Planning a trip to the Catskill Mountains and wondering what to do? Just two hours north of New York City, the Catskills offer a wide range of activities for every type of traveler. Greene County, a premier destination within the Catskills, boasts diverse attractions ranging from outdoor adventures like mountain biking and hiking to family-friendly activities and local culinary experiences. This article will guide you through the top things to do in the Catskill Mountains, ensuring you make the most of your visit.
Key Takeaways
The Catskills offer an exciting range of outdoor adventures, including hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining, perfect for all adventure levels, just two hours north of New York City!
Families will love the Catskills for unique activities like scenic train rides, wildlife watching, and hands-on farm experiences that promote fun learning!
Greene County is a family-friendly destination with diverse attractions ranging from outdoor adventures to local culinary experiences.
With a vibrant culinary scene featuring farm-to-table dining, local breweries, and gourmet food shops, the Catskills promise a delicious journey for food enthusiasts!
Outdoor Adventures in the Catskills
The Catskill Mountains are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing activities for adventurers of all levels. Whether hiking scenic trails, mountain biking, zip-lining, or enjoying a peaceful hike, the region’s diverse landscape offers the perfect backdrop for any adventure. Greene County, in particular, offers exceptional outdoor adventures, including mountain biking and hiking.
Hikers will find the Catskills’ scenic trails leading to stunning natural landmarks, while mountain biking enthusiasts can explore well-maintained paths catering to both competitive and recreational riders.
For an adrenaline rush, zip-lining tours offer unparalleled views and excitement. The Catskills’ outdoor adventures make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.
Hiking Trails
Hiking in the Catskills is unique, with trails for all skill levels showcasing the region’s natural beauty. Kaaterskill Falls, one of the most popular trails, features a 260-foot waterfall along a moderate route, perfect for families and casual hikers.
For a challenge, the Overlook Mountain trail leads to a fire tower with panoramic vistas. Experienced hikers will enjoy the rugged terrain and rewarding views of the Giant Ledge and Panther Mountain Trail.
The steep climb to Giant Ledge is worth the breathtaking panoramas at the top. Regardless of the trail chosen, hiking in the Catskills promises natural beauty and memorable moments.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking in the Catskills offers an exhilarating experience for riders of all skill levels. The Catskill Forest Preserve features well-maintained trails winding through beautiful landscapes, providing a thrilling ride with breathtaking views.
Plattekill Mountain caters to both competitive and recreational riders with its diverse trails. For a leisurely ride, the Ashokan Rail Trail offers an easy path with stunning views of the Ashokan Reservoir, perfect for bikers seeking a scenic and relaxing experience.
Zip-Lining
Zip-lining at Hunter Mountain promises an adrenaline-pumping adventure with the longest and highest zip-line canopy tour in North America, reaching up to 600 feet above the ground.
Soaring through the air, you’ll enjoy expansive views of the landscape, creating an unforgettable experience. Whether an adventure enthusiast or trying something new, zip-lining in the Catskills will leave lasting memories.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Catskills are perfect for family vacations with activities for all ages, from scenic train rides to interactive wildlife experiences. Many family resorts offer children’s programming and complimentary activities, ensuring a great time for all. The region’s diverse attractions make planning a family trip easy and enjoyable. Greenfield Park is a family-friendly camping destination with amenities tailored for children and parents.
The Catskills provide unique and educational experiences for families, connecting with nature and learning about the environment. Scenic train rides offer a nostalgic journey through picturesque landscapes, while wildlife sanctuaries and hands-on farms provide fun and informative interactive experiences. Regardless of interests, the Catskills ensure a memorable vacation filled with adventure and discovery.
Scenic Train Rides
Scenic train rides in the Catskills offer a charming exploration of the region’s landscapes. The Delaware & Ulster Railroad provides a nostalgic journey through the Catskill Mountains with breathtaking views and serene country roads, all from the comfort of a vintage train car.
This family-friendly activity is perfect for relaxing and taking in the sights at a leisurely pace.
Wildlife Watching
Wildlife watching in the Catskills lets families connect with nature and learn about local animals. The Catskill Animal Sanctuary, a refuge for rescued farm animals, offers guided tours where visitors can meet the animals and hear their stories, providing insights into animal behavior and conservation efforts.
Guided wildlife tours in the Catskill Mountains offer the chance to spot deer, birds, and other indigenous animals in their natural habitats.
Hands-On Farms
Hands-on farms in the Catskills provide fun and educational experiences for families. Hull-O Farms offers farm tours, petting zoos, and educational activities, giving visitors a glimpse into farm life and creating lasting memories.
Feeding animals or learning about sustainable farming practices, a visit to a hands-on farm enriches the experience for the whole family.
Winter Sports and Recreation
In winter, the Catskills become a wonderland with sports and recreational activities for all ages. From skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and ice skating, the region provides endless winter fun. Many ski resorts offer ski and stay packages, making it easy to plan a family-friendly winter vacation. Whether you’re an experienced skier or a beginner, the Catskills have something for everyone. Greene County, just two hours north of New York City, offers a variety of winter sports and recreational activities.
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, the Catskills are ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The serene winter landscapes provide a perfect backdrop, allowing you to explore the region’s beauty at a slower pace.
For a leisurely winter activity, ice skating at local rinks or frozen lakes is a charming way to enjoy the season. Whatever your winter sport of choice, the Catskills promise a memorable experience.
Ski Resorts
The Catskills host popular ski resorts like Windham, Hunter, and Belleayre, catering to skiers of all ages and skill levels. Many resorts offer ski and stay packages, making it easy to plan and maximize your time on the slopes.
With breathtaking views and well-maintained trails, the Catskills’ ski resorts offer an unforgettable winter adventure.
Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing
Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the Catskills provide a serene way to explore the winter landscape. The region features numerous groomed and ungroomed trails, such as the Mountain Trails Cross Country Ski Center, which offers over 20 miles of groomed trails.
Whether a seasoned skier or trying snowshoeing for the first time, the Catskills offer a beautiful and tranquil setting for winter adventures.
Ice Skating
Ice skating in the Catskills is a delightful winter activity for individuals and families. Bearpen Mountain offers ice skating alongside other winter activities, creating a festive atmosphere. Local rinks like the Kiwanis Ice Arena in Saugerties provide a family-friendly environment for a fun day on the ice.
Whether a seasoned skater or just starting, ice skating in the Catskills is a wonderful way to embrace the winter season.
Arts and Culture in the Catskills
The Catskills boast a rich arts and culture scene rooted in history and creativity. Known for contributions to America’s first artistic movement, the Hudson River School of Art, the region remains a hub for artists, musicians, and historians, offering vibrant galleries, live music venues, and historical landmarks. Greene County, in particular, offers unique attractions such as music festivals and craft beverage trails.
Visitors can explore various art forms, from traditional painting to contemporary music. The Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, located on the historic 1969 Woodstock Festival site, hosts diverse concerts and events year-round.
The region’s historical landmarks, such as the Olana State Historic Site and the Bronck Museum, provide fascinating insights into the area’s history.
Art Galleries and Museums
The Catskills host several notable art galleries and museums celebrating the region’s artistic heritage. The Thomas Cole National Historic Site in Catskill offers tours of the artist’s home and studio, showcasing his contributions to the Hudson River School of painting. Visitors can explore Cole’s legacy and gain a deeper understanding of his influence on American art.
Events like the Stagecoach Run Art Festival allow visits to artists’ homes and studios, offering a unique and immersive art experience.
Live Music Venues
Live music is integral to the Catskills’ cultural scene. Levon Helm Studios, known for its intimate setting and emphasis on roots music performances, is a must-visit venue. The cozy atmosphere enhances the live music experience, making each performance feel personal and memorable.
With its focus on roots music, Levon Helm Studios ensures a culturally rich and unique musical experience for all attendees.
Historical Landmarks
Historical landmarks in the Catskills offer a glimpse into the region’s past. The Olana State Historic Site, once the home of artist Frederic Edwin Church, features stunning architecture and gardens. The Catskill Mountain House ruins served as a popular resort in the 19th century.
The Bronck Museum, featuring the oldest house in the Hudson Valley, provides insights into 17th-century life through guided tours. These landmarks highlight the rich history and cultural heritage of the Catskills.
Unique Shopping Experiences
Shopping in the Catskills is an adventure in itself, offering a variety of unique and charming locations. From antique shops in Hudson to local markets and specialty stores, there’s something for every shopper to discover. The region’s diverse shopping venues reflect the creative spirit and craftsmanship of the area, making it a great destination for finding one-of-a-kind items.
Antique enthusiasts will delight in the treasure troves of vintage collectibles and unique finds available in Hudson and Phoenicia. Local markets, such as the Catskill Farmers Market, showcase fresh produce and handmade goods from local vendors, celebrating the region’s agricultural bounty.
Specialty stores in the Catskills offer a range of artisanal foods and handcrafted items, providing a taste of the local flavors and talents.
Antique Shops
Hudson is renowned for its vibrant antique scene, featuring numerous shops filled with a diverse selection of vintage items, from furniture to collectibles. Visitors can spend hours exploring these treasure troves, uncovering unique finds from different eras.
Phoenicia also hosts several antique stores where shoppers can discover one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect the rich history and culture of the region. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply enjoy browsing through nostalgic items, the antique shops in the Catskills offer a delightful shopping experience.
Local Markets
Local markets in the Catskills are a celebration of the region’s agricultural and artisanal heritage. The Catskill Farmers Market, for example, is a popular spot where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and seasonal goods from local vendors. This market is a hub of activity, offering visitors a taste of the Catskills’ bounty and a chance to support local farmers and artisans.
Whether you’re looking for farm-fresh ingredients or unique handmade items, the local markets in the Catskills provide a vibrant and community-oriented shopping experience.
Specialty Stores
The specialty stores in the Catskills are perfect for those seeking artisanal foods and handcrafted items. Shops like the Alpine Pork Store are known for their wide range of artisanal sausages, traditional German cold cuts, and other regional delicacies.
In addition to meats, these stores offer various local products, including cheeses, jams, and baked goods, all highlighting the region’s commitment to farm-to-table quality. Shopping at these specialty stores not only allows you to bring home unique and delicious items but also supports the local economy and artisans of the Catskills.
Relaxation and Wellness
Amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Catskill Mountains, you’ll find numerous opportunities for relaxation and wellness. The serene environment is ideal for activities that promote tranquility and rejuvenation, making the Catskills a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re looking to indulge in spa treatments, practice yoga and meditation, or soak in therapeutic hot springs, the Catskills offer a variety of ways to unwind and reconnect with yourself.
Wellness retreats, spas, and natural hot springs in the Catskills provide holistic treatments and experiences that cater to both the body and mind. The region’s wellness centers focus on promoting overall health and well-being, ensuring that visitors leave feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Whether you’re seeking a luxurious spa day or a peaceful meditation session, the relaxation and wellness offerings in the Catskills are sure to provide the perfect escape.
Spas and Retreats
The Catskills boast a range of luxurious spas and wellness retreats that offer a variety of treatments designed to relieve stress and promote relaxation. Hemlock Neversink, for instance, provides signature massages and holistic spa treatments that rejuvenate both body and mind. Menla is another prominent wellness retreat in the region, featuring a blend of Tibetan healing therapies and world-class spa services.
Many spas in the Catskills also use local ingredients in their treatments, enhancing the connection to the region’s natural beauty. For a truly indulgent experience, the Emerson Resort & Spa offers a range of pampering services that will leave you feeling completely refreshed.
Yoga and Meditation
Yoga and meditation sessions in the Catskills are designed to immerse participants in the serene natural surroundings. Many wellness retreats offer daily yoga sessions that take place in tranquil settings, allowing you to connect with nature while practicing mindfulness.
Hemlock Neversink, for example, includes yoga classes as part of the stay, providing guests with an opportunity to practice mindfulness amid the beautiful Catskill landscape. These sessions are perfect for those looking to find inner peace and balance in a serene environment.
Hot Springs and Mineral Baths
The therapeutic hot springs and mineral baths in the Catskills are renowned for their healing properties, offering visitors a chance to relax and rejuvenate. Saratoga Springs, in particular, is famous for its natural mineral baths, which provide a variety of health benefits, including stress relief and muscle relaxation.
These hot springs are popular among visitors seeking a soothing and restorative experience, making them a must-visit for anyone looking to unwind in the Catskills.
Food and Drink Experiences
The culinary scene in the Catskills is as diverse and vibrant as its landscapes, offering a range of food and drink experiences that highlight local flavors and ingredients. From farm-to-table dining to craft breweries and gourmet food shops, the Catskills provide a culinary adventure that is sure to delight your taste buds. Many restaurants in the region emphasize locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a fresh and authentic dining experience. Whether you’re enjoying a meal at a cozy inn or sampling local brews, the food and drink offerings in the Catskills are a vital part of the region’s charm.
In addition to dining, the Catskills are home to several breweries and wineries that offer tours and tastings, showcasing the area’s craft beverages. Specialty food shops provide a selection of artisanal products, including cheeses, cured meats, and handmade chocolates, making it easy to bring a taste of the Catskills home with you.
Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to enjoy a delicious meal, the culinary experiences in the Catskills are sure to impress.
Farm-to-Table Dining
Farm-to-table dining in the Catskills emphasizes freshness and locality, with many restaurants committed to sourcing ingredients directly from nearby farms. Deer Mountain Inn, for example, focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create delicious and authentic dishes.
Peekamoose Restaurant features menus that change with the seasons, highlighting fresh local produce and the bounty of the Catskills. These farm-to-table experiences ensure a diverse and seasonal dining experience for visitors, allowing you to savor the best of what the region has to offer.
Local Breweries and Wineries
The Catskills are a popular destination for craft beverages, with several breweries and wineries offering tours and tastings. Catskill Brewery, known for its craft beers that often incorporate local ingredients, provides a unique and flavorful experience for beer enthusiasts. Hudson-Chatham Winery offers a variety of wine tasting experiences featuring locally produced wines, making it a must-visit for wine lovers.
These establishments showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of the region’s beverage industry, providing a delightful addition to your Catskills adventure.
Gourmet Food Shops
Gourmet food shops in the Catskills offer a range of artisanal foods and handcrafted items that celebrate local flavors. The Alpine Pork Store is known for its wide range of artisanal sausages and traditional German cold cuts, providing high-quality products that are perfect for food enthusiasts.
In addition to meats, these shops specialize in various regional delicacies, including cheeses and artisanal breads, ensuring a delightful culinary shopping experience. Whether you’re looking for unique gifts or simply want to enjoy the best of the Catskills’ culinary offerings, the gourmet food shops in the region are sure to impress.
Summary
The Catskill Mountains offer an incredible array of activities and experiences that cater to all interests and ages. From thrilling outdoor adventures to family-friendly activities, winter sports, and a rich arts and culture scene, the Catskills are a destination that promises endless exploration and enjoyment. Unique shopping experiences and diverse food and drink offerings add to the charm of the region, providing visitors with a taste of local craftsmanship and flavors. Whether you’re seeking relaxation and wellness or looking for an action-packed adventure, the Catskills have something for everyone. Plan your visit today and discover the magic of the Catskills for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular outdoor activities in the Catskills?
If you’re looking for adventure, the Catskills are perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and exhilarating zip-lining! Greene County, in particular, offers diverse outdoor adventures, including trails like Kaaterskill Falls and Giant Ledge that await your exploration!
Are there family-friendly activities in the Catskills?
Absolutely! The Catskills are bursting with family-friendly fun, from scenic train rides on the Delaware & Ulster Railroad to wildlife encounters at the Catskill Animal Sanctuary and hands-on adventures at Hull-O Farms! Additionally, Greenfield Park is a fantastic family-friendly camping destination, offering amenities tailored for children and parents. At the Skyway Camping Resort, families can enjoy potluck suppers and themed events, enhancing their camping experience.
What winter sports are available in the Catskills?
The Catskills are bursting with winter fun, offering skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and ice skating! Located just two hours north of New York City, Greene County is home to top spots like Windham, Hunter, and Belleayre for an amazing winter adventure!
What can visitors expect from the arts and culture scene in the Catskills?
Visitors can expect an exciting blend of art galleries, live music venues, and historical landmarks in the Catskills! With places like the Thomas Cole National Historic Site and Levon Helm Studios, there’s always something inspiring happening!
Where can I find unique shopping experiences in the Catskills?
You can discover unique shopping experiences in the Catskills by exploring charming antique shops in Hudson and Phoenicia, visiting the Catskill Farmers Market, and checking out specialty stores with artisanal foods and handcrafted treasures!