10 Things to Do in the Catskills

You can hike to spectacular Kaaterskill Falls, climb Overlook Mountain’s historic fire tower, and explore over 70 miles of trails at Mohonk Preserve. Drive scenic byways during peak fall foliage, experience Woodstock’s vibrant art scene, and visit Thomas Cole’s historic home. Winter brings excellent skiing at Hunter and Windham mountains, while Bethel Woods offers concerts on the original Woodstock site. Don’t miss Sullivan County’s farm-to-table restaurants for authentic local flavors and discover why this region continues enthralling visitors year-round.

Hike to Kaaterskill Falls for New York’s Most Impressive Waterfall

When you’re looking for New York’s most spectacular waterfall without leaving the state, Kaaterskill Falls delivers with its impressive 231-260 foot cascade that’ll leave you questioning why you haven’t visited sooner.

You’ll tackle a manageable 1.4-mile roundtrip hike from Laurel House Road parking area, following the yellow-blazed trail through Kaaterskill Wild Forest.

The two-tiered waterfall drops 167 feet at the upper tier and 64 feet at the lower, creating a dramatic natural amphitheater.

You can view from the safe platform at the top or descend to the base for an up-close experience with the plunge pool. The descent involves over 300 feet of elevation change, so ensure all group members are physically prepared for the challenging terrain.

Stay on marked trails and respect safety barriers—the rocks are dangerously slippery near both viewpoints.

Climb Overlook Mountain to Explore Fire Tower and Hotel Ruins

While most Catskills hikes reward you with natural beauty, Overlook Mountain’s 5-mile roundtrip trail delivers a fascinating mix of history and panoramic views that’ll make the moderate climb worth every step.

You’ll discover two remarkable historical sites at the summit. The 60-foot fire tower, originally built in 1917 and relocated here in 1950, reopened to the public in 1999 after nearly two decades of closure. Visit between Memorial Day and Columbus Day when volunteer interpreters staff the cab from 10 AM to 4 PM. This tower is part of the Catskill Fire Tower Challenge, where hikers can visit all six participating towers throughout the year to earn commemorative prizes.

The concrete ruins of the Mountain House tell an equally compelling story. This former 300-room hotel, rebuilt three times between 1833 and 1917, attracted tuberculosis patients seeking mountain air cures. The final iteration burned down in 1921, leaving these haunting remnants.

Drive the Scenic Byways During Peak Foliage Season

Though the Catskills offer stunning scenery year-round, nothing beats cruising these mountain byways when autumn transforms the landscape into a painter’s palette of reds, golds, and oranges. Plan your drive for late September through mid-October when peak colors typically emerge, starting at higher elevations before cascading into valleys.

The 52-mile Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway along Route 28 delivers spectacular mountain ridgelines and rolling farmlands.

For dramatic clove scenery and waterfalls, take the Mountain Cloves Scenic Byway on Route 23A.

The Upper Delaware Scenic Byway offers stunning river gorge views along its 70-mile stretch.

Check weekly foliage reports from “I LOVE NY” before departing, as peak timing varies annually. The byway is easily accessible from New York City, located just 2 hours from the metropolitan area.

Stop at farm stands for fresh cider and local produce to enhance your leaf-peeping adventure.

Experience Woodstock’s Art Scene Beyond the Festival Legacy

Long before the famous 1969 festival put Woodstock on the map, this mountain town had already established itself as a thriving artist colony—and that creative energy continues to flourish today.

You’ll find three main institutions anchoring the scene: the Woodstock Artists Association & Museum (WAAM), featuring rotating exhibitions and national shows; the Woodstock School of Art with its gallery showcasing instructor and student work; and Byrdcliffe Guild, one of America’s oldest artist colonies.

Don’t miss Byrdcliffe’s free Open Studio events on June 14, July 19, August 23, and September 27, where you can visit working artists in their historic cottage studios. The Guild’s current exhibition showcases work from their 2024 Artists-in-Residence participants, featuring paintings, prints, photographs, sculptures, and compositions that reflect the artists’ inspiration from their residency experience.

WAAM’s exhibitions like “Far & Wide National” and the School of Art’s “In the Open Air” offer compelling glimpses into both contemporary and historical artistic traditions.

Ski Hunter or Windham Mountains for Catskills Winter Sports

When winter blankets the Catskills in snow, Hunter and Windham Mountains transform into the region’s premier ski destinations, each offering distinct experiences just 2-2.5 hours from Manhattan.

Hunter’s your choice for challenging terrain—67 trails with 45% advanced/expert runs and three freestyle parks create NYC’s weekend playground vibe. You’ll face bigger crowds but get superior snowmaking coverage across 320 acres. Hunter West stands out with its top expert terrain, featuring black diamonds, double black diamonds, and glade skiing for the most skilled skiers.

Windham suits families and mixed-ability groups better with 54 more forgiving trails and less congestion. Both mountains offer 1,600-foot verticals and mid-November through mid-April seasons thanks to extensive artificial snowmaking.

Hunter delivers that energetic après-ski scene, while Windham provides a quieter resort atmosphere. Consider weekday visits to dodge weekend crowds and save money on lift tickets.

Tube Down Esopus Creek From Phoenicia

For true whitewater thrills without the raft, you’ll find Class II rapids and 1-3 foot waves waiting on Esopus Creek near Phoenicia. This isn’t your typical lazy river float—expect strong currents, rocks, and waves that’ll flip your tube if you’re not ready.

The main run takes 1.5-2 hours from the put-in above town to the take-out below. You’ll need truck tire tubes (around $15/day), Coast Guard-approved life jackets, helmets, and sturdy water shoes.

Strong swimming skills are essential, with most operators recommending age 12 minimum. The operation has maintained an impressive safety record with over 30 years without fatalities.

Plan for two vehicles since you’ll need transportation between access points. Town Tinker historically provided tubes and shuttle service, though availability varies by season.

Scrapes and spills are common—come prepared for adventure.

Visit Thomas Cole’s Historic Home and Studios in Catskill

Nestled between the Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains, Thomas Cole’s historic home at Cedar Grove offers you a rare glimpse into the birthplace of America’s first major art movement.

You’ll explore the 1815 Federal-style house and reconstructed studios where Cole founded the Hudson River School of landscape painting.

Take the 50-minute guided tour from June through October to see Cole’s creative process, including his portable paint box and easels.

The grounds stay open daily from dawn to dusk for free self-guided exploration, making it budget-friendly year-round.

Don’t miss the panoramic mountain views from the porches—the same landscapes Cole painted. Remarkably, Cole’s famous student Frederic Edwin Church also lived at this very site for two years, adding another layer of artistic significance to your visit.

The visitor center’s orientation film provides helpful context about Cole’s conservation impact and artistic legacy.

Explore the Trails and Carriage Roads at Mohonk Preserve

After soaking up artistic inspiration at Thomas Cole’s historic home, you’ll want to experience the dramatic landscapes that captivated Hudson River School painters firsthand. Mohonk Preserve offers over 70 miles of carriage roads and trails across 8,000 acres of protected Shawangunk Ridge land, perfect for hiking, biking, and trail running.

Start with the iconic Overcliff/Undercliff Loop for sweeping views of the Wallkill Valley and Catskills. The historic carriage roads are wide, level, and well-maintained, making them accessible for all skill levels.

Spring Farm Trailhead provides easy access to Bonticou Crag’s “Million Dollar View,” while West Trapps connects to dramatic climbing cliffs. For a gentler introduction to the area, the new Foothills Loop begins at the Testimonial Gateway Trailhead and passes through historic farm fields with views of Shawangunk Ridge.

Five main trailheads offer different access points, and you can reach the preserve via Trailways bus or Ulster County’s weekend Nature Bus for budget-friendly transportation.

Take in a Concert at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

Music history comes alive at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, where you can catch world-class performances on the exact site of the legendary 1969 Woodstock festival. This 15,000-capacity outdoor amphitheater hosts nearly 300 events annually, featuring everything from rock and country to classical performances.

You’ll find budget-friendly lawn tickets starting in the $30s-$50s range, while reserved seating runs $50-$100+. Original Woodstock legends like Santana and Crosby, Stills & Nash have returned alongside modern acts like Van Halen and Zac Brown Band.

Don’t miss the Museum of Bethel Woods, which explores 1960s history and the iconic festival. The venue’s open seasonally from late spring through early fall, offering an unforgettable concert experience in the scenic Catskills. Since opening in 2006 with just nine shows, Bethel Woods has transformed into a major cultural center that bridges the gap between its historic past and contemporary entertainment.

Sample Farm-to-Table Dining in Sullivan County

Sullivan County’s farm-to-table scene transforms locally sourced ingredients into memorable meals that won’t break your budget. You’ll find standout options like The Kaatskeller in Livingston Manor, where wood-fired pizzas feature ingredients from specific local farms like Neversink Farm, served at generous portions for moderate prices.

Henning’s Local in Cochecton Center emphasizes “local comfort, crafted locally” with dishes like mocha-seared trout using ingredients from nearby farms and trout hatcheries. The restaurant offers flavor-packed dishes in a modern, rustic setting that showcases locally crafted flavors.

For upscale dining, Seminary Hill in Callicoon combines New Nordic-inspired cuisine with estate-grown apples and panoramic Delaware River Valley views.

The Homestead Restaurant at The Eldred Preserve reinterprets classic Catskills resort dishes with contemporary, locally sourced ingredients.

The Sum Up

You don’t need to break the bank to experience the Catskills’ best offerings. Pack your hiking boots, bring a picnic lunch, and hit the free trails for waterfall views and mountain vistas. Time your visit during shoulder seasons for cheaper lodging rates. Many outdoor activities won’t cost you anything beyond gas money. With a mix of free natural attractions and affordable local eats, you’ll create lasting memories without overspending.