny sleepy little Catskills town, with a population of only 309. You can check out the town too, as there is a main drag with a few stores.

Catskills Visitor Center (a must-see!)

I am so glad I insisted that we take the Catskills Visitor Center a part of our most recent trip up to the Catskills! If you’re coming up Route 87 and turning off at Kingston, the visitor center will be on Route NY-28, and it’s about a 25-minute drive. It’s on the right side of the road if you’re coming from the East, near Mt. Tremper.

What is the Catskills Visitor Center? It’s a good question, because before 2020 it may not have been much to see. But, it was recently renovated and it’s now a brand new space with an information desk, interactive exhibits about the Catskills nature, land, sea life, plant life and animal life, a “listening booth,” loads of maps, a gift shop and relics to look at.

I think we spent about 45 minutes there talking to the very helpful and friendly gentleman at the desk, who recommended that we check out the easy nature walks on the property.

We took his advice, and started the Mt. Tremper Water Tower walk, which takes you just a few minutes from the visitor center itself to a tall fire tower, which you should only climb if you don’t have a fear of heights! Also note that in rain or drizzle, it can get slippery.

Overall, the new Catskills Visitor Center gets a 6 out of 5 stars from us. The bathrooms were clean, there’s an outdoor covered picnic table area, heaps of parking, and easy family-friendly (or ADA-accessible) paths that you may have trouble seeking out elsewhere. It’s a good break in a drive, and as we learned, it’s a popular meeting spot for parties who are meeting up before driving further.

Check out the very helpful Catskills Visitor Center Explore page for seasonal tips, trail info, recreational ideas, restaurant inspiration and lodging options!

Ashokan Reservoir & Ashokan Reservoir Promenade

On your way up and out to Mt. Tremper and Phoenicia, you’ll pass Ashokan Reserve ( located here ) if coming from any points east.

Would you have thought that a reservoir would be a point of interest on a Catskills vacation? Well, this one is quite beautiful, and it has got to be one of the most beautiful places in the Catskills without a doubt. At least three available walking and hiking trails let you visit this region with relaxing strolls.

Check out the website for the Ashokan Reservoir to see how you can enjoy your time visiting this natural place that sends fresh water all the way to NYC.

You can also take Route 375 south from Woodstock to get to Ashokan Reserve. Additionally, the entire Ashokan Reservoir isn’t too far from Kingston, in the Hudson Valley.

Hunter has a newly-special place in my heart because my grandfather grew up there. He was born in NYC, but due to his mother’s illness, doctors recommended that they seek fresh air upstate. Away they moved, from (I’m assuming) everything they knew, to start a life upstate in the mountains.

Hunter is most famous for Hunter Mountain, a skiing destination for city folks in New York City and the entire surrounding region. In fact, it’s probably one of the best-known skiing slope destinations in the area.

If you’re coming outside of ski season and winter, like we did, be prepared to see a sleepy town. Dan and I spent our morning in Hunter checking out the tiny Main Street, and seeking out storefronts of which my dad had photos from the 1950s. My grandfather’s name is also on a WWII memorial plaque outside the school on Main Street, so we had to go see that.

For one of the newest “attractions” in Hunter, check out Fellow Mountain Cafe right on the main “drag,” if you could even call it that! You can tell that this one was opened for city folks and visitors coming up to the Catskills. Enjoy a menu labeled with “GF” and “V” symbols for gluten-free eaters and vegetarians, and handcrafted coffee drinks.

For staying, there’s Scribner’s Catskill Lodge , a new hotel under the same ownership as Prospect , an upscale dining experience featuring local cuisine.

Kaaterskill Falls

A 15-minute drive east of Hunter will get you to the renowned Kaaterskill Falls , a very pretty waterfall of about 260 feet with a trail that has nice views. If you go by its Google ratings alone, check out how over 1000 travelers have rated it an average 4.8! Not bad.

Kaaterskill is going to be the Dutch name most resemblant of “Catskill” itself and it is the name of the most well-known set of waterfalls that grace the region. To learn more about this landmark, see the listing on the Great Northern Catskills website .

Found in Greene County, Kaaterskill Falls are really quite magnificent and require some hiking. You can take a 1.4-mile trail to see the falls themselves. Beware of slippery rocks and wear good shoes! You can see more on All Trails .

Of course you’ve heard of Woodstock, the famed name of the 1969 music festival that attracted hundreds of thousands of young people.

A fun trivia fact is that the festival itself did NOT take place in Woodstock, because they needed more space (true story!), but Woodstock gets all the glory (see “Bethel” below!).

Visit Woodstock as a stop on your Catskills weekend itinerary for a weekend trip, and spend half day to see the shops, restaurants, cafes and several bars. There’s also a good bit of shopping to do here, from Woodstock souvenirs, to art and music-themed stores.

What’s more is that the drive to Woodstock from either direction is quite pretty, as you’re in the Catskill Mountains, and if you take some back roads from Woodstock to Kingston you’ll be blessed with some cool cliffside views of the valleys and hills.

If you venture toward the Northern Catskills region, the roads become quieter and the towns are fewer and more far between. We stayed for a night in a woodsy cabin 15 minutes from Andes and got to see the town in the morning.

In comparison with other Catskills towns that may lack charm, Andes is pretty quaint and cute. The homes are an old Victorian style on Main Street, and the buildings are freshly painted and house small shops. We liked it for a morning walk.

For travelers coming to the region Monday through Wednesday, note that lots of shops and restaurants/cafes have limited hours or are closed on these days each week.

Where to eat and drink in Andes, NY

Noteworthy places to eat and drink are two of the best restaurants in the Catskills (according to The Infatuation ), Wayside Cider and Dragonfly55 .

In addition, there’s Wilson’s Bread and Magpies , Dana’s Place , Rosalino’s and the pretty Andes Hotel , an old-fashioned tavern with a wrap-around porch.

Shopping in Andes, NY

For shopping, check out the Hawk & Hive art gallery and its neighbors, Wild Common Wine and Clementine Vintage Clothing .

Andes is tiny (only 1000 people call it home) and quiet on weekdays, so keep that in mind! It is, however, surely one of the prettier villages we have visited in this region.

Where to stay in Andes, NY

If you’re looking for a place to stay, see our review of the Secluded Catskills Cabin about 10 miles away. The Andes Hotel is also right in town.

If you venture up this far, consider downloading offline maps in the Google Maps app. This will ensure that your driving directions always work, even if you don’t have service.

Bethel is a tiny town, and you’ll probably only go there if you’re into Woodstock history! Bethel itself is along a main road (Co. Rd. 117) and has an inn, a cafe and a Catskill Distilling Company & the Dancing Cat Saloon.

But once you get there, you’re getting close to the actual location of the Woodstock Festival of 1969, which is located here at this plaque .

Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

Here’s why Bethel is worth a visit: because this is where Woodstock was “ACTUALLY” held! (See above that Woodstock did not actually take place in Woodstock.)

Check out the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts Museum , to learn all about the 1969 Woodstock Festival if you’re a huge music fan or history buff, or if you just like learning about pop culture and the musical phenomenon that stands the test of time.

If you can stick around, check out this huge list of concerts and events that are taking place at Bethel Woods.

South Cairo (Northern Catskills)

As a disclaimer, I’m not saying to visit South Cairo itself. It’s kind of a small dot on the map, a town of about 6000 with a post office, a gas station and a deli.

What I am saying to go there for is the Mahayana Buddhist Temple Retreat (and skip South Cairo itself).

As someone who spent two and a half years living abroad in the Far East (China and Hong Kong, to be exact), I’ve seen my fair share of Buddhist temples (and I actually really do enjoy visiting them).

If you’ve never been out to East Asia, or if you have, and you’d like to get a taste of the culture back here at home, you’ve got to see this peaceful and relaxing oasis full of Asian culture.

Mahayana Buddhist Temple Retreat (most unique place in the Catskills)

Whenever we travel, we seek out things to do that are off the beaten path, and interesting.

In the Catskills, there are certainly some top sights to see like Kaaterskill waterfall, other heavily-trafficked hikes in the spring and fall, and the towns that are all easily accessible by car and highway.

Then, there’s a way to get into something more unique that you can write home about and remember. This is where our top pick for the most unique thing to do in the Catskills comes in.

The most special thing to do in the Catskills, in our opinion, is to visit the Mahayana Temple Upstate Retreat.

In short, it’s the upstate retreat center for the two most popular and famous Buddhist temples in NYC, both of which are located in Chinatown (you can visit them during your trip to New York City, for sure).

So, why does this interesting thing to do in the Catskills check the boxes?

For one, you can pretend you left the country and went straight to the Far East. The three temples, smaller shrine and Jade Pagoda next to the lake, along with the obelisk monument next to the lake, are not things you typically see on the East Coast of the US!

The Mahayana Temple Complex was built in the 1970s and finished in 1971. It sits on more than 100 acres of forest property in the town of Leeds.

Visiting these temples is a cultural experience that many people do not even get to do in their lifetimes, so be ready to take off your shoes (it’s for respect and cleanliness), be mindful with your camera (in case people inside are praying) and enjoy the Chinese and Buddhist culture that is free to access at the temples and pagodas of the Mahayana Upstate Retreat Center.

Also, make sure you take a photo outside the main gate, which is ornate and colorful! The most surprising part is that it’s on a seemingly-random country road, and you’ll pass barns and farms on your way in!

Did we recommend enough cool things to do in the Catskills?

We sure hope we did. This region of Upstate NY is changing so fast due to a demand for domestic tourism and vacation weekend trips that are a short drive from NYC.

So, we urge you to check out small towns, lesser-known hikes and off-the-beaten path unique things to do in the Catskill Mountains. Enjoy, and as always, take photos!

If you’re considering flying from another part of the US into the Catskills region, consider Stewart Airport, which is located north of NYC in the Hudson Valley. Find out more in this guide to all the airports in the NYC metro region .

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New England Wanderlust

New York  ·  October 8, 2022

21 Fun Stops To Make On The Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway (2024)

One of the most beautiful and fun drives to take in Upstate New York is the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway. Not only are the views of the Catskill Mountains spectacular on this route, there are also tons of really cool and fun places to stop along the way, which can easily turn this drive into the perfect weekend getaway. And because the Byway isn’t super long, it allows you to drive at a leisurely pace without feeling like you’re rushed to see everything.

Along the drive, you’ll get the chance to visit some awesome breweries, cideries and distilleries, dine at amazing farm-to-table restaurants, visit quirky attractions, stock up on produce at some lovely farm stands, take some really incredible hikes and visit waterfalls.

This post is all about the best stops to make while driving the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway, and tips to help you plan your road trip. With that, let’s jump in!

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Where Is The Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway?

The byway is located in Upstate New York in the Catskill Mountains region along Route 28, and follows Esopus Creek through much of the Catskills Park . The Byway also connects four towns (Andes, Middletown, Shandaken & Olive), some of which have their own unique villages to explore. And since the Byway is centrally located in the Catskills, you can easily take some side excursions to explore other areas of the region.

The Byway is also 2 hours or less from New York City, making this one of the best getaways from the city you can take if you’re looking to head out into nature.

Where Do You Start The Catskill Mountain Scenic Byway?

There are two entrance points to the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway: Andes, NY and Shokan, NY. For those coming from downstate, you’ll want to start your drive in Shokan on Route 28. For those coming from north of the Catskills, the Andes entrance is the best option (also on Route 28).

How Long Does It Take To Drive The Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway?

The Byway is 52 miles long, and it takes about 1 hour to drive the whole thing (one-way) without any stops. You can easily make a day trip out of driving the Byway, or also turn it into a weekend trip to allow you time to do some hiking and relax.

To make driving the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway a day trip, I would budget the whole day for your drive, which will allow you to see all the towns, and even take a side excursion to some really awesome waterfalls.

Best Stops To Make On The Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway

Since most people will likely begin the drive from the southern part of New York, I’m going to work my way from south to north (Shokan to Andes). These stops will be listed in that order to help you easily plan your trip. If you plan to start in Andes, you’ll just reverse the order. All the stops listed here are directly on the Byway route, or just a few minutes off the route. For great stops to make that are worth a short detour, keep reading the section below.

1. Fruition Chocolate Works

One of the most fun places to stay while driving the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway is Fruition Chocolate Works in Boiceville. Not only are these small-batch chocolates a great snack to munch on during your drive (and to take home with you, of course!), it’s also a working chocolate factory, so you can see the chocolates being made and packaged in person.

There are so many awesome things to try here, including cups of hot chocolate (perfect for fall and winter visits), bars of chocolate, hot chocolate mixes and caramels. And you’ll have a hard time deciding what to get because it’s all amazing (so come prepared to make some tough choices!).

2. Bike The Ashokan Rail Trail

If you’re looking for a scenic bike ride during your road trip, you’ll want to head out onto the Ashokan Rail Trail. This bike trail is 11.5 miles, and takes you along the northern part of the Ashokan Reservoir. During the fall season, it’s especially beautiful with all the blazing color.

While the official start of the rail trail begins in Shokan, it can also be accessed from trailheads in Boiceville and West Hurley.

3. Have Breakfast Or Lunch At Bread Alone Bakery

Bread Alone Bakery is one of the cutest little stops you can make along the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway. Located in Boiceville right off the Byway, you’ll immediately spot the black building and feel enticed to visit.

While the baked goods are amazing here, they also serve great breakfast and lunch foods like egg and cheese sandwiches, breakfast burritos, delicious and fresh salads and comfort favorites like grilled cheese.

They also make all their own organic breads on-site, and this is a great stop to pick up a loaf to bring home. If you visit on a nice day, plan to budget some time to enjoy your food outside at one of their picnic tables.

4. See The World’s Largest Kaleidoscope

One of the quirkiest stops you can make on the drive is swinging by the Emerson Resort in Mount Tremper to see the world’s largest kaleidoscope. And honestly, it’s kind of worth it.

Built inside a farm silo by artist Isaac Abrams, and his son Raphael, this 60-foot kaleidoscope will have you feeling like you’re actually standing inside one (spoiler alert, your visit is also set to music!). After your visit, you can head to the shop to pick up your own kaleidoscope to bring home as a souvenir. The whole thing is really something you have to experience for yourself, and at only $5 per adult, it’s definitely worth the stop.

5. Shop At Tremper Hill Farms

If you’re looking to stop at a cute little farm stand with fresh produce, specialty foods and snacks, and even live plants for your garden, you’ll want to step on your breaks to get to Tremper Hills Farm Stand.

This stand is right on the Byway, and it’s the perfect place to stop for everything I mentioned above. And in the fall season, they’ll have tons of mums and pumpkins to pick up and bring home to decorate your front porch with. Things you’ll want to lookout for here are their jams, maple syrups, seasonal produce and baked goods.

6. Taste The Local Beer At Woodstock Brewery

Located in the unique town of Phoenicia just down the street from the Tremple Hill Farm Stand, you’ll be able to visit Woodstock Brewing right off the Byway. The brewery itself is backdropped by the surrounding mountains, and they have a really nice outdoor patio area with picnic tables to enjoy your brews outside.

During your visit, you’re able to order tasting flights or pints, and they also have a restaurant that serves up really great food (go for the tacos!).

7. Pick Up Some Souvenirs & Fudge At Nest Egg

Also in the town of Phoenicia, you’ll want to swing by Nest Egg, a really fun little country store that has a mix of souvenirs, home goods and fudge. To get here, you’ll have to veer off the Byway just for a couple of minutes, and head to Main Street.

Tip : Phoenicia is a really cool town to walk around, so plan some time to explore if you can. Also, some other great places to visit here are the famous Phoenicia Diner and Sweet Sue’s for breakfast or lunch (the pancakes here are delicious!).

8. Take A Scenic Gondola Ride

A quick 5-minute detour off the Byway will bring you to Belleayre Mountain Resort , which isn’t just for skiers (although, it’s a great place for that, too, if you’re planning a winter trip).

Starting in the beginning of July every year, the Catskill Thunder Gondola takes you up to the mountain’s summit, and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding views. This is another activity I highly recommend in the fall, as the foliage colors will make it even more amazing.

9. Take A Dip At Belleayre Beach

Not far from the Catskill Thunder Gondola, you’ll find Belleayre Beach, which is the perfect stop to make along the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway in the warmer months. Here, you can go for a swim or sit on the sandy shore to admire the views. You can also rent boats or kayaks to head out onto the water.

There’s plenty of places to set-up a picnic as well, so I always like to suggest picking up a few goodies from one of the earlier stops like Tremper Hill Farms, and enjoy them here at the beach.

10. Admire The Queen Anne Houses In Fleischmanns

In the small little village of Fleischmanns, you’ll get to see some really impressive Queen Anne style homes. To see the prettiest ones, you’ll want to veer off the Byway to Main Street in town, and the slow down to admire the houses that line the street. Main Street runs parallel to the Byway, and once you’re done, you can easily connect back to Route 28 to continue with your drive.

11. Sample Local Spirits At Union Grove Distillery

Union Grove Distillery is a really fun and cozy stop to make along the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway, especially if you have an interest in discovering new spirits to try. They also serve cocktails (their cosmopolitan is actually pretty famous!), and have local beers and ciders available if you’re traveling with anyone that’s not into liquor.

During your visit, I suggest trying their Maple Spirit, which is especially lovely to sip on in the fall season.

Union Grove allows you to bring your own snacks to munch on while you sip on your drinks, so keep that in mind. They also offer tours of their distillery to learn about the manufacturing process, which is a cool experience.

12. Explore Downtown Margaretville

One of the bigger towns along the Byway is Margaretville, and this is a great place to park your car and just wander. You’ll find a really nice Main Street here with all kinds of great shops and restaurants, and you can easily spend an hour or two strolling through downtown.

Some places I recommend checking out while you’re strolling around Main Street in Margaretville are:

• Forever Wild Catskills Boutique
• Species By The Thousands Boutique
• Café Marguerite for coffee and french pastries
• Honeybee Herbs & Apothecary

13. Do A Cider Tasting At Wayside Cider

One of the last towns you’ll visit while driving the Byway (or the first if you’re coming from the northern part of the state), is Andes. This is a great little small town that has some really nice places to visit. One of the best destinations in Andes is Wayside Cider .

Not only is the entire property gorgeous, it’s the kind of place that invites you to stay a while and enjoy the atmosphere. Their hard ciders are amazing, and they also offer delicious food including pizzas and other farm-to-table bites. If you visit at night, you’ll get to sit outside under their twinkle lights.

This is probably my favorite place on the whole Byway!

14. Sample More Local Beer At Weaver Hollow Brewery

Weaver Hollow Brewery has turned an old Creamery into an awesome tap room that’s open Fridays and Saturdays. If you happen to drive through on one of these days, I highly suggest you pop in for a drink.

What I especially love about Weaver Hollow is that they brew really unique flavors. Often times, they’re limited releases, but in the past, they’ve offered oolong tea, red velvet and wasabi, in addition to some traditional types. It’s such a fun experience to sample what they’ve created and bottled. If you’re curious what they’ve been brewing during your drive through, you can check out their Instagram page for updates.

Best Stops Near The Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway

While these stops aren’t on the actual Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway, they’re very close. If you’ve got some extra time, these are some amazing places to check out during your drive if you’re up for adventuring off Route 28.

15. Ashokan Reservoir Promenade

If you’re not into biking, but the Ashokan Rail Trail from earlier in this post sounded appealing, I have good news for you. The Ashokan Reservoir Promenade is perfect for those wanting to walk along the reservoir, but don’t necessarily want to bike all 11 miles. This walk will still take you to some of the more scenic areas of the reservoir along 28A, which is just off the Byway, and is only 2.8 miles long.

To access the promenade, you can park at either of the two entrances (just type Ashokan Reservoir Promenade into Google Maps, and both options will come right up for you).

16. Marty’s Mercantile

If you drive the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway in the summer season, you’ll want to consider making a short detour to Marty’s Mercantile. This little sandwich shop is also part country store, and is such a fun and quaint and cozy little place to visit on your drive.

Not only are the sandwiches awesome, they sell all kinds of things like stationary, specialty foods and locally-made items made by New York artisans – all of which is merchandised in beautiful antique cabinets.

To get to Marty’s, it’s just a short drive from the Byway onto Route 28A (and it’s definitely worth it!).

Tip : Keep in mind that Marty’s is only open seasonally (typically spring through September).

17. Kaaterskill Falls

One of the best side excursions to take when driving along the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway is Kaaterskill Falls. This two-tired waterfall is over 200 feet high, and is the highest cascading waterfall in New York State, and one of the most popular to visit.

To see Kaaterskill Falls, you have two options. The easy option for those hoping to just make a quick stop is to take a .3-mile walk from the parking area to the upper viewing platform. From there, you’ll get amazing views of the waterfall and the surrounding mountain vistas.

If you want to get up close to the falls, you’ll be taking a 1.6 mile out and back hike. This option is the most fun, but it’s also a bit more work. The hike isn’t challenging, but it’s definitely steep in parts, and most people should be able to tackle this trail.

Once you finish the hike, you’ll be rewarded with the ability to walk right up to the waterfall, and also go behind it for a really cool experience.

18. Hike The Escarpment-Waterfalls Loop Trail

This hike is one of the best in the area for scenic views and waterfalls, and includes Kaaterskill Falls, as well as Bastion Falls (which is no longer easily accessible on foot unless you hike).

This trail is about a 7.5-mile loop, and it’s mostly pretty easy with a few spots that require some rock scrambling. Most people should be able to tackle this one, too, and it’s the perfect half-day hike (especially in the fall).

19. Tannersville

One of the best towns to explore in the Catskills is Tannersville, and since it’s only about a 20-mile detour off the Byway, it makes it really easy to add to your itinerary.

Tannersville is home to one of the coolest Main Streets in New York State because it’s lined with brightly-colored historic homes. One of the best things to do here is to simply take in that scenery. But, of course, you’ll also find awesome shops and restaurants to explore along Main Street.

Some other great things to check out in Tannersville are:

• The Hudson-Chatham Winery Tasting Room
• Bear & Fox Provisions
• Tannersville Antiques and Arts Center (one of the best in the Catskills for antiques!)
• Mountaintop Arboretum
• A cute little shop called SUNDRY.

20. Round Barn Farmer’s Market

One of the best farmer’s markets in the Catskills is the Pakatakan Farmers Market, which is held at the historic Round Barn in Halcottsville. Seeing the giant round barn is enough reason to stop by, but if you visit May-November, you’ll also get to peruse all the amazing vendors at the farmer’s market. And the best part? It’s only a 10-minute detour off the Byway.

One of the best things to do here is to pack a picnic blanket, buy a few snacks, and sit on the lawn to enjoy the atmosphere. But you’ll find more than food here. Plenty of local artisans will also be selling their handmade products like soaps, jewelry, quilts, home goods and lots more.

21. Have Your Apples Pressed Into Fresh Cider At Hubbell Farm

Did you stop for fresh apples during your drive on the Byway? Then you’ll definitely want to make a quick detour over to Hubbell Farm. On Saturdays in October, they will press your apples and turn them into cider for you, making this one of the more memorable experiences you can have in the Catskills.

Some things to note about this experience:

• If you don’t need to have any apples pressed, they’re likely still doing apple pressing demonstrations on Saturdays, and they invite anyone to come watch.
• Cider pressing is by appointment only on Saturdays, and you need to call or e-mail them to schedule. Their Facebook page is regularly updated with options and contact info . As long as there’s an appointment scheduled for a cider pressing, anyone can swing by to watch!
• They can also provide containers to take your cider with you for a small fee.
• If you don’t visit during apple season, no worries – they often have a small stand out front with fresh produce you can buy.

Best Hotels To Stay In On The Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway

There are three main towns I recommend looking into for overnight stays on this drive: Tannersville , Margaretville and Andes . Tannersville and Margaretville have the most options for hotels and rentals, and Andes is just such a charming and adorable town that’s definitely worth staying in. Here are some suggestions on places to stay.

Best Places To Stay In Tannersville

Even though Tannersville isn’t directly on Route 28 along the Byway, it’s a really great destination for an overnight or weekend stay in the area. In Tannersville, you’ll find lots of restaurant options, cute hotels, cabin rentals and things to do.

One option to consider is booking a vacation rental , which is perfect for a weekend stay. This cozy cabin is only a 3-minute drive to downtown and features an outdoor hot tub, a very cozy firepit with Adirondack chairs, and an instagram-worthy interior.

Click here to book your stay at this cozy cabin with a hot tub in Tannersville!

For an upscale hotel stay , you’ll want to head to Hotel Mountain Brook in Tannersville . The entire hotel feels like something from a magazine, and offers complimentary breakfast, amazingly decorated rooms, views of the sunset from their lawn, firepits outside, an on-site bar and lounge, and is even pet-friendly.

Click here to book your stay at the Hotel Mountain Brook in Tannersville!

For a budget option in Tannersville, the Sun View Motel is a great choice. Rooms are clean and comfortable, and you’re able to walk to shops and restaurants. This is the perfect place to stay if you’re needing a basic accommodation that’s cozy and convenient.

Click here to book your stay at the Sun View Motel in Tannersville!

Best Places To Stay In Margaretville

A great option in Margaretville is this cute log cabin rental . Perfectly balancing cozy and modern, this cabin comes with your own private sauna on the deck and over 6 acres all to yourself, but is only a few minutes into town.

Click here to book your stay at this cute log cabin in Margaretville!

Best Places To Stay In Andes

If you’re looking to stay in a smaller town that still has restaurant options, I think Andes is the perfect option for you. The Andes Hotel is a really cute place to stay, and the biggest appeal is that it has its own restaurant that serves up amazing food, so you definitely won’t go hungry!

Click here to book your stay at The Andes Hotel

Best Time Of The Year To Drive The Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway

The best time of year, and the most popular for this drive, is the fall. The foliage colors will make the drive even more magical than it already is, and the scenic overlooks and rolling mountain views will be spectacular.

That said, this drive is really great all-season, even in the winter! As long as there’s not a dangerous blizzard, a winter drive on the Byway is a lot of fun, and also makes for a really cozy and romantic day trip or weekend getaway.

In the summer, all the farmer’s markets and stands will be in full swing, making this a really great time to visit as well.

That’s A Wrap On The Best Stops On The Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway

There you have it! Now that you know all the best places to stop, you’re ready to plan your own road trip along the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway. For such a short amount of time, you get big payoff with this drive regardless of the season. From cute towns, stunning mountain views, unique stops, farm stands and amazing food, there’s a little something for everyone. Happy driving!

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Not the Adirondacks: 25 Fun Things to Do in the Catskills, NY’s Other Mountains

Cathy Bennett Kopf

New York State has two majestic mountain regions. The Adirondacks is the largest park in the continental United States, covering more than 6 million acres and home to super popular Lake Placid . Often overlooked is the Catskills. It’s no slouch.

The Catskill Park, a mix of public and private lands, is more than 700,000 acres, and the Catskill Forest Preserve, maintained as a forever wild space, is nearly 300,000 acres. We love the Catskills.

Here are our favorite things to do in the Catskills, New York’s other mountains.

Read More: Best Resorts in the Catskills for a Marvelous Mountain Stay

1. Stop By the Catskills Visitor Center (formerly the Catskill Interpretive Center)

Make the recently renamed Catskills Visitor Center your first stop if you’re arriving off the NYS Thruway. Besides very clean restrooms, you’ll find a space packed with all the info you need to begin your Catskills vacation.

Pull out one of the labeled drawers in the storage cabinets and the cabinet map lights up to display relevant locations. Totally cool.

Got a question about area wildlife, hiking terrain, best breakfast? Ask the friendly staff member on duty. There’s also a small but nicely stocked gift shop. Plus, it’s the location of one of the Catskills fire towers open for climbing. More on this hiking challenge in #2.

Read More: Where to find the best Catskills NY restaurants .

2. Climb a Fire Tower

Not gonna lie. My quads were screaming the day after I climbed the 80-foot fire tower at the Catskills Visitor Center. But it was worth it. The view of the forested mountains from the top was breathtaking.

Over a hundred fire towers were used back in the day to scan the mountains for wildfires. When they were decommissioned for public safety use, several were restored for recreational access. The staff at the Catskills Visitor Center can provide you with a map. The one at the Visitors Center is the tallest with the easiest access.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Looking for a luxury stay in the Catskills? Try The Emerson Resort and Spa. You can read our full review , and learn about the Guinness World Record big kaleidoscope.

3. Tour Opus 40

Opus 40  is a remarkable outdoor sculpture park located in the heart of the Catskill Mountains in Saugerties, New York. Created by artist Harvey Fite, it is an expansive environmental sculpture made from bluestone quarried from the surrounding land.

Fite dedicated nearly four decades of his life to crafting this masterpiece, meticulously arranging the stone to create terraces, ramps, and intricate structures that harmonize with the natural landscape, resulting in a mesmerizing fusion of art and nature.

This is one of the most popular attractions in the Catskills, so plan accordingly. Buy tickets and book a tour in advance online.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult and those under 6 must hold hands with their caregiver at all times. Opus 40 is an art park, not a playground.

4. Spend a Groovy Afternoon in Woodstock

The 1969 music festival was named for this Catskill town but the actual site was in nearby Bethel. The town is home to some of the best restaurants in the Catskills and is definitely worth a visit. Highlights include:

• Overlook Mountain: Embark on a scenic hike up Overlook Mountain, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The trailhead is easily accessible from Woodstock and rewards hikers with scenic vistas and a chance to explore the ruins of the Overlook Mountain House, a once-grand hotel.
• Woodstock Playhouse : Catch a live performance at the historic Woodstock Playhouse. This beloved theater hosts a variety of productions, including plays, musicals, and concerts, showcasing local talent and touring acts alike.
• Woodstock Farm Sanctuary: Take a guided or self-guided tour of the Woodstock Farm Sanctuary and interact with rescued farm animals.
• Tinker Street : Shop Woodstock’s main drag, lined with charming shops, art galleries, and eclectic boutiques.

5. Go to a Concert at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

A summer concert at Bethel Woods is one of the favorite things to do in the Catskills. The venue, with capacity for 16,000 at its main stage, is located on the site of the legendary 1969 Woodstock festival.

In addition to a full lineup of headliners, Bethel Woods has a museum dedicated to the ’60s and Woodstock. It’s a great way to get into a groovy Catskills state of mind. Visiting during the holidays? Drive the 1.7-mile Peace, Love, and Lights route.

6. Drive the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway

The Catskill Scenic Byway , also known as Route 28, stretches for approximately 52 miles through the heart of the Catskill Mountains in New York. Starting in the town of Olive near the city of Kingston, the byway winds its way through charming towns, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys before ending in the village of Margaretville.

The appeal of driving the Catskill Scenic Byway lies in its breathtaking vistas, scenic overlooks, and access to numerous outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking trails, fishing spots, and quaint shops and eateries along the route. Several audio guides  are available.

SheBuysTravel Tip: You might want to take it slow to take in the sights. Other drivers will ride your tail because they’re in a hurry to get somewhere. Pull over and let them pass.

7. Get Wet at the Zoom Flume Water Park

Located in East Durham, New York, the Zoom Flume Water Park  is a family-friendly destination in the Catskill Mountains. The outdoor water park offers a wide range of attractions, including exhilarating water slides, a lazy river, wave pools, and interactive play areas.

8. Explore Howe Caverns

A trip to Howe Caverns  is a must when visiting the Catskill Mountains in NY for an outstanding underground adventure. Exploring the caverns provides a unique opportunity to witness the remarkable geological formations that have been millions of years in the making.

Guided tours take visitors through a fascinating underground world, showcasing stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and winding passageways. The tour includes a ¼ mile boat ride in the cavern.

The hike to Kaaterskill Falls is the most popular destination in the Catskills. The trail takes hikers through the Kaaterskill Clove mountain ravine and lush forests, offering a pleasant and scenic journey. The highlight of the hike is reaching the magnificent Kaaterskill Falls, a two-tiered waterfall cascading down a dramatic rock face, providing a stunning backdrop for photos and a refreshing mist for those who venture closer.

The combination of the scenic hike, the allure of the waterfall, and the opportunity to connect with nature make the journey to Kaaterskill Falls a fun and memorable experience for visitors. It’s important, as with all outdoor adventures, to be prepared. The Catskills Visitor Center  has tons of information about this great upstate NY hike.

10. Hunter Mountain Adventure Park

Located in the heart of the Catskill Mountains in Hunter, NY, the Hunter Mountain Adventure Park offers an array of thrilling activities for visitors of all ages. The park features a range of exciting attractions, including ziplining, the Skyride, a climbing tower, a ropes course, and a thrilling mountain coaster.

With its stunning mountain setting, Adventure Park provides a perfect combination of adrenaline-pumping adventures and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking excitement in the Catskills.

Ski Hunter in Winter

In winter Hunter Mountain is one of New York’s most popular ski destinations in the Catskill Mountains. Its appeal lies in its diverse terrain and top-notch facilities, making it suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. The mountain offers a variety of trails, including challenging slopes for experienced riders and gentle slopes for beginners, while its modern lifts and amenities ensure a comfortable and convenient skiing experience.

The picturesque surroundings, along with the resort’s vibrant atmosphere and lively après-ski  scene, add to the overall charm and make Hunter Mountain an attractive winter getaway for snow enthusiasts.

11. U-Pick at a Catskills Farm

In the summer and fall, many of the Catskills farms open their fields to the public for u-pick ‘em fun. Berries, sweet corn, tomatoes, sunflowers, and pumpkins are some of the seasonal delights you’ll find, based on the timing of your visit.

Some of our favorite Catskills farms are:

• Kelder’s Farm : Located in Kerhonkson, Ulster County, Kelder’s Farm offers a delightful u-pick experience. This family-friendly farm features a variety of crops, ready to be picked. Visitors can also enjoy other attractions such as a petting farm, corn maze, and farm market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and local products.
• Dubois Farms : Situated in Highland, Ulster County, Dubois Farms is a popular U-pick destination. Fruits and veggies are pickable in summer. In the fall, the orchards have a wide selection of apple varieties.
• Maynard Farms : Located in Ulster Park, Ulster County, Maynard Farms is a family-owned orchard that offers a variety of apple-picking options with a beautiful backdrop for enjoying the autumn foliage.

12. Cool Off in the Peekamoose Blue Hole

This natural swimming hole was once a hidden gem in upstate New York . However, thanks to social media, the Blue Hole has been overrun by visitors. Day permits are now required and are limited to 50 vehicles per day with up to six occupants admitted per permit.

Permits are available through Reserve America  seven days in advance and sell out quickly. The day permit fee is $10 (non-NYS residents will be charged an additional $5).

If you’re lucky enough to snag a pass, be a responsible visitor. Respect the carry-in, carry-out litter policy, use the available portable toilet, and leave the site cleaner than when you arrived.

13. Ride the Rails

Phoenicia hosts one of five national locations of Rail Explorers . These pedal-powered steel vehicles coast along railroad tracks. In the Catskills, you’ll ride the decommissioned tracks formerly used by the Ulster and Delaware River Railroad.

The eight-mile round-trip trek takes about 2.5 hours. You’ll pedal, assisted by Rail Explorers’ unique Rex Propulsion system. The ride’s hands-free, so cameras and Go-Pros are not only welcomed but encouraged.

14. Go Window Shopping in Downtown Phoenicia

Like to rummage around a quality curio shop? Phoenicia, a sleepy hamlet minutes from the Catskill Forest Preserve, is the place for you. Have brunch first at the renowned Phoenicia Diner, then browse the unique shops and galleries on Main Street. Personal favorite? Multi-merchant Phoenicia Arts and Antiques.

For a touch of culture, catch a live performance at the beloved Phoenicia Playhouse .

15. See the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope

I’m a sucker for odd roadside attractions and will routinely exasperate my husband by screaming “Pull over!” when I see an intriguing billboard.

The world’s largest kaleidoscope is housed in a silo on the grounds of The Emerson Resort and Spa , one of the best resorts in the Catskills. Pay your admission in the kaleidoscope gift shop and wait to be admitted to the 60-foot silo.

You’re given the option to remain standing, braced against an angled board or you can lie down on the carpeted floor for the 10-minute themed “kaleidoshow.” It’s fun and funky and definitely one of the best things to do in the Catskills. After the show, check out the other well-curated boutiques at The Emerson .

Read More: Check Out Jerome  – Arizona’s Famous Ghost Town and Home of the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope Store!

16. Tee Off: Where to Golf in the Catskills

If a vacation isn’t a vacation until you’ve played a round, the Catskills has many public golf courses where you can tee off. You can’t beat the views but be warned that the mountain terrain may be challenging. You’ll definitely work for your beer at the 19th hole!

Top Catskill golf courses include:

• The Monster at Resorts World Catskills : The original Monster was one of America’s top 100 golf courses back in the day. It’s been closed for decades and its reopening after a total redesign by Rees Jones is the golf event of 2023.
• Mohonk Golf Course : Located in New Paltz, NY, Mohonk Golf Course offers a unique golfing experience amidst the natural beauty of the Shawangunk Ridge. This 9-hole course combines picturesque surroundings with well-maintained fairways and greens. Golfers can enjoy panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains as they navigate through the course, making it a delightful destination for a round of golf.
• Thunderhart Golf Course : Found in Freehold, NY, Thunderhart Golf Course is a scenic 18-hole course nestled in the Northern Catskills. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, this course provides a challenging layout with beautiful vistas at every turn. With its well-manicured fairways and friendly atmosphere, Thunderhart offers an enjoyable golfing experience for players of all skill levels.

17. Go Rock Climbing in the “Gunks”

New Paltz, NY, is a popular destination for rock climbing enthusiasts, offering a range of exciting opportunities for climbers of all skill levels. The Shawangunk Mountains, also known as the “Gunks,” provide a renowned rock climbing experience with its world-class cliffs and stunning views.

Rock and Snow , an outfitter located in New Paltz, offers an extensive range of climbing gear for sale and rental. Alpine Endeavors  is a reputable outfitter in the area that provides rock climbing instruction and guided climbs for both beginners and experienced climbers.

Climbing a bit too much for you? Read on to learn about how to access Sam’s Point, the highest point in the Gunks without breaking a sweat.

18. Explore the Minnewaska State Park Preserve

A stop at the Minnewaska State Park Preserve  is a fun outdoor experience in the Catskills. Located in the Shawangunk Mountains of New York, just outside of New Paltz, the preserve offers over 24,000 acres of breathtaking scenery, including waterfalls, dense forests, serene lakes, and dramatic cliffs.

Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, picnicking, swimming in designated areas, and cross-country skiing during the winter months, making Minnewaska State Park Preserve a year-round destination in the Catskills.

The Sam’s Point Area of Minnewaska State Park is a breathtaking natural area located at the highest point of the Shawangunk Mountains. This 5,400-acre preserve is known for its stunning landscapes, unique ecosystems, and awe-inspiring views. Visitors can explore the area’s numerous hiking trails, which lead to picturesque viewpoints, fascinating ice caves, and the iconic Sam’s Point itself—a dramatic rocky outcrop with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

SheBuysTravel Tip:  Parking reservations are required for the area from mid-April through mid-November. Make one at ReserveAmerica .

19. Raft the Delaware River

The 330-mile-long Delaware River begins as a two-branched waterway in the Catskills and is one of the region’s dynamic natural wonders with abundant recreational activities. Several expedition companies offer Delaware river tubing , whitewater rafting, canoe and kayak adventures. Here are three notable options:

• Kittatinny Canoes : Kittatinny Canoes is a well-established adventure company with a base in Barryville, NY, providing whitewater rafting trips on the Delaware River. They offer various rafting experiences suitable for different skill levels, ranging from calm scenic floats to thrilling Class II and Class III rapids.
• Landers River Trips : Landers River Trips, based in Narrowsburg, NY, is another reputable outfitter offering whitewater rafting adventures on the Delaware River. With a range of trip options, including family-friendly floats and exhilarating rapids, they cater to diverse preferences and skill levels.
• Indian Head Canoes & Rafts : Indian Head Canoes & Rafts, located in Barryville, NY, is a family-owned company that has been operating on the Delaware River for over 50 years. They offer guided whitewater rafting trips that allow participants to navigate exciting rapids while enjoying the scenic beauty of the river and surrounding wilderness.

20. Walk or Bike the Ashokan Rail Trail

The Ashokan Rail Trail  is a scenic recreational trail located in Ulster County, New York. Following the path of a former railroad, this trail spans approximately 11.5 miles and offers a scenic journey through the Catskill Mountains.

Visitors can walk, run, bike, or skate along the trail, enjoying stunning year-round views of the Ashokan Reservoir and surrounding natural beauty.

SheBuysTravel Tip:  Access the trail at one of three parking lots located along Route 28. The parking lots are plowed in winter; the trail is not.

21. Hook the Big One: World-Class Fly Fishing 

You’ll find excellent flyfishing opportunities in the Catskill’s pristine rivers and streams. If you’ve never cast a line, here are three notable flyfishing outfitters in the region to get you into waders and the water:

• The Beaverkill Angler : Roscoe’s nickname is “Trout Town USA.” The Beaverkill Angler is a renowned local flyfishing outfitter specializing in guided trips and gear. They offer a range of services, including beginner-friendly instruction and full-day or half-day guided trips tailored to individual preferences.
• West Branch Angler Resort : Situated on the West Branch of the Delaware River in Hancock, NY, West Branch Angler Resort is a premier flyfishing destination in the Catskills. They provide guided flyfishing trips for anglers of all levels, offering opportunities to catch trout in one of the region’s finest fisheries. The resort also offers accommodations, dining, and fly shop services, making it a convenient and comprehensive option for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Esopus Creel : Based in Phoenicia, NY, Esopus Creel is a flyfishing outfitter specializing in guided trips on the Esopus Creek and other nearby waters. With experienced guides, they cater to anglers of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced flyfishers. Whether it’s wading in the renowned Esopus Creek or exploring other nearby rivers and streams, Esopus Creel provides an excellent flyfishing experience in the Catskills.

22. Whee! Windham Mountain Bike Park

The Windham Mountain Bike Park  in Greene County is an exhilarating destination for mountain biking enthusiasts in the Catskill Mountains of New York. With a variety of downhill trails, the park offers thrilling experiences for riders of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders.

The well-maintained trails, breathtaking scenery, and professional staff make Windham Mountain Bike Park a premier mountain biking destination in the region.

Like Hunter Mountain, Windham is a premier New York ski destination in winter with a full range of outdoor activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.

23. Get Inspired by the Art of the Hudson River School 

New York’s Hudson River and the surrounding Catskill mountains inspired a group of landscape painters in the 19th century, known historically as the Hudson River School. The homes of two of the artists – Frederic Church and Thomas Cole – are open to the public and make great destinations when visiting the Catskills.

• The Olana State Historic Site, located in Hudson, is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Hudson Valley. It was once the home and studio of eminent Frederic Edwin Church. Visitors can explore the stunning Persian-inspired mansion, wander through the meticulously designed gardens, and soak in panoramic views, gaining insight into the Church’s life and artistic legacy.
• The Thomas Cole National Historic Site is a perfect add-on to a trip to the Olana State Historic Site for those interested in the Hudson River School of landscape painting. Located in Catskill, New York, the site is the former residence and studio of Thomas Cole, the founder of the Hudson River School.

By visiting both sites, visitors can gain a comprehensive understanding of the art movement and witness the evolution of landscape painting through the works and homes of two prominent artists of the era.

24. All Aboard! Ride the Catskill Mountain Railroad

Kids will love the Catskill Mountain Railroad  for its fun and immersive train rides. The vintage trains offer a nostalgic experience, allowing children to feel like they’ve stepped back in time. They can enjoy the excitement of boarding a locomotive, marvel at the landscapes passing by their windows, and create lasting memories of a classic train journey in the beautiful Catskills.

Themed rides are offered throughout the year including super popular fall foliage trips, Ice Cream Sundays, and the Polar Express.

25. Stay Under the Stars at North-South Lake State Campground

North-South Lake Campground  is the biggest and most popular campground in the Catskill Preserve. The campground boasts a network of hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints, such as the popular hike to Kaaterskill Falls.

Campers can enjoy the serene beauty of the lakeside setting, pitch tents in designated campsites and take advantage of the campground’s amenities, including picnic areas, swimming, and fishing. While glamping options may not be available at North-South Lake Campground specifically, there are nearby luxury camping experiences available in the Catskills for those seeking a more upscale camping experience.

Why the Catskills is Worth Visiting

First, it’s very accessible from New York City and the tri-state area by car. Depending on NYC traffic, you can get from Times Square  to Woodstock, one of the small towns in the heart of the Catskills, in about two hours.

Second, the region has all the outdoor activities outdoorsy folks enjoy – hiking, camping, rafting, ziplining, and birding. The Catskills is home to the Gunks, one of the premier rock climbing destinations in the world, and Roscoe, NY, made  Field and Stream’s list  of the five best trout fishing towns in America.

And, finally, it’s uniquely the Catskills. Back in the ’50s, the region was home to grand summer resorts. Irish, Italian, and Jewish families would escape to the region to beat the city heat; some stayed for the whole season. Dirty Dancing  and the second season of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel  capture the spirit of the era. The Catskills’ Woodstock Music Festival in 1969 ushered in a new social and political climate in America. The hippies may have left the Catskills region but the vibe here is still totally laidback and chill.

Considering a trip? Pack your tie-dye and break out your daddy’s Grateful Dead bootlegs.

One response

Hello! We are a location in the Catskill mountains that is trying to gain more exposure to visitors and travelers. We have three Buddhist temples on site that we would love to get more travelers to visit. These are open to the public and free to visitors! We even hosts activates on site that they are able to sign up for. I would love to connect.

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The Best Small Towns in the Catskills for Hiking, Boutique Hotels, and Breweries

From Round Top to Roscoe, add these fantastic mountain towns to your list.

Look, things change. We didn't need a pandemic to tell us that the Catskills , too, have evolved with the times. Harried city dwellers rushing to the Borscht Belt have accelerated the region's renaissance. And it was already on the precipice of a revival.

Nonetheless, that old truism that the more things change, the more they stay the same never rings louder than in the storied Cats. Take locals of Fallsburg, for instance, who still aren't over the recent shuttering of Frankie & Johnny's Nardi's Italian Restaurant after four decades of heaping comfort food platters. While there's nothing we can do to quell the blow, we can tell you that there's just something about the air up here, the slant of the morning light, even the echoes of tennis balls reverberating in the cradle of cordilleras, that make all these transformations work. All of that has stayed the same in these hallowed hills .

Yes, there's a dizzying slate of incredible new restaurants, hotels, and experiences in these parts (and we'll happily point you in the right direction). But at the end of the day, what makes the towns below worth journeying to are the very gulps of mountainous ether and endless green landscapes that have been here for time immemorial. Here, the very best small towns in the Catskills to visit.

With all due respect to Thomas Jefferson and his Charlottesville Estate, New York's Monticello sets the bar really high — and we're not just talking about the towering, age-old peaks of the Catskills' verdant ranges. Here, visitors can chase adrenaline highs at the Monticello Motor Club , big wins at Resorts World Catskills (a great place to stay and kiddos will love the adjacent Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark ), and chakra euphoria at the Ayurvedic luxury health resort Yo1 .

For a private getaway, set up shop at Red Cottage Inc.'s Crosslands two-bedroom home, one of our favorite abodes in their curated portfolio of chi-chi vacation rentals, this one with a fireplace, swimming pond with a dock, hot tub, fire pits, gas barbecue grill, and more.

This Sullivan County hub gives off serious '50s summer camp energy. While there's a dizzying array of camping options in "Trout Town USA," our vote is the unique Roscoe Campsite , where you can channel your inner pioneer person and sleep in a covered Conestoga wagon. Or, for another one-of-a-kind digs, venture to Buck Brook Alpacas , which operates an Airbnb listing on the farm where you can walk, feed, and pet the alpacas to your heart's content. Either way, reward yourself for roughing it in nature with a tipple at Roscoe Beer Co . or Navy veteran-founded Do Good Spirits , or a crock of French onion soup and a panini at Roscoe Diner .

For something off the beaten path — for now — try Round Top (and the adjacent hamlet of Purling) in Greene County. Expect German-American spirit and grub galore with properties such as Riedlbauer's Resort , The Bavarian Manor Country Inn and Restaurant , and Crystal Brook Mountain Brauhaus . If you prefer to relegate your Bavarian fix to mealtimes only, try lodging at Winter Clove Inn or the Glen Falls House .

The Great Northern Catskills region abounds with natural splendor. Biking enthusiasts will rejoice in " Roundtopia ," a network of first-rate mountain biking trails. Hikers can hit up East Kill Falls for a 7.2-mile trek brimming with breathtaking views, or form sylvan memories at Whip-O-Will Campsites . Adirondack chair sitters will be pleased to melt the day away with a book or a sketchpad sans sweat by plopping down at Glen Falls, a swimming hole with a waterfall view on-site at the eponymous resort. For some indoorsy fun, skate the night away at Cairo Purling Roller Rink , a 1950s-era gem that will make you want to return to the city, well, never.

Once upon a time, there was this not-so-little-thing called Woodstock. Bethel is home to the National Historic Site of the 1969 Woodstock Festival. The town is also known for Bethel Woods Center for the Arts (which has drawn acts as diverse as the Dave Matthews Band, the New York Philharmonic, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, and Santana).

When hunger strikes, mosey on over to the Dancing Cat Saloon , where Catskill Distilling Company is also located. In the winter, the enchanting Peace, Love & Lights show is a good itinerary swap for patio hangs and live music sessions at the ol' Dancin' Cat. Traveling with a group? Come nightfall, book Red Cottage's The Homestead on picturesque Kauneonga Lake (also known as White Lake), a 14-bedroom lakefront compound with a fireplace, kayak and water toys, fire pit, and a modern chef's kitchen. The rental company's Journey's End and Deer Meadows are two other stellar and smaller options in the town of Bethel.

Nothing pluck at your heartstrings like a good Main Street? Then head to Fallsburg's hamlet of Hurleyville, an under-the-radar jewel of Sullivan County. There, you can fuel up at the award-winning Pickled Owl restaurant, check out Fiber on Main yarn store, and experience Hurleyville Arts Centre (new to the Centre is Tango Cafe, a restaurant from celebrated chef Tom Valenti, best known for his days as executive chef at Le Cirque and his former restaurant Oxbow Tavern in Manhattan). Other worthwhile pit stops include the recently opened La Salumina charcuterie shop, and Fortress Bikes for bike and snowshoe rentals. Speaking of which, when you're ready to bike, hike, or snowshoe the trails, you've found your perfect match in the O&W Rail Trail which passes through storybook villages like Woodridge and Mountaindale (after a walk along soul-restoring and aptly named Pleasure Lake , drive on Davos Road to Witchey Handmade Herbal Apothecary for some gifts for the folks back at home).

Margaretville

Another idyllic stroll on Main Street awaits, this time in Delaware County. Pop into apothecary Species by the Thousands for a candle, aromatherapy oils, or jewelry, before continuing your apothecary tour onto Honeybee Herbs where you'll want to stock up on jars of their herbal tea blends, raw honey, and a motley assortment of tinctures. Once you've worked up an appetite, try quintessential mountain town haunt Binnekill Tavern , coffee and pastry haunt Café Marguerite (the smoked salmon on an everything croissant is always a good idea), family-owned Trattoria Locale for delectable Italian fare, and recently opened, health-focused eatery Lucky Sparrow Kitchen. Pro tip: Place a family-style catering order to bring on a day of hiking at nearby spots like Dry Brook Ridge Trail , Kelly Hollow Loop , or Huckleberry Loop .

When it's time to seek salvation for your sapped calf muscles, book your stay at Belle Ayre House , an inviting and meticulously restored three-bedroom farmhouse; Groovy Chalet for easy access to hiking trails and skiing; the Homestead Farm Resort (est. 1819); or Hanah Mountain Resort & Country Club , if you seek a more traditional hotel experience. If you can, reserve a workshop or retreat at the Blue Deer Center , a nonprofit that creates programs around ancestral wisdom and healing principles, before your time in Margaretville is complete.

First stop: The Watershed , "Roxbury's front porch," which has visitors covered from morning coffee to last-call cocktails. Properly caffeinated, head to Plattekill Mountain for some skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, or a scenic chairlift ride in this beautiful pocket of the Western Catskills. Located in Delaware County, Roxbury also boasts historic Kirkside Park , a one-time estate turned into an 11-acre public park and an ideal spot for a seasonal picnic. When it's time for sustenance, head to The Fierce Grizzly , which doles out elevated continental cuisine in a former tin shop.

For your home away from home, Bellfire in the Catskills on Bellfire Farm offers an off-grid tented experience or a tiny home with a six-foot skylight and 11-foot windows in the living area. There are also rooms to rent in the farmhouse. More stellar lodging options include The Roxbury Motel and The Roxbury at Stratton Falls , both offering themed rooms with whimsical design.

This remote town in Greene County is home to some of the hottest craft beverage spots in the state, such as Subversive Malting Brewing and Left Bank Ciders . For shopping enthusiasts, a winning Main Street entices with independently owned shops and restaurants like New York Restaurant , featuring Polish and American hits, with vegan and gluten-free dishes thrown into the mix. Other Main Street standouts include Willa's (two words: cinnamon buns), Citiot , a hybrid coffee shop and art/gift store.

When you're ready to call it a night, meander on over to the recently opened Piaule Catskill, which has 24 guest cabins on forested grounds, as well as an on-site restaurant and bar, spa and wellness center, and countless hiking trails. Before you skip town, visit Thomas Cole National Historic Site , where the famed artist who founded the Hudson River School of American painting lived and worked.

Pack your gym clothes and/or ski gear: between Windham Mountain , Windham Mountain Bike Park , and the Windham Path , there's no shortage of opportunities for active fun from fly-fishing to skiing in this tiny town in Greene County. Alternately, swap adrenaline for resveratrol at The Vineyard at Windham , a four-acre oenophile's paradise with wonderful views of its namesake mountain.

We're swooning for the Scandinavian-inspired Lushna Suites at the Eastwind Hotel & Bar ; they're glamping cabins that come outfitted with a lofted queen bed with an A-frame window, full-size sofa bed, writer's nook, bathroom with a windowed shower, deck with patio furniture, fire pit, outdoor shower, and hammock. Or, set your sights on the Union & Post boutique hotel and restaurant, a design-forward oasis from the hustle and bustle of urban living.

Livingston Manor

There's good reason we named Livingston Manor one of the best small towns in New York . Talk about an interesting town doing interesting things — it's a bit like a real-life Schitt's Creek — so much so that it's converting tourists into new residents. One of the key players in re-imagining this mountain town is Sims Foster of Foster Supply Hospitality . FSH is behind The Arnold House (share their smoked trout dip with someone you love after a long drive up from the city) and The DeBruce , a bucolic boutique hotel and veritable epicurean oasis . Sims has also redeveloped old motels into handsomely preserved properties. The Catskill Project is also worth keeping your eyes on, a carbon-neutral and completely regenerative housing community perched on 90 acres in this once sleepy river valley town.

Development bonanza aside, tourists should be sure to visit The Catskill Fly Fishing Center & Museum , an anglers' heaven; Upward Brewing , where two friends and many a Craigslist finds resulted in one of the most stunning breweries in the area (don't miss the black pilsner); and Sullivan County-based The Outside Institute , a naturalist program with private walks, foraging excursions, botanical mixology classes, and more.

10 Stunning Catskill Mountains Scenic Drives

For over 20 years I’ve explored the Catskill Mountains and among other things, what I love about this area is it’s scenic drives. In this post I want to share with you my top 10 and these are not just general recommendations but specific locations and which routes to take within this gigantic area to get amazing views. 

My top 10 Catskill Mountains scenic byways:

• Road 23A (Eastern Catskill Mountains)
• Road 16 (Platte Clove Road)
• Road 214 (Phoenicia area)
• Road 30 (Grand Gorge area)
• Road 23 (Widham area)
• Road 212 (Woodstock area)
• Route 23C (Tannersville area)
• Road 44 (Lake Minnewaska area)
• Road 42 (West Kill area)
• Road 6 (Spruceton Road)

1) Road 23A:

• Recommended scenic route to take: Start in Palenville NY and head west on 23A all the way to Grand Gorge. 

Road 23A begins in the eastern section of the Catskill Mountains. It runs westward for over 40 miles throughout the mountain range and has you cross several towns including Tannersville and Hunter Mountain.

While the entire drive is beautiful, the standout for me personally has always been the eastern section of this drive from Palenville to Haines Falls. That section of the drive has you officially enter Catskill Park and drive across a stunning serpentine section where you cross beautiful Catskill swimming holes including Fawn’s Leap as well as one of the trailheads to the super popular Kaaterskill Falls hike .

2) Road 16 (Platte Clove Road):

• Recommended scenic route to take: Start at Tannersville and drive east on Road 16 toward West Saugerties.

To date this is my favorite scenic drive in the Catskill Mountains. It’s located in the southern section of the Kaaterskill Wild Forest and is only about 15 miles long. However on those 15 miles is a another beautiful serpentine road that rises a few 100 feet in elevation and gives you incredible gorge views of the eastern Catskills as well as access to 2 very popular destinations and they are an access point to the Long Path hike and the beautiful Plattekill Falls (there’s a very short hike from Road 16 to get to it).

One important thing to know is that the easternmost section of Platte Clove Road closes during winter so make sure to only go there before mid October. I’ve personally driven up and down this particular road and going down is in my opinion more fun and scenic.

3) Road 214 (Phoenicia area):

• Recommended scenic route to take:  Start on Road 23A at Stoney Clove and head south on Road 214 towards Phoenicia.

This is another one of those incredible scenic drives in the Catskills I’ve done many times and highly recommend as well. It’s about 20 miles long and has you pass through some of the most beautiful views of the Catskill Mountains, specifically the Devils Tombstone Campground area. It ends in the town of Phoenicia which is very small but an excellent spot to stop at after your drive.

4) Road 30 (Grand Gorge area):

• Recommended scenic route to take: Start in Grand Gorge NY and head north on Road 30 towards Minekill Falls.

This is a beautiful up and down road you’ll find in the northern Catskills area. It had you pass the town of Grand Gorge and work your way up to the New York Reservoirs. While on this road you will have amazing 360 views of the Catskills with many beautiful fields and farms. The entire drive is about 30 miles but highly recommended especially towards it’s end when you reach an area called Minekill Falls which is one of the best Catskills waterfalls .

5) Road 23 (Widham area):

• Recommended scenic route to take: Start in Ashland NY and head east towards East Widham. 

Widham is one of the most popular regions in the Catskills and it’s typically popular year long. However the main road which goes through the area, Road 23 is also very scenic and this is why I’m going to be recommending you check it out too.  The entire drive is a little over 30 miles and can be done east to west or vice versa. On that road you will pass the town of Widham itself and there’s a bunch of places for lodging and exploring there too and in addition to that, exploring the Widham Mountain itself is also highly recommended. 

6) Road 212 (Woodstock area):

• Recommended scenic route to take: Start in Mt. Marion and head west on 212 past Woodstock and towards Phoenicia. 

This is one of the main scenic drives in the southern Catskills, particularly near the town of Woodstock. It’s a little over 40 miles long and on it you will pass a lot of mountain sights, but in addition to that you will also pass by the town of Woodstock itself which has beautiful neighborhoods, great hiking trails like the Overlook Mountain and much more.

7) Route 23C (Tannersville area):

• Recommended scenic route to take: Start in Tannersville and head north on Route 23C towards East Jewett.

This scenic drive is a great mix of both an amazing winding road and incredible stops along the way. It’s about 10 mile long and has you pass some of the biggest houses in the whole Catskills area. In addition to that there are also castle like structures throughout this drive, an incredibly scenic church and a botanical garden called Mountain Top Arboretum which I strongly recommend checking out.

8) Road 44 (Lake Minnewaska area):

• Recommended scenic route to take: Start at the entrance of Lake Minnewaska State Park , then head west on 44 until you reach the town of Kerhonkson. 

This scenic drive is one of the shortest on the list but it is also extremely scenic and worth taking especially if you plan to visit Lake Minnewaska State Park which happens to be one of my personal favorites in terms of best state parks in New York . On this drive you will slowly head downward on a serpentine road and see beautiful views of the southern Catskills regions. While the mountain ranges in this section of the Catskills aren’t as huge as the options mentioned before on this list, they are still amazing and I personally love this short drive (it’s only about 10 miles).

9) Road 42 (West Kill area):

• Recommended scenic route to take: Start in the town of Lexington, drive south on Road 42 towards Shandaken.

This is another great scenic drive in the western section of the Catskill Mountains. Here you are driving past some of the biggest mountains in the area including West Kill Mountain. There are also serpentine roads and great overlooks of the giant mountains across the way. This drive is only about 20 miles long but is highly scenic throughout with hikes and trailheads available throughout. There’s even a few waterfalls throughout that you can hear and hike to that are close to the road. Originally I was considering adding it to my Catskills fall foliage recommendation, but just doing this drive year round is a stunning experience, so we’ll just keep it for this post.

10) Road 6 (Spruceton Road):

• Recommended scenic route to take: Start in the town of West Kill and head east on Road 6 until you read the end (10 miles).

This scenic drive is also short but has you go through an open field surrounded by Catskill Mountains. It also leads you to some very popular trailheads such as Spruceton trailhead which is one of the end points to a popular and difficult hike called Devils Path . Additionally it also takes you to a short hike (only 1/4 miles) to Diamond Notch Falls which is also very stunning. 

• Best hikes in the Catskills
• Catskills visitor guide
• Things to do in North South Lake

Hi I'm Vitaliy, I love nature travel and this blog encapsulates all of my adventures and top recommendations of what to see (and what to avoid).

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Best time to visit the Catskills for all four seasons

Nov 24, 2021 • 6 min read

A man snow-tubing in the Catskill Mountains in winter © Cavan Images RF / Getty Images

The Catskill Mountains are a region for all seasons. Summer's leafy-green forests turn kaleidoscopic in fall and winter's snow-covered spectacular ends with bursting blooms in springtime. Charming towns with artsy appeal attract weekenders year-round, and a dynamic list of outdoor excursions changes with the weather. 

These rolling plateaus might not buzz with the up-all-night energy of nearby New York City, but don't be fooled – there's always something new unfolding in the Catskills. Here's a guide for navigating the upstate New York destination throughout the year. 

High season in the Catskills runs June through October

Best time for outdoor adventures.

When summer heats up the Northeast, the Catskills provide a place to cool off. The region's pastoral towns are mere minutes from an abundance of freshwater lakes and woodland trails , and by late June, they overflow with city dwellers ready to indulge in the offerings.

Autumn's mid-September arrival is the cue for leaf-peeping – when crowds come to gawk at fall foliage and celebrate the year's harvest. Plan your trip early – weekend bookings at the best hotels and campsites can fill up months in advance. 

Save a buck during shoulder season: April & May, November & December

Best time for budget travelers.

Spring is mud season – when winter's icy melt-off creates swampy conditions for hikers. It's also when waterfalls are at their most powerful, fly fishing is at its best, and birders can spot migratory species like warblers and tanagers flitting through blooming forests. Summer crowds don't arrive until Memorial Day, making it possible to snag deals at hotels through mid-May.   

November and December bring colder temperatures and occasional snow. Wilderness excursions are still worthwhile, but these days are best for exploring cozy main streets tucked into the mountains.

Avoid the crowds from January to March 

Best time for winter sports .

The Catskills wear a blanket of white all winter long, inspiring two types of activities – snuggling indoors or hitting icy slopes. Seasonal businesses tend to close or limit their hours during this time of year, so there won't be as many options for shopping and eating – a non-issue for people planning to spend their time skiing, snowboarding or ice skating. Thinner crowds make it possible for city residents to book last-minute retreats. 

January is for snow bunnies 

The region's coldest month might seem the most foreboding, but there's no such thing as bad weather – only bad clothing. Bundle up to join snow bunnies racing down Hunter Mountain, or strap on snowshoes to see the Catskill Forest Preserve's frosted landscape.  

Enjoy icy outdoor adventures in February

Months of below-freezing temperatures mean ice-covered lakes are usually safe enough for skating, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing. Families book weekend vacations at lodges like Mohonk Mountain House for snowy Presidents' Day vacations. 

Things get muddy in March 

Late March is the beginning of mud season. The ground starts to thaw, ice begins to melt, and an erratic mix of snow and rain makes this a perfect time to cozy up at a cafe or a local brewery. 

Key Event: Jeffersonville St. Patrick's Day Parade

April means fishing 

Mud season continues, with rivers and creeks flowing at max capacity. It's also the beginning of New York's fly fishing season – when anglers head to Roscoe (nicknamed Trout Town, USA) to cast their lines at Junction Pool. By the end of the month, pastel blossoms erupt around the countryside. 

Birdwatchers flock to the Catskills in May

Chilly mornings give way to warm afternoons, and by Memorial Day, sleepy towns spring back to life with the reopening of seasonal businesses. May is the best time for birders to spot an array of avian visitors, but it's also when pesky black flies rear their heads. Bring insect repellent when venturing into the woods. 

Key Event: TAP New York Craft Beer and Food Festival

June is the perfect time to hit the trails 

Early June's temperate weather is perfect for hiking. Seasonal residents don't arrive en masse until the month's end, so take advantage of smaller crowds at popular sites. Remember to bring a sweater – even in summer, nights can be surprisingly chilly. 

Key Events: Trout Parade, Stagecoach Run Art Festival 

Find a cool swimming hole in July

Enjoy July's dog days by jumping in a swimming hole or floating down a river. Blueberries and raspberries are bountiful, and you can find local, fresh-picked fruit at farmers' markets. The hottest month in the Catskills is also the most sought-after, which means longer lines, crowded destinations and rare vacancies at boutique hotels.

Key Events: Independence Day, Catskills Irish Arts Week

Enjoy the Perseid meteor shower in August

The summer swelter continues well into August, with lakes reaching temperatures ideal for all-day soaking. Plan a camping trip around the Perseid meteor shower, when shooting stars light up the night sky. Late summer is the best time of year to snack on sweet corn, which grows all over the region. 

Key Events: Flea Valley Festival, Little World's Fair

Pick some apples in September 

As summer residents flock south post-Labor Day, NYC weekenders take their place to delight in harvest festivals, Oktoberfest celebrations, and slightly cooler temperatures. Lean into the autumnal spirit by picking apples at a local farm. 

Key Events: Harvest Festival at Bethel Woods, Hunter Mountain Oktoberfest, Woodstock Film Festival, Big Eddy Film Festival 

October is leaf-peeping time 

This is peak leaf-peeping season – when fall foliage turns the Catskill Mountains into an arboreal art show. Take to tree-lined trails or wind around scenic byways to see the region at its most picturesque. 

Key Events: Autumn Affair at Windham, Taste of the Catskills Festival, Plattepalooza Family Festival, Woodstock Halloween Parade

Hunting season kicks off in November 

The tail end of fall foliage means fewer crowds and cheaper hotel rooms. Balmy days are still a possibility – but expect morning frost. Late November is also the start of deer hunting season. Outdoor enthusiasts keen on hiking should wear bright colors (preferably blaze orange), stay on designated trails, and choose a site where hunting is forbidden. Summer businesses close or limit their hours for winter. 

Key Events: Hunting season

Bethel Woods holiday markets are a must in December

Hygge hotel stays are best during winter's early weeks. Stroll down main streets in towns like Livingston Manor, New Paltz or Woodstock to find unique holiday gifts at local boutiques. Snow is always a possibility; come prepared for inclement weather. 

Key Event: Holiday Market at Bethel Woods, Peace, Love & Lights

You might also like:  How to plan the perfect Catskills weekend getaway The Catskill’s best swimming holes and relaxing lakes   15 unique things to do in the Catskill Mountains

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14 Perfect Small Mountain Towns You Can Find In Upstate New York

• Upstate New York is packed with cozy mountain towns that offer breathtaking scenery, outdoor recreation, and eclectic eateries.
• Penn Yan is a lovely town split into two sections, with shops, cafes, vineyards, and regional eateries to explore.
• Tupper Lake is an ideal vacation spot for water and forest enthusiasts, with clear waters, hiking routes, and outdoor-focused amenities.

Upstate New York is full of cozy mountain towns whose spectacular scenery; epic outdoor recreation; and a plethora of hip, eclectic eateries, attractions, and accommodations make for the perfect getaway. The following spots are some of New York’s top tiny towns : from lakeside retreats with dramatic mountain backdrops; to quaint villages and hamlets bursting with stellar scenery and homey hospitality, these upstate gems are the best ways to experience NY’s most charming small-town getaways.

UPDATE: 2023/09/14 20:50 EST BY MARIA BOU INK

Upstate New York is packed with beautiful small mountain towns. Therefore, this list was updated to include more magical communities to be explored during the next vacation.

Related: These Small U.S. Towns Offer The Best Vacation During September

Penn Yan is one of the most lovely little mountain towns in New York and is located directly on Keuka Lake. The city of Penn Yan is split in two. There are a number of shops, cafés, and restaurants in the downtown area of Penn Yan that have an authentic old-town feel. Wonderful vineyards and regional eateries can be found throughout the Penn Yan district, which is the second section of the town.

• Things To Do: Walk along the Keuka Lake Wine Trail, The Keuka Lake Outlet Trail, and other trails around the gorgeous scenery that surrounds the town, including Seneca Mills Falls
• Stay The Night: Hampton Inn Penn Yan, Best Western Inn Vineyard Inn & Suites
• Wine & Dine: Penn Yann Diner, The Wagner Restaurant

Geneva, New York, is a small beautiful community located close to Seneca Lake in a rather flat area of the country. One of Upstate New York's mountain towns, it's growing in popularity every year. In addition to the difference in environment, moving from a large metropolis will result in a significant shift in lifestyle. Geneva also houses the esteemed Hobart and William Smith Colleges. As a result, the downtown area is home to co-working spaces, coffee shops, restaurants, and even a welcome center. Geneva has a pleasant, almost European vibe to it, which visitors will likely appreciate.

• Things To Do: Attend a play at the Smith Opera House, visit Seneca Lake State Park
• Stay The Night: The Vinifera Inn, Days Inn by Wyndham Geneva/Finger Lakes
• Wine & Dine: The Rusty Pig, The Deluxe Grill, F.L.X Table

Tupper Lake

Tupper Lake, located in the Adirondack Park, isn't a typical small mountain town in Upstate New York. Tupper Lake is the ideal vacation spot for both water and forest enthusiasts because of its clear waters, lovely hiking routes, and limitless outdoor-focused amenities like the Wild Center and Adirondack Public Observatory. Even while visitors could easily spend weeks exploring the town's fine dining establishments and swimming about in the different lakes, most people just have the weekend.

• Things To Do: Visit The Wild Center and Raquette River Brewing
• Stay The Night: Shaheen’s Adirondack Inn, Tupper Lake Motel
• Wine & Dine: Main Street Restaurant, Pine Grove Restaurant

Related: Permanent Vacation: These Are The Best Small Towns You Can Retire To In The U.S.

Old Forge serves as the Adirondack Base Camp for tourists who travel great distances in search of tranquility and adventure. In the ancient Town of Webb, which also contains Eagle Bay, Big Moose, and Stillwater, it is the biggest hamlet. The mountain town visitors may travel throughout the Adirondack Park and the Central Adirondack region from here. It's called An Adirondack Feeling because of the cool mountain air, the campfire that's crackling, and the lake in the Adirondacks that reflects the moon.

• Things To Do: Explore Bold Mountain, see Adirondack Scenic Railroad
• Stay The Night: Water’s Wedge Inn, Adirondack Lodge, Old Forge
• Wine & Dine: The Mill, Billy’s Restaurant

Mount Tremper

Located within the (slightly) larger town of Shandaken, this cozy hamlet of Mount Tremper is the epitome of Catskill cool—but don’t expect a bustling metropolis. The best reason to visit this small mountain beauty is undoubtedly its stunning surroundings—including its namesake Mount Tremper, and plenty of nearby outdoor recreation.

• Things To Do: Mount Tremper (hiking, fire tower); World’s Largest Kaleidoscope; Catskills Visitor Center; Brunel Sculpture Garden
• Stay The Night: Foxfire Mountain House; The Graham & Co. (Phoenicia)
• Wine & Dine: Phoenicia Diner; The Pines; Woodstock Brewing

Livingston Manor

In recent years, this cozy Catskills spot has undergone a renaissance of sorts with the addition of a number of chic stays and eclectic local businesses—making it the perfect place to set up camp for an adventure in one of the best mountain towns in New York. Be sure to check out the hip downtown shops and eateries before heading out to one of the area’s super cool accommodations.

• Things To Do: Long Weekend, nest, and Upstream Wine & Spirits (shopping); Willowemoc State Forest (hiking, birding, fishing); Sonoma Falls
• Stay The Night: The DeBruce, The Arnold House, Beaverkill Valley Inn
• Wine & Dine: Main Street Farm; The Kaatskeller; The Smoke Joint; Upward Brewing

RELATED: These Are The Most Beautiful Lakes You Can Visit In New York State

Saranac Lake

Like many of New York’s best mountain towns, the scenic Saranac Lake is also famed for its lovely waterways—making it a bastion for year-round outdoor adventure and breathtaking, tranquil landscapes. A bustling downtown area complete with eclectic shops, eateries, and stays round out the Saranac Lake experience—and creates a one-of-a-kind upstate getaway .

• Things To Do: Saranac Lake Walking Tour; Adirondack Carousel; Dewey Mountain Recreation Center; Saranac Laboratory Museum
• Stay The Night: Saranac Waterfront Lodge; The Point
• Wine & Dine: Red Fox Restaurant; Left Bank Cafe; Boathouse Saranac Lake Pub

Lake George

A top upstate New York vacation destination for over 200 years, the Adirondack village of Lake George is often referred to as “the birthplace of the American vacation.” With its towering mountains, crystal clear namesake lake, and a year-round catalog of endless outdoor adventures, it’s easy to see why visitors are still flocking to this pristine and picturesque gem.

• Things To Do: Adirondack Park; Lake George (summer and winter); Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway; Coopers Cave Overlook
• Stay The Night: Fort William Henry Hotel; Georgian Lakeside Retreat
• Wine & Dine: Saluti; Adirondack Pub & Brewery; Biscotti Brothers Cafe

The Great Northern Catskills has a number of charming small towns —however, none are as appropriately named as the village of Catskill. Situated on the banks of the Hudson River, Catskill is an outdoorsy paradise whose natural beauty has inspired artists for generations, giving the tiny town an artsy charm all its own.

• Things To Do: Thomas Cole House; Hudson River Skywalk; RamsHorn-Livingston Sanctuary; Dutchman’s Landing
• Stay The Night: Piale Catskill; The Kaaterskill
• Wine & Dine: Rip Van Winkle Brewing Company; New York Restaurant; J&J Smokehouse BBQ

Just a short drive away from the famed hippie haven of Woodstock , Saugerties is a scenic treasure located between the Hudson River and the Catskills. Full of laidback small mountain town vibes and packed with plenty of outdoorsy and cultural attractions, Saugerties is the perfect balance of activity and idyllic charm.

• Things To Do: Opus 40; Saugerties Lighthouse; Esopus Bend Nature Preserve (hiking, canoeing; kayaking, birding); Saugerties Farmers’ Market
• Stay The Night: Diamond Mills Hotel; The Villa at Saugerties
• Wine & Dine: The Red Onion; Ohana Café; The Dutch Ale House

RELATED: 10 Best Small Towns In New York's Hudson Valley

Hunter & Tannersville

Both outdoor enthusiasts and R&R seekers will find plenty to do in the picturesque Northern Catskills haven of Hunter. Including both the village of Hunter and Tannersville, this two-in-one New York mountain town nestled among the area’s highest peaks is picturesque, welcoming, and full of Catskills coziness .

• Things To Do: Hunter Mountain Resort; Kaaterskill Falls; Mountain Top Arboretum; New York Zipline Adventures
• Stay The Night: Scribner’s Catskill Lodge; Hotel Lilien
• Wine & Dine: Hunter Mountain Brewery; Jägerberg Beer Hall & Alpine Tavern; Mama’s Boy Burgers

The historic haven of Windham is often referred to as “The Gem of the Catskills” —and with good reason. An idyllic combo of Main Street and mountain charm, Windham is home to stunning natural landscapes that are perfect for exploring—while also hosting a number of hip hotspots where guests can max and relax at the end of the day.

• Things To Do: The Vineyard at Windham; Windham Mountain (biking, Skyride, skiing, golfing); Elm Ridge Wild Forest; Catskill Mountain Country Store
• Stay The Night: Union + Post; Albergo Allegria B&B
• Wine & Dine: Bistro Brie and Bordeaux; The Windham Local Public House; Mill Rock Restaurant

Lake Placid

Another upstate lake and Adirondack charmer, Lake Placid, is famous for hosting the Winter Olympics not once but twice —and once visitors scope the area’s dramatic scenery, it’s easy to see why. A year-round destination with everything from skating to swimming, Lake Placid is also home to a quaint downtown area with plenty of eateries, shops, and chances for mountain town R&R.

• Things To Do: Lake Placid Olympic Museum; Mirror Lake; John Brown Farm State Historic Site; Lake Placid (hiking, kayaking, canoeing, swimming); Ice Skating at the Olympic Oval
• Stay The Night: Mirror Lake Inn ; Lake Placid Inn; Eastwind Lake Placid
• Wine & Dine: The Pickled Pig; Salt of the Earth Bistro; Jimmys 21

RELATED: 10 Reasons To Visit Lake Placid In Winter

Full of laidback small-town vibes and stunning natural beauty, the Hudson Valley Haven of High Falls also has its share of upstate mountain charm. While the nearby Shawagunk Mountains (aka The Gunks) provide plenty of natural beauty and outdoor adventures, the area is also home to plenty of unique eateries, eclectic shops, and historic buildings, too.

• Things To Do: D&H Canal Museum/Canal Trail; Mohonk Preserve Trails; Woodstock Farm Sanctuary; Stone Ridge Orchard
• Stay The Night: Minnewaska Lodge (Gardiner); Hasbrouck House (Stone Ridge)
• Wine & Dine: The Spy Social Eatery & Bar; Hash; Ollie’s Pizza

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Five Northeastern Gravel Biking Destinations

By Matt Morris ,

Courtesy of AMC Maine Woods Gravel Adventure Field Guide, produced in partnership with the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation.

Have you heard the good news about gravel?   

Gravel bikes combine the lighter materials used in road bikes with designs that help riders get off the pavement with confidence. These bikes are built for a bit of everything. Commute on pot-holed city roads on Friday. Go deep in the forest on a dirt road on Saturday.   

Versatility is just one reason gravel biking has exploded in popularity . Rides with fewer cars are one reason. A welcoming, inclusive community is another. Ultimately, it’s another great way to connect, explore, and Be Outdoors.   

The AMC region is blessed with vast networks of unpaved roads and rideable trails—many just a short trip from urban areas. Ready to get in on the fun? Check with your local AMC Chapter for group rides . Here are some of our favorite places to explore on two wheels.  

AMC Maine Woods, Maine    

East Coast gravel riders typically need to put their routes together out of a patchwork of dirt and paved roads. Not so in Maine’s North Woods. AMC has protected 114,00 acres in the area as part of its Maine Woods Initiative , including 330 miles of gravel roads. All of them are open to the public for recreation.   

Whether you’re brand new to the sport or an experienced rider, there’s a place for you here. We’ve partnered with Gravel Adventure Field Guide and the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation for a book of maps, stories, and top routes. Ride between AMC’s three lodges and cabins , or mix in a night at a campground for a multi-day bikepacking adventure.  

For more information, check out AMC’s Lodge-Lodge Gravel Biking in the Maine Woods Itinerary . Then plan a trip to Maine !  

Gravel roads near Craftsbury, VT. Sterling College/Flickr Commons.

Northeast Kingdom, Vermont    

In the far northeastern corner of Vermont, tucked between the Green Mountains and Connecticut River, lies the “Northeast Kingdom.” Here you’ll find quaint towns, dense forests, and open meadows. Also gravel, lots of gravel.    

In a three-county area of just over 2,000 square miles, there are more than 1,000 miles of gravel roads . So many options, it’s hard to know where to begin. The crushed stone Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, meanwhile, crosses nearly the entire length of the state .   

Ashokan Reservoir. Jonathan Ang/Flickr Commons.

The Catskills, New York    

Far enough from New York City to feel like a different planet. Close enough to take a commuter train to Grand Central. Loved by locals and visitors alike, there is no place like the Catskills—and no better way to experience it than on a gravel bike.   

The Catskill Scenic Trail , a converted railroad along the Delaware River, is a great introduction. Follow the trail through small towns and open fields with views of the nearby mountains. Other options include the Ashokan Rail Trail and the rural roads surrounding Minnewaska State Park Preserve .  

Cut the commute from the city and get a cabin at the AMC Harriman Outdoor Center .     

The C&O Canal. Mike Maguire/Flickr Commons.

Washington D.C.    

Can a major city be a gravel biking destination? You bet! Our nation’s capital is home to more than just marble monuments. Natural spaces dot the city and its surrounding area.   

D.C’s cycling crown jewel is the C&O Canal . This 184-mile dirt towpath runs from the District’s swanky Georgetown neighborhood to the small city of Cumberland, in Maryland’s Allegheny Mountains. The towpath follows the Potomac River past flowing whitewater , historic sites, and an intersection with the Appalachian Trail. Bikepack and stay at regularly-spaced campsites, or keep it simple with an out-and-back.  

Washington D.C. is also a short drive from the unpaved roads of Virginia’s Loudoun County and a couple of hours to endless gravel around Shenandoah National Park .  

Monongahela National Forest. John Brighenti/Flickr Commons.

Greenbrier County, West Virginia     

The Allegheny Highlands are a slice of mountains and green space from the Pennsylvania border with New York through West Virginia. At its southern end is Greenbrier County.   

Here, rolling hills and lush forests are protected from development by the Monongahela National Forest . An unpaved Forest Service Road or historic rail trail is never far. A highlight is the 78-mile Greenbrier River Trail , West Virginia’s longest rail trail. With a local Off-Road Bicycling Association and both youth and adult gravel racing teams, the community around the trail is also strong. Is it “ Almost Heaven ” for gravel biking? We’ll let you decide.   

Greenbrier County is a great springboard to further adventures in the region. Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains are to the south and east. Head north to see the rest of the Monongahela—including gravel destinations like Spruce Knob, the state’s highest point.  

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Bratsk city, Russia

The city of Irkutsk oblast .

Bratsk - Overview

Bratsk is a city in Russia located in the north-west of the Irkutsk region, in the center of Angarsky mountain-ridge. It stands on the shores of the Bratsk and Ust-Ilim reservoirs formed on the Angara River.

Today, this city, formed in 1956 due to the construction of Bratsk hydro power station, is an agglomeration of dispersed residential areas separated by forests and water areas. Residential areas, different in size, are former settlements constructed near industrial enterprises.

The population of Bratsk is about 222,500 (2022), the area - 428 sq. km.

The phone code - +7 3953, the postal codes - 665700-665783.

Bratsk city flag

Bratsk city coat of arms.

Bratsk city map, Russia

History of bratsk.

In 1631, a group of 40 Cossacks headed by Panteley Demidov Penda founded a small fortress on the Angara River, in the mouth of the Oka River, and called it Bratsky ostrog. The name is derived by assimilating “Buryaty” (local native people) into “braty”, that is “bratya” (brothers).

When the fortress lost its military importance, the settlement received the name Bratsko-Ostrozhnoye, sometimes simply Bratskoye, later Bratsk.

The present city was formed due to the construction of Bratsk power station, to the north of the old settlement of Bratsk which was flooded by waters of the reservoir.

On July 15, 1955, the construction of Bratsk hydro power station and the city of Bratsk was announced as an All-Union construction. On July 26, 1961, the reservoir began to be filled with water. September 1, 1961, is considered the date of the Bratsk Sea coming into being.

Bratsk views

Bratsk Hydropower Station

Author: Sergeev Vitaliy

Lenin Square in Bratsk

Author: Vitaliy Alt

Bratsk street

Bratsk - Features

The city was formed from several settlements. Today, it consists of several districts located pretty far away from each other. The residential districts were built around preserved taiga forests. The length of the city along the shore of the reservoir is about 65 km. The distance to Irkutsk is 983 km by railway, and 618 km by highway.

The climate is continental with long severe winter (up to minus 35-40 degrees Celsius) and short hot summers (up to plus 25-30 degrees C). The heating season lasts 246 days. The average temperature in January is 22.7 degrees C below zero, in July - plus 18-19 degrees C. Despite the harsh climate, Bratsk economic and geographical location is quite favorable.

Bratsk plays a role of an important support base in the development of the northern regions of Eastern Siberia and the Far East. The city is located at the intersection of important communications connecting the European and Asian continents with the north of Eastern Siberia and Yakutia. This is the basis for its economic, social and cultural development.

Bratsk is one of the largest industrial centers in the region and Eastern Siberia: metallurgy; pulp, timber mass and carton producing; timber processing and wood working; chemical and food industries. It has access to electricity generated by Bratsk power station, unlimited water resources, navigable and timber-rafting ways, etc. Also, private gold miners working on the Angara tributaries and pearl divers (the Oka River) play significant role in the local economy.

Bratsk airport offers flights to Irkutsk, Krasnoyarsk, Novosibirsk, Moscow, Tyumen, Yakutsk. The city is connected by railway lines with central Russia, Siberia, Yakutia, Transbaikalia, the Far East.

One of the essential problems of present Bratsk is an adverse environment. The main sources of pollution are the enterprises of ferrous metallurgy, timber processing, energy, transport.

60 km east of Bratsk, there is a climatic resort “Bratsk seaside” located on the coast of the Bratsk reservoir. Patients with diseases of the circulatory and nervous systems are treated there.

Museums of Bratsk

• “Angara Village” - an architectural and ethnographical open-air museum (Komsomolskaya Street, 38),
• Bratsk museum of Angara assimilation history (Komsomolskaya Street, 38),
• The museum of Bratsk city and power station history (Gidrostroiteley Street, 54),
• The museum of history of political exile (Parkovaya Street, 3),
• Bratsk art exhibition hall (Komsomolskaya Street, 77).

Bratsk city of Russia photos

Bratsk places.

Monument to Pushkin in Bratsk

Hotel in Bratsk

Author: Isaev S.V.

Bratsk Palace of Arts

Author: Yulia Zolotovskaya

Pictures of Bratsk

Fountain in Bratsk

Church of the Dormition in Bratsk

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