12 Absolutely Breathtaking Places to Visit in the Catskills

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The Catskills grabbed my heart the second I rounded that bend on Route 23A and saw Kaaterskill Falls cascading down through the forest. I’d seen plenty of photos, but nothing prepared me for standing there watching North America’s tallest two-tier waterfall thunder down 260 feet. Yeah, the Catskills are that kind of place.

From swimming in the crystal-clear pools at the base of Kaaterskill to watching the sunset paint the sky from the Overlook Mountain fire tower, these are the most beautiful places in the Catskills that left me in awe. I spent a week exploring these mountains, and trust me, these 12 spots showcase exactly why this corner of New York keeps drawing people back since the 1800s.

Best Things to Do in the Catskills

Looking for the coolest things to do in the Catskills? Chase waterfalls at Kaaterskill Falls, soak in the creative spirit of Woodstock, and hit the slopes at Hunter Mountain. Hike up Overlook Mountain for panoramic views or relax by the serene Cooper Lake. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, scenic landscapes, or small-town charm, here are the top attractions to visit in the Catskills.

1. Kaaterskill Falls

• 📍 Location: Eastern Catskills, near Hunter, NY, about 2.5 hours north of New York City
• 🏆 Best For: Waterfall chasers 💦, photographers 📸, history lovers 🏛️
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Two-tier cascade dropping 260 feet, surrounded by lush hemlock forest and mountain vistas
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to the dramatic waterfall, exploring the surrounding trails, capturing seasonal transformations
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Kaaterskill – Charming inn with mountain views near the trailhead

Need a natural wonder that’s worth the Instagram likes and the hike? Kaaterskill Falls has the most magnificent cascade in New York State. This 260-foot, two-tier waterfall has stolen my breath every single time I’ve visited. The moderate 1.4-mile round-trip trail winds through magical forest before revealing the thundering falls. For a better experience, climb to the middle platform for an up-close view.

Bastion Falls offers a bonus waterfall right near the parking area. The Hudson River School painters made this spot famous for good reason. Each season transforms the scene completely. Visit at sunrise for solitude or in winter to see magnificent ice formations. Plan at least three hours to fully appreciate this natural masterpiece that dominates the eastern Catskills.

2. Woodstock

• 📍 Location: Eastern Catskills, about 2 hours north of New York City
• 🏆 Best For: Art lovers 🎨, music enthusiasts 🎵, bohemian souls 🧘
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Creative energy, charming shops, and surrounding mountain scenery
• 📸 Top Experiences: Browsing galleries, attending live music, relaxing on the Village Green
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Dylan – Boutique accommodation with music-themed rooms

Craving an escape that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly current? Woodstock offers a perfect weekend getaway for grown-ups seeking creative vibes. The town center buzzes with energy as musicians perform outside colorful shops selling everything from handmade jewelry to vintage vinyl. Weekends here remind me why this place became legendary for artists and free spirits.

Don’t miss the Woodstock Artists Association & Museum to see local talents or Tinker Street for its mix of galleries and organic cafes. The surrounding natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop. Visit Overlook Mountain for sweeping views. On summer Friday nights, join the impromptu Woodstock Drum Circle that captures the town’s enduring spirit. Even a short visit will recharge your creative batteries.

3. Hunter Mountain

• 📍 Location: Northern Catskills, about 2.5 hours north of New York City
• 🏆 Best For: Skiers ⛷️, snowboarders 🏂, festival-goers 🎵
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Panoramic summit views, diverse terrain, four-season recreation opportunities
• 📸 Top Experiences: Skiing varied trails, riding the scenic skyride, attending seasonal festivals
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Scribner’s Catskill Lodge – Modern mountain retreat with stunning views

Ditched your college ski bum days but still crave that mountain high? Hunter Mountain stands as the Catskills’ premier four-season playground for adults who want adventure without extreme commitment. This 4,040-foot peak transforms seamlessly from winter sports haven to summer festival grounds. I’ve found the 67 trails offer perfect variety for everyone from rusty beginners to experts.

The mountain’s top-notch facilities make it perfect for a weekend escape. When snow melts, the Hunter Mountain Scenic Skyride offers breathtaking panoramas while hiking trails like the Fire Tower Trail reward with 360-degree views. Time your visit for the TAP New York Craft Beer Festival or German Alps Festival. The mountain sits just 2.5 hours from NYC but feels worlds away from city stress.

4. Overlook Mountain

• 📍 Location: Eastern Catskills near Woodstock, about 2 hours north of New York City
• 🏆 Best For: Ruin explorers 🏚️, fire tower climbers 🗼, sunset chasers 🌅
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Haunting hotel ruins, panoramic summit views, rocky outcroppings
• 📸 Top Experiences: Discovering abandoned structures, climbing the historic fire tower, photographing Hudson Valley vistas
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Woodstock Way Hotel – Upscale boutique accommodations in nearby Woodstock

Ready for a hike that combines history, ruins, and jaw-dropping views without requiring mountaineering skills? Overlook Mountain packs incredible rewards into a challenging but manageable trail. The 4.6-mile round-trip follows a steady grade up this 3,140-foot eastern Catskills peak. About two-thirds up, you’ll discover my favorite surprise: the haunting skeleton of the Overlook Mountain House.

Continue to the active Overlook Fire Tower where climbing its 60-foot frame rewards you with panoramas spanning the Hudson Valley and beyond. The rocky ledges near the tower offer perfect sunset spots. Visit the Overlook Mountain Buddhist Temple for a moment of zen before descending. Allow 4-5 hours for this adventure that offers perfect social media content and genuine natural wonder just minutes from Woodstock.

5. Cooper Lake

• 📍 Location: Eastern Catskills near Woodstock, about 2 hours north of New York City
• 🏆 Best For: Peaceful paddlers 🛶, bird watchers 🦅, quiet seekers 🧘
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Pristine, undeveloped shoreline, mirror-like water reflections, mountain backdrop
• 📸 Top Experiences: Kayaking the glassy waters, spotting wildlife, enjoying shoreline picnics
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Graham & Co. – Stylish, modern motel in nearby Phoenicia

Searching for that rare spot where nature remains perfectly pristine yet easily accessible? Cooper Lake offers the Catskills’ largest natural lake without a single house spoiling its shoreline. This 173-acre gem sits nestled between forested mountains, protected as a water supply for Kingston. The lake’s untouched condition creates the perfect escape for paddlers seeking tranquility.

Launch from the access point off Cooper Lake Road to glide across waters that mirror the surrounding peaks. Early mornings bring mist that transforms the scene into something magical. I’ve spotted bald eagles here when most visitors haven’t arrived yet. The 2-mile shoreline path provides gentle walking with constant lake views. Photographers should visit during golden hours when the lake becomes a perfect mirror. Allow half a day for this peaceful counterpoint to more strenuous adventures.

6. Catskill Scenic Trail

• 📍 Location: Western Catskills, running from Bloomville to Grand Gorge, about 3 hours northwest of NYC
• 🏆 Best For: Casual cyclists 🚲, horseback riders 🐎, rural landscape lovers 🌾
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Pastoral farmland vistas, river views, historic railroad architecture
• 📸 Top Experiences: Biking the gentle rail trail, crossing historic bridges, visiting trail towns
• 🏨 Where to Stay: North-South Lake Campground – A peaceful retreat offering campgrounds with beautiful mountain views and easy access to trailheads

Want to escape both mountain climbs and tourist crowds without sacrificing scenery? The Catskill Scenic Trail offers a gentle journey into the region’s pastoral heart along a former railroad bed. This 26-mile path follows the Delaware River through a landscape of family farms and quaint villages that feels refreshingly authentic. The flat terrain welcomes riders of all abilities.

The trail passes what feels like a living museum of rural American life. When I need a break from city life, this trail has instant calm. In Hobart, explore renowned bookshops before continuing your journey. Wildlife sightings happen constantly. Plan either a full-day one-way trip or break the trail into segments. This western Catskills gem provides a perfect antidote to digital burnout with its slower pace and genuine connection to the landscape.

7. North-South Lake

• 📍 Location: Northeastern Catskills, near Haines Falls in Greene County, NY
• 🏆 Best For: Families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, swimmers 🏊‍♂️, history enthusiasts 🏛️
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Twin mountain lakes, dramatic cliffs, historic Catskill Mountain House site, Hudson Valley vistas
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming at the beach, hiking to Kaaterskill Falls, exploring Artists Rock viewpoint
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Summer for swimming, fall for spectacular foliage 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: North-South Lake Campground – Largest public campground in the Catskills

Need an Instagram-worthy escape that’s got it all? North-South Lake offers scenery that once attracted America’s elite in the 1800s. These twin lakes offer refreshing swimming spots where you can cool off after hiking to panoramic viewpoints. The trails to Sunset Rock and Artists Rock reveal sweeping Hudson Valley views that inspired famous landscape painters.

More adventurous visitors shouldn’t miss Kaaterskill Falls, New York‘s tallest two-tier waterfall, just a moderate hike away. The area feels like stepping into a living postcard. Beyond hiking, enjoy fishing or kayaking on the calm waters. With over 200 campsites available, I’ve never found a better base camp for exploring charming mountain towns like Tannersville and Hunter nearby.

8. Plattekill Mountain

• 📍 Location: Western Catskills near Roxbury, NY, about 2.5 hours from NYC
• 🏆 Best For: Skiers 🎿, mountain bikers 🚵‍♂️, solitude seekers 🧘
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Uncrowded slopes, pristine forest trails, authentic mountain atmosphere
• 📸 Top Experiences: Skiing challenging double black diamonds, mountain biking, attending live music events
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December-March for skiing, July-October for biking and fall colors 🍁
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Inn at West Settlement – Charming B&B close to the mountain

Craving an escape from corporate ski resorts? Plattekill Mountain stands as the ultimate anti-resort for thrill-seekers who value character over crowds. This family-owned gem features just 38 trails across 75 acres. What it lacks in size it makes up for with challenging terrain that serious skiers appreciate. Summer transforms the mountain completely.

The bike park boasts over 60 miles of trails, from beginner-friendly routes to technical downhill runs that will test your skills. The vibe here feels gloriously stuck in time. Throughout the year, Plattekill hosts unique events like “Plattepalooza” and exclusive mountain rental days. The lodge welcomes tired adventurers with local craft beers and home-cooked meals that perfectly capture the laid-back Catskills spirit.

9. Ashokan Reservoir

• 📍 Location: Central Catskills near Shokan, NY, about 2 hours north of NYC
• 🏆 Best For: Cyclists 🚲, birdwatchers 🦅, photographers 📸
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Vast 8,300-acre lake, mountain reflections, spectacular sunrises/sunsets
• 📸 Top Experiences: Cycling the Ashokan Rail Trail, watching bald eagles, photographing reflections
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring for wildflowers, October for fall foliage mirrored in water 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Foxfire Mountain House – Stylishly restored 1914 mountain inn

Want to feel tiny against nature without a strenuous hike? Ashokan Reservoir offers breathtaking vastness where sky meets water in perfect reflection. This engineering marvel, completed in 1915, now serves as both a crucial NYC water supply and a scenic masterpiece. The best way to experience it is on the Ashokan Rail Trail, an 11.5-mile crushed-stone path hugging the northern shore. Unlike many Catskill attractions, this trail welcomes visitors of all abilities with gentle grades and smooth surfaces.

Wildlife viewing here feels almost guaranteed. Bald eagles soar overhead while herons wade near shore. Photographers should head to the “Frying Pan” section, where curved shoreline creates mirror-like reflections. The most magical moments happen at sunset when Catskill peaks glow pink above still waters.

10. Minnewaska State Park Preserve

• 📍 Location: Southeastern Catskills near New Paltz, NY, on the Shawangunk Ridge
• 🏆 Best For: Rock climbers 🧗‍♀️, hikers 🥾, waterfall chasers 💦
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: White cliff faces, crystal-clear sky lakes, rare dwarf pine ecosystem
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in Lake Minnewaska, hiking to Awosting Falls, exploring ice caves
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Summer for swimming, mid-October for spectacular fall colors 🍁
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Mohonk Mountain House – Historic Victorian castle resort on neighboring lake

Tired of typical forest hikes? Minnewaska State Park Preserve offers something entirely different with dramatic white quartz cliffs rising like castle walls. The centerpiece, Lake Minnewaska glows with impossible azure clarity, surrounded by those white rock faces. Over 50 miles of historic carriage roads and footpaths make this landscape accessible to almost everyone. The easy 2-mile loop around the lake provides constant, jaw-dropping views.

More ambitious visitors should trek to remote Lake Awosting or descend to 60-foot Awosting Falls. Climbers consider this area world-class, with thousands of established routes. The newly restored Smiley Carriage Road offers wheelchair-accessible paths to scenic overlooks. Winter transforms everything with silent snowshoe trails and frozen waterfalls that seem transported from fantasy novels.

11. Mohonk Preserve

• 📍 Location: Southeastern Catskills near New Paltz, NY, adjacent to Minnewaska State Park
• 🏆 Best For: Rock climbers 🧗‍♀️, trail runners 🏃‍♂️, birders 🦅
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Dramatic rock formations, valley panoramas, diverse habitats
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing the Trapps cliff line, hiking to Bonticou Crag, mountain biking
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May for spring wildflowers, September for hawk migration 🦅
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Inn at Kettleboro – Restored 1830s farmhouse with mountain views

Looking for a weekend warrior paradise just 90 minutes from NYC? Mohonk Preserve protects over 8,000 acres of the northern Shawangunk Ridge with meticulously maintained trails. Its most famous feature is the Trapps cliff line, a 4-mile stretch of quartz conglomerate that ranks among North America’s finest climbing areas. Even non-climbers find plenty to love here. The scramble up Bonticou Crag rewards with expansive views after navigating a natural rock maze.

Biodiversity here astounds with over 1,400 plant species and diverse wildlife, including peregrine falcons. The preserve feels different in every season. Spring carpets the forest floor with wildflowers while fall brings spectacular hawk migrations. The gentler Spring Farm and Duck Pond trails offer beautiful meadow walks with views extending to the Catskill high peaks.

12. Slide Mountain

• 📍 Location: Central Catskills wilderness, southwest of Phoenicia, NY
• 🏆 Best For: Serious hikers 🥾, backcountry campers ⛺, peak baggers 🏔️
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Catskills’ highest peak (4,180 feet), pristine wilderness, spruce-fir forest
• 📸 Top Experiences: Summit views, backpacking the Curtis-Ormsbee Trail, John Burroughs memorial
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July-August for stable weather, late September for early fall colors 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Phoenicia Black Bear Campground – Convenient basecamp for High Peaks adventures

Ready to conquer the roof of the Catskills? Slide Mountain stands tallest at 4,180 feet, offering a true wilderness experience just two hours from NYC. The moderate 5.4-mile round trip from Slide Mountain Road climbs through changing forest zones until reaching the spruce-fir summit region. Literary fans appreciate the bronze plaque honoring naturalist John Burroughs, whose words still perfectly capture the mountain’s essence.

The summit feels like entering another world. Experienced hikers seeking the ultimate challenge should try the 10-mile traverse from Woodland Valley over Wittenberg and Cornell mountains before reaching Slide. This makes for an epic day hike or a perfect overnight backpacking trip. The view from just below the wooded summit reveals endless waves of mountains rolling to the horizon like a green sea frozen in time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Most Beautiful Places in the Catskills to visit:

Are you looking for more content on what to do in the Catskills? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about the coolest places to go in the Catskills, NY.

What makes the Catskills special?

The Catskills stand out for their rich blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and recreational activities. From towering peaks like Slide Mountain to serene spots like Ashokan Reservoir, the region offers diverse landscapes that captivate visitors. Additionally, the Catskills have been a source of inspiration for artists, writers, and musicians for centuries, adding a cultural depth to their natural allure.

What is the most beautiful part of the Catskills?

The Catskills region is renowned for its natural beauty, offering a plethora of stunning locations that captivate visitors. However, if one were to pinpoint the most beautiful part, it would likely be a matter of personal preference, as the area offers a variety of landscapes and experiences. That said, some of the most frequently cited breathtaking spots include:

Kaaterskill Falls

This two-tiered waterfall is one of the tallest in New York. It offers a truly awe-inspiring sight, especially after a rainstorm when the falls are at their most powerful.

Overlook Mountain

The summit provides panoramic views that stretch for miles. It offers a sweeping vista of the surrounding Catskills and even the Hudson Valley on a clear day.

Ashokan Reservoir

This man-made reservoir is not just a critical water supply for New York City. It’s also a serene spot offering beautiful views, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Hunter Mountain

Popular both in winter for its skiing and in summer for its hiking trails, Hunter Mountain offers year-round beauty and activities.

Is the Catskills region worth visiting?

Absolutely! There are exciting things to do in the Catskills for everyone, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history lover, or someone simply looking to relax amidst nature. With its vast forests, flowing waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, and charming towns, the Catskills provide a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

How accessible are the attractions in the Catskills?

Many of the Catskills’ attractions are easily accessible, with well-maintained trails, guided tours, and amenities that cater to visitors of all ages and physical abilities. Places like the Mohonk Preserve and Kaaterskill Falls have trails suitable for both novice hikers and seasoned adventurers. Additionally, several spots offer facilities like picnic areas, restrooms, and parking, ensuring a comfortable visit.

What’s the best time to visit the Catskills?

The Catskills are a year-round destination, with each season offering its unique charm. Spring and summer are ideal for hiking, camping, and water activities. Fall brings a riot of colors, making it a favorite for leaf peeping. Winter transforms the region into a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.

Are there family-friendly activities in the Catskills?

Yes, the Catskills are a family-friendly destination. Many of the hiking trails are suitable for children, and there are numerous recreational areas where families can enjoy picnics, fishing, and boating. Additionally, the region hosts various festivals, workshops, and educational programs throughout the year that cater to visitors of all ages.

Concluding the Most Beautiful Places in the Catskills to Visit

The Catskills, with its vast landscapes and diverse attractions, stands as a testament to nature’s grandeur. Are you wondering where to go in the Catskills, NY? The answer lies in its myriad of scenic spots, historic landmarks, and recreational areas. From the towering peaks to the serene valleys, it’s a region that offers some of the best places to visit in New York State.

Every corner of the Catskills exudes beauty, making it a top destination for those seeking charming destinations. Whether you’re an adventurer eager to explore cool places to visit in the Catskills or someone looking for a tranquil escape, this region promises experiences that linger in memory.

As you plan your next trip, remember that the Catskills is more than just a destination. It’s a journey through nature’s finest offerings, a place where every moment is a brushstroke on the canvas of life’s best memories.