Things to do in the Catskills: Top 23 Most Unique Spots

Ever flip through vacation pics and think, “That’s nowhere near as pretty as in person”?

Been there.

But there’s a place where every snapshot looks picture-perfect. That’s the Catskills. After months wandering its trails, waterfalls, and secret lookouts, I’ve rounded up the most camera-ready spots. Plus, there’s a free custom map of the best things to do in the Catskills, just for you. Most tourists don’t catch these hidden gems—we’ve got you covered!

Ready to explore the best things to do in the Catskill Mountains? Let’s get into it:

Quick hits

Here’s the skinny on what makes the Catskills unforgettable:

• Nature on repeat: Thunderous waterfalls, crisp mountain air, wide-open views.
• Trail heaven: From lazy strolls to pump-your-legs hikes.
• Culture meets calories: Historic fire towers, farm‑fresh eats, artsy towns.
• Seasons a-plenty: Blooms in spring, sunshine in summer, a blaze of fall colors—and winter charm.
• Charming villages: Cozy shops, quirky cafés, and local history at every turn.

  Map design by Stanton House Inn  with elements from Flaticon

 

A Brief History of the Catskill Mountains

Way, way back—like 350 million years ago—the Catskills weren’t even mountains. Instead, a giant, lazy river delta soaked up mud and sand from ancient peaks that don’t even exist anymore. Over time, all that gunk piled up, and thanks to a few tectonic gymnastics and some pushy glaciers, we got the rolling highlands we know today. Glaciers carved out those valleys and slipped in those scenic Upstate New York lakes while they were at it. They also stripped, out layers of coal deposits, like those in Pennsylvania.

Bummer for the local energy industry!

Early History & Colonization

Long before Europeans arrived, the Mohican and Munsee tribes were already familiar with the area. They hunted here, held sacred rituals, and moved with the seasons. But they didn’t stick around for good—too rocky to grow decent crops, so they never settled in large numbers.

Then in 1609, along came the Half Moon, sailing up the Hudson. They kicked off the age of “Hey, this land looks nice—let’s take it.” The Europeans were after beaver pelts and gold, but ended up settling for land deals and power plays. By the early 1700s, people like Johannes Hardenbergh and Jacob Rutsen were playing colonial Monopoly. They scooped up huge tracts of land with a little help from a famously crooked governor. Meanwhile, local farmers and tribes didn’t get much of a say.

As was always the case back then.

Colonial & Revolutionary Era

As the 1770s rolled around, the Revolution heated up. The Catskills became a bit of a pressure cooker. Big landowners like the Livingstons and Hardenberghs said all the right things to stay in the Crown’s good graces. And yet, local tenant farmers were tired of the status quo. Things boiled over, and when the British burned Kingston, any love for the redcoats went up in smoke. The region threw in with the Patriots from then on.

The Borscht Belt

Skip ahead to the 1900s, and the Catskills had a whole new vibe: the Borscht Belt.

Jewish families from the city turned these hills into their summer playground, with:

• Dance halls
• Comedians
• And endless bowls of matzo ball soup

“Dirty Dancing” was the scene—minus the Hollywood polish. At its peak, there were around 500 resorts. But once plane tickets got cheap and anti-Semitic barriers came down, the heyday passed. Still, if you drive through places like Liberty or Monticello today, you’ll see echoes of that era in the old bungalow colonies and summer camps that still hum with life every season.

The Best Things to do in the Catskills Mountains

The Catskills can feel like a movie, with you as the main character:

• Camera in hand
• Boots laced
• And chasing waterfalls and mountaintop views

Read on for the can’t-miss spots:

Discover the Peaks of the Catskills

The Catskill Mountains call to you. Big names like:

• Slide
• Hunter
• Black Dome
• Panther
• And Balsam Lake

Rise up like old legends. Slide Mountain is the tallest of the bunch, and hiking it packs in: switchbacks, forest shade, and summit views that go on forever.

Hunter Mountain and Its Skyride

Hunter Mountain pulls double duty. In summer, you’ve got the Kaatskill Flyer—a skyride that lifts you 3,200 feet up for views that touch the clouds. If you’re up for it, hike to the fire tower at the summit for a 360° reward. And when winter rolls in, Hunter becomes one of the best ski resorts near NYC with:

• 50+ ski trails
• Powdery runs
• And après-ski chatter at every lift line

Not a fan of snow? Try the zip line in summer—it’s the longest and highest in North America. And it’s wild.

Thomas Cole National Historic Site

The Catskills are also the birthplace of American landscape art. Thomas Cole, inventor of the Hudson River School, lived and painted here. His house in Catskill is now a museum you can wander through. The grounds come complete with gardens, art, and a glimpse into how these mountains inspired a whole movement.

And don’t miss the Hudson River School Art Trail. It visits the actual spots where Cole and friends set up their easels.

Kaaterskill Falls

Next up—Kaaterskill Falls. You’ve seen it on Instagram, postcards, maybe even fridge magnets. Buthere’s a secret spot most folks miss, and it’ll make your photos look like they belong in a travel magazine. I stumbled onto it one crisp October afternoon. The light came slanting through the trees around 4 p.m., turning everything gold. I actually gasped—out loud, like a cartoon character.

Here’s the scene: a quiet rock ledge just off the main trail, the double-decker falls thundering behind you, mist rising like nature’s own fog machine. Want the best chance of having it to yourself? Aim for a Tuesday or Wednesday. There’s something magical about standing there without a crowd, just you, the sound of rushing water, and maybe a bird or two minding its business.

Now, the basics:

The falls drop a whopping 260 feet—taller than Niagara, if you’re counting. The trails getting there are pure Catskills: forested, winding, and full of charm. If you’re in a hurry, the Laurel House Trail is your best bet—quick and scenic.

But watch your step. Mud and slick rocks are part of the deal, so don’t skimp on footwear. And yes, do that full-body tick check after. This is upstate, not uptown.

When you’re done, swing by one of the cafés in Haines Falls for a bite. Nothing tastes better than a sandwich after a waterfall hike.

Overlook Mountain Tower

This one’s a bit of a leg workout, but it’s worth it. The hike up Overlook Mountain is 2.5 miles of steady climbing, and it ends at a towering old fire tower that gives you the kind of view that makes you forget how winded you are.

Last summer, we hit the trail hoping for a nice sunset. And what we got was a sky on fire and a valley completely blanketed in clouds. It didn’t look real. And the best part? Sharing that view with someone you care about. It’s the kind of moment you remember long after your legs stop burning.

Bring a little picnic if you can, and stay past the peak crowd. The peace that settles over the mountaintop as dusk rolls in is something else. And if you’re into astrophotography, this place is gold. On a clear night, the stars show up in full force—no city glow to drown them out.

Rip Van Winkle Bridge

Next, a detour with a view: the Rip Van Winkle Bridge. This isn’t just a way to get from Catskill to Hudson—it’s a scenic experience in itself. As you drive (or walk) across, the river stretches out below you, the Catskills roll off in the distance, and the light shifts in a way that makes you want to pull over and just stare.

Named after the famously sleepy character from Washington Irving’s story, the bridge ties together centuries of Hudson Valley lore.

Roadside Americana

Each of America’s best road trips has to have a little weird—and the Catskills don’t disappoint. The Catskill region has quirky stops in spades.

Start with a guy named Gnome Chomsky. No, not the linguist—this one’s 13-and-a-half feet tall and made of fiberglass. You’ll find him standing proud at Kelder’s Farm in Kerhonkson, once the tallest gnome in the world, now ranked third (still, not bad). The farm itself is part petting zoo, part produce market, and part mini-golf course. Because visitors and locals alike love a good tourist trap.

Just down the road, in Mount Tremper, you’ll find something that sounds made-up but isn’t: the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope. Seriously. It’s tucked inside a silo at the Emerson Resort and Spa and stretches a whopping 60 feet high. Step inside and you’re treated to a trippy, immersive show of colors and shapes—sort of like being inside a lava lamp that went to art school. It’s free for resort guests, and open to everyone else for a small fee.

OPUS 40

To discover something jaw-dropping that doesn’t need any neon lights, head to Saugerties. That’s where you’ll find Opus 40, a sprawling sculpture park carved into an old quarry by one man—Harvey Fite. He spent nearly four decades shaping stone into sweeping terraces, ramps, and pools—all without mortar. At the center stands a 9-ton monolith, towering over a maze of handcrafted paths. Some folks call this spot on the National Register of Historic Places the “Stonehenge of North America,” and it fits. Bring good shoes, a curious spirit, and maybe someone to hold your hand while you explore—it’s as romantic as it is surreal.

Rip Van Winkle Trail & Monument

If you’re into legends, the Catskills have a classic: Rip Van Winkle. Washington Irving’s sleepy character receives honors all over the region, especially on Hunter Mountain. There, you can meet a statue of Rip himself. It’s a short hike (or sky ride) to get there, and the views alone are worth it. Along the trail, you’ll find signs, sculptures, and quiet spots that nod to Rip’s long nap and the magical setting that inspired it.

Nearby in Tannersville, don’t miss the mural of Rip stretched out on the side of an antique shop. It’s the kind of thing that makes you smile, even if you don’t know the story.

Woodstock Music Festival Site

First, we need to clear up a common myth: the legendary 1969 Woodstock festival didn’t happen in Woodstock. It was in Bethel, a few towns over. But wherever you stand on the map, the spirit of Woodstock still echoes through the hills. Nearly half a million people showed up to Max Yasgur’s farm that August, ready for music, mud, and a little rebellion. Today, the site is home to a museum where you can relive those three days of peace, love, and serious guitar solos. Don some tie-dye, walk the grounds, and feel the vibes. (And yes, we’re all pretending the ’90s reboot didn’t happen.)

Karma Triyama Dharmachakra Monastery

Finally, something a little more serene. High on the hillside in Woodstock sits the Karma Triyana Dharmachakra Monastery, a peaceful refuge of Tibetan Buddhist tradition. It’s the North American seat of the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa. Whether you come to meditate, browse the library, or admire the stunning architecture, it’s worth the visit. The art is intricate, the energy is calm, and even the silence feels sacred. Weekly tours are open to the public, and the monastery runs regular programs throughout the year.

Charming Towns and Quaint Villages in the Catskills Mountains

Look, not every great photo needs to be snapped from a mountaintop. Sometimes the real magic happens in the little towns tucked amidst the trees—places where:

• Old buildings lean slightly
• The river curves just right
• And the light hits in a way that makes even a lamppost feel cinematic

Our go-to spot? Woodstock. There’s this pedestrian bridge just outside downtown that catches the whole town in the golden hour glow. You get reflections in the water, the mountains in the background, and that perfect streetlamp flicker as the sun dips. It’s cozy, romantic, and kind of addictive. We go every season just to watch it change—snow, blossoms, fall leaves, summer haze. It’s never the same shot twice.

Livingston Manor

Livingston Manor feels like a town built on stories—and maybe a little bit of trout. It’s one of those places where you show up for a weekend and start wondering what it would take to move there. The American fly fishing culture runs deep, as the Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum anchors the scene. Even if you’ve never touched a fishing rod, the place has charm.

Every June, one of New York’s best small towns throws the Trout Parade, which is exactly what it sounds like:

• Locals dressed like fish
• Floats shaped like rivers
• Brass bands
• Bubbles
• And pure joy

It’s silly, creative, and 100% worth seeing.

For food and rest, you’ve got gems like The Arnold House and The DeBruce—part of the town’s stylish comeback, thanks in part to hospitality whiz Sims Foster. The Arnold House is one of the best pet-friendly getaways in the Catskill region, by the way. Add in Upward Brewing and The Outside Institute, where you can go on guided foraging walks or try your hand at botanical cocktails, and you’ve got a town that knows how to mix nature and culture just right.

Woodstock

The name still rings with flower power. Woodstock may not have hosted the actual 1969 festival (that was Bethel), but the spirit is alive and well. Attractions in Woodstock, NY hum with creative energy:

• Art galleries
• Indie music venues
• Funky cafés
• And old (and young) hippies dancing or lazing in public spaces

You can wander the shops, catch a live show, or just sit on a bench and people-watch—it’s a live tour of bohemian Americana. And even if you’re not chasing nostalgia, there’s something deeply calming about being in a town that’s completely at ease with itself.

Tannersville

The “painted village in the sky,” Tannersville is always worth a pitstop. The old 19th-century buildings are decked out in bold colors, giving the town a candy-box charm. In winter, it’s the gateway to Hunter Mountain for skiing and tubing. And in warmer months, it’s the perfect lunch stop between hikes.

The antique shops here are a treasure hunt—dusty corners, hidden gems, and the occasional strange-but-perfect souvenir. The town has some of the best antiquing in New York State, for real. Don’t skip the Catskill Mountain Country Store & Restaurant. It’s a little slice of comfort, whether you’re grabbing a hearty breakfast or browsing the shelves for maple syrup and hand-knit socks.

Exploring the hiking trails: outdoor activities galore

If you think the Catskills are just for sipping cider and strolling art galleries, think again. This place is an outdoor playground, and you’ve got to experience it for yourself.

Take Greene County, for example—it’s got over 120 miles of trails. You can hike, bike, or even ride a horse through them. And if you’ve never seen a mountain from horseback, you’re missing out—it’s like watching a movie in slow motion, but better.

Sitting on a thousand pounds of flighty muscle on a mountain trail not thrilling enough? You’ve got plenty of options:

• Zip-lining above the treetops at Hunter Mountain
• Rock climbing in the Shawangunks
• Whitewater rafting down Esopus Creek

Over at Windham Mountain Adventure Park, things get wild in a family-friendly way. Fly through the air on a zipline or whoosh around a mountain coaster track. Kids bounce on the bungee trampoline while you sneak away for one of the best Catskills yoga retreats—zen, with mountain views.

The Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum is perched right by Willowemoc Creek in Livingston Manor. Whether you’re an old pro with a tackle box or just curious about casting a line, this is the place to learn and unwind.

And then there’s the water. The Delaware River runs along the edge of the Catskills like a built-in waterpark. You can float down it with Lander’s River Trips—just pack sunscreen, wear solid shoes, and load up a cooler with snacks and drinks. Drifting past riverbanks on a hot day is as good as it gets.

Need to cool off? Hike three miles into Lake Awosting—it’s quiet, clear, and worth every step. Or brave the ice-cold waters of Peekamoose Blue Hole, which feels like jumping into a melted snowbank. For a bit more civilization, Lake Superior State Park hosts boat rentals and space to stretch out.

And if wheels are more your speed, hop on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. It runs over 22 miles through Ulster County along an old railway line. You’ll pass fields, forests, maybe a few deer. Be on the lookout for a bridge that starred in A Quiet Place. (The movie with John Krasinski and Emily Blunt.)

Cultural Gems among the rolling hills

But don’t think it’s all just sweat and bug spray. The Catskills do culture, too—just in their own relaxed, outdoorsy kind of way.

Start with the Forestburgh Playhouse. This rustic barn has both creaky floorboards and live theater so good you forget you’re in the woods. They’ve got musicals, dramas, and all the charm of a Broadway show sans city traffic.

Then there’s the Woodstock Artists Association & Museum. This isn’t just a place to look at paintings—it’s a whole vibe. Local artists pour their hearts out here, and whether you’re into abstracts or landscapes, something will strike you.

And of course, no cultural tour of the Catskills is complete without the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. This is where Woodstock happened, and the spirit (and vibrant arts scene) is still alive. You can catch a concert under the stars. Or wander the museum that tells the story of those legendary three days of peace, love, and very muddy fields. Or do both, of course.

Shopping in the Catskills

The Catskills might be better known for trails than tags, but don’t let that fool you. The Catskill region is a trove for shoppers with a good eye and a little patience. Every town has a main street packed with charm. You’ll find everything from vintage Pyrex to handmade candles to that one-of-a-kind item you didn’t know you needed until you saw it in a dusty corner.

Antique lovers, this is your moment. You can go full retro at the Antiques Barn in New Paltz, where fair prices and deep digging go hand in hand. Over in Roscoe, Taylor + Ace has a more curated vibe—think mid-century housewares and hip old-school finds that feel cool without trying too hard.

And then there’s Homer and Langley’s Mystery Spot in Phoenicia. It’s weird, wonderful, and packed to the gills with vintage records, clothing, books, and what can only be described as “interesting decor.” It’s a nod to the Collyer Brothers, those legendary New York hoarders—except here, the hoarding is intentional and delightful. Pro tip: bring cash, and don’t be shy about haggling.

Food, Drink, & Dining in the Catskills

If the Catskills had a love language, it would be farm-to-table. Local farms and creative chefs are the power couple here. They turn fresh ingredients into plates both comforting and kinda fancy.

Want to treat yourself? Head to The DeBruce or Peekamoose—both set in charming old buildings, both known for menus that change with the season. Think wild mushrooms, locally raised meat, and desserts that make you consider ordering two.

On the cozier side, there’s the Red Line Diner in Fishkill. Family-owned, no fuss, and yes—they really do serve Shrimp Crêpes and Rack of Lamb alongside your standard burger and fries.

Farms are part of the flavor too. At Jenkins-Lueken Orchard, you can pick your own apples, berries, or pumpkins; depending on the season. On Sunday mornings, head to the Callicoon Farmers’ Market. It’s a local favorite, with fresh produce, meats, wines, and pastries all lined up for the taking. And if you swing by Main Street Farm in Livingston Manor, you’ll find shelves stocked with trout, cider, honey, and everything else you’ll want to smuggle home.

Now for lovers of craft beers: there’s no shortage of local breweries and cideries. Start with Catskill Brewing Company, then make your way to Roscoe Beer Co., Subversive Malting + Brewing, and Upward Brewing, which also happens to have great views. West Kill Brewing offers fresh air and fresh pours in equal measure. Even if you’re car-free, Russian Mule Brewery in Claryville is accessible and worth the trip.

The Best Time to Visit the Catskills Mountains

The Catskills don’t really have a bad season—it just depends on what kind of adventure you’re after.

In summer, it’s all about sunshine and long days. Hiking, swimming, fishing, and live outdoor music at places like Bethel Woods set the tone. You can picnic by a lake, paddle a canoe, and catch a concert—all in one day.

Fall? Magic. The fall foliage near NYC here is straight out of a painting—crimson, gold, amber, and everything in between. Leaf peeping in the Hudson Valley becomes a full-time job, and you’ll want to clock in early. It’s one of the best fall getaways from New York City, no contest.

When winter rolls around, things shift to cozy mode. Snow blankets the hills, and skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and sledding take center stage. Belleayre Mountain is a favorite for slopes, and yes, you can even go horseback riding through the snow. It’s like a holiday card, only warmer (thanks to layers).

Directions to the Catskills from Greenwich, CT (& NYC)

So you’re ready to escape the daily grind and head for the hills—good choice. From Greenwich, CT, getting to the Catskills is easier than convincing your friends to go on a last-minute road trip.

Here’s your route:

• Hop on I-95 South
• Merge onto I-287 West
• Slide onto I-684 North via exit 9A
• Then jump on I-84 West (exit 9E)
• Merge onto NY-17 West (exit 4W) and cruise straight into Catskills country

Total drive time? Just over two hours. That’s less time than it takes to find parking in Manhattan on a Saturday.

Coming from NYC? Same deal. Just head north on I-87, and you’ll be in the land of mountains and maple syrup in about two hours, give or take some weekend traffic. Bonus: the drive itself is full of rolling hills, charming roadside stops, and enough scenery to make you forget you’re only a few zip codes from the city.

Hotels, Inns, and Places to Stay in the Catskills

The Catskills are in the midst of a Dirty Dancing-like revival. Today’s spots cater to hipster Millennials rather than large family celebrations. Yet, the core experience remains unchanged. Many weekend getaways in the Catskills offer everything under one roof, sort of: lodging, dining, and entertainment.

You might not stay the night, but it’s worth exploring these places. Their on-site restaurants, trendy bars, and stylish lobbies are central to the hotel resurgence.

And the caveat about everything being under one roof is that a few of these options are more rustic fare.

Hotels & Lodges

If you’re looking for the “all-in-one” experience—think comfy beds, solid food, and design so nice you’ll want to take photos of the bathroom—start with these:

• Hotel Mountain Brook has that cozy-lodge-meets-Victorian vibe, with big windows perfect for leaf peeping or snow watching.
• Emerson Resort & Spa is your go-to for massages, relaxation, and an on-site kaleidoscope the size of a silo.
• Woodstock Way Hotel brings that boutique, boho energy—with rooms that feel like a well-curated Pinterest board.
• The Graham & Co. in Phoenicia nails the simple-but-stylish look. Bonus: it’s walking distance to great food and mountain air.
• The Roxbury Motel is straight-up fun, with themed rooms that’ll make you feel like a kid again (a very stylish kid).
• The Urban Cowboy Lodge adds some antlers, ikat pillows, and outdoor tubs to the mix. Think rustic chic, not roughing it.

Want something grander? Mohonk Mountain Resort is your castle in the clouds. A Victorian retreat with 40,000 acres of forest, you’ll feel you accidentally time-traveled to the 19th century—and are totally okay with it.

Camping, glamping and otherwise

Want to sleep with crickets instead of sound machines? The Catskills are packed with dreamy campgrounds and next-level glamping options.

At Devil’s Tombstone, you’ll find classic forest camping with a touch of spooky history. Once feared as the devil’s backyard, now it’s just a solid place to pitch a tent and make s’mores under the stars.

Gather Greene is the exact opposite of roughing it. Tiny wood cabins with giant windows are all set on a former dairy farm. You get heat, AC, and a front-row seat to nature—including meteor showers if you come during the Perseids (late July to August). Bring snacks, wine, and someone to gasp with when the sky lights up.

Practical Tips

Before we close the book on this guide, here are a few simple tricks to make your Catskills trip a breeze—and your photos pop.

First off: timing is everything. You could have the best view in the world, but if the lighting’s off, it’ll look like a screensaver from 2006. Plan your key shots around golden hour—the first hour after sunrise or before sunset. That’s when the light gets all soft and glowy, and suddenly every rock and tree looks poetic.

Next, don’t fear bad weather. I know—rain doesn’t sound fun. But some of our best photos came from days with fog, drizzle, or stormy skies. Fog wraps the landscape in mystery, and dark clouds bring drama you just can’t fake.

Pack smart. Weather in the Catskills changes its mind like a teenager—sunny one minute, chilly the next. Bring layers, keep water on hand, and for those deeper hikes, download offline maps. You’ll thank yourself when your phone turns into a brick and you still know where you’re going.

And finally—leave no trace. These places are special because they’ve stayed wild and clean. Pack out your trash, stick to marked trails, and treat every spot like it’s your own backyard. That way, the next adventurer can have their jaw drop just like you did.

More Places to Explore Near the Catskills

Once you’ve had your fill of mountaintop views and waterfall hikes, there’s plenty more just beyond the borders of the Catskills. Here are a few favorites nearby in the Hudson Valley that are worth a side trip or even a whole weekend.

Here are some places you can explore in New York State near the Catskills, including nearby farms.

New Paltz, NY

A short drive from the mountains, a New Paltz day trip is a mix of history, college town energy, and outdoor beauty. You’ve got historic homes, great food, Hudson Valley hiking trails, and just enough shops to do some damage (to your wallet, not the town).

Kingston, New York

Kingston’s got grit and charm in equal measure. It’s one of those Hudson Valley cities where you can wander from an art gallery into a brewery, then grab tacos from a food truck and catch a live band—all within a few blocks. Kingston, NY, has a ton of things to do that feel cool without trying too hard.

Hudson, NY

Hudson is like if Brooklyn moved upstate, took a deep breath, and decided to chill. The art scene is thriving, the restaurants are legit, and the streets are a tour of old buildings and river views. If you like browsing galleries and sipping something fancy in a sunny café, the list of the best things to do in Hudson, New York is yours to discover.

Tl;dr

We’ve barely scratched the surface of why the Catskills are a photographer’s dream. Every stop on this list brings something unique to the table—towering peaks, hidden waterfalls, quirky roadside gems—but what ties them all together is that spark. That moment when you look around and think, “Wow, this is special.”

To help you plan your own adventure, we’ve put together something just for you: a free Catskills Visitor’s Guide. Inside, you’ll find a custom map with all the spots we mentioned—and a few bonus ones we didn’t have room for. We’ve also added the best times to visit each location, where to park, and how tough the hikes are.

If you enjoyed this virtual tour of the Catskills’ most photogenic places, go ahead and drop your favorite Catskills photo spots in the comments. We’re always on the lookout for the next hidden gem.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is so special about the Catskill mountains?

With 98 peaks soaring over 3,000 feet, the Catskills are the wild and wonderful backyard of New York State. It’s where outdoor lovers find their fix, and peaceful moments find you when you’re least expecting them.

Where are the Catskills?

The Catskills sit in southeastern New York, just about 100 miles north of NYC. They’re west of the Hudson River, mostly in Greene and Ulster counties. They’re close enough for a weekend getaway, but far enough to feel like another world.

Why did people stop going to the Catskills?

Back in the day, the Catskills were summer central. But times changed—cheap flights and evolving social norms meant fewer folks needed the escape. The crowds thinned, but the beauty stayed. Now, it’s making a quiet comeback.

Why are the Catskills not considered true mountains?

Technically speaking, the Catskills aren’t formed by crust-pushing tectonics like the Rockies. They’re actually an uplifted plateau that’s been carved out by rivers and glaciers. Still feels like a mountain when you’re climbing it.

What is the tallest peak in the Catskills?

That title goes to Slide Mountain—topping out at 4,182 feet. It’s a solid climb and offers one of the best summit views around.

 

Updated and republished: June 23, 2025