Why go: Kaaterskill Falls is one of the Catskills' most recognizable natural attractions and one of the region's classic waterfall destinations. The falls drop through a forested mountain landscape, creating a dramatic setting that is especially impressive after periods of rain.
The surrounding area offers beautiful views of the Catskill Mountains and makes an excellent introduction to the region's natural scenery. The waterfall is particularly popular during spring, summer and fall.
What to expect: A dramatic waterfall, forest trails, mountain scenery, photography opportunities and seasonal foliage.
Recommended time: 1–3 hours.
Best for: Families with older children, hikers, photographers and nature lovers.
Best time: Spring through fall.
Practical tip: Wear sturdy footwear and follow posted trail and parking regulations. Wet rocks and changing weather can make the area slippery.
Combine it with: North-South Lake, the Kaaterskill Mountain area and a scenic Catskills drive.
Why go: Hiking is one of the best ways to experience the Catskills. The region has trails ranging from relatively easy walks to demanding climbs, with opportunities to explore forests, mountain ridges, waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints.
Popular hiking areas include the Catskill High Peaks and mountain trails around Hunter, Windham, Woodstock and the surrounding communities. Fall is especially rewarding when the forest changes color.
What to expect: Forest trails, mountain summits, streams, waterfalls, rocky terrain and expansive viewpoints.
Recommended time: 2–8 hours.
Best for: Hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, photographers and nature lovers.
Best time: Late spring through fall, depending on trail conditions.
Practical tip: Choose a trail appropriate for your experience, check weather and trail conditions, carry enough water and allow extra time for elevation gain.
Combine it with: A waterfall visit, scenic drive or dinner in a nearby Catskills town.
Why go: North-South Lake is one of the most popular recreational areas in the Catskills, offering a combination of water activities, hiking, camping and mountain scenery.
The lake area is particularly appealing during warmer months when visitors can spend time near the water or use the surrounding trails to explore the landscape. Its location also makes it convenient for visiting other attractions in the northern Catskills.
What to expect: Lakeside scenery, swimming opportunities, hiking trails, forest landscapes and outdoor recreation.
Recommended time: 2–5 hours.
Best for: Families, swimmers, hikers, campers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Best time: Late spring through early fall.
Practical tip: Check current park rules, swimming conditions, parking information and seasonal operating schedules before visiting.
Combine it with: Kaaterskill Falls, Catskill Mountain hiking and scenic drives around the Hudson Valley.
Why go: Some of the best Catskills experiences come from simply getting on the road. Mountain highways and winding rural roads connect forests, valleys, waterfalls, overlooks and small communities throughout the region.
Scenic drives are especially attractive in autumn, when the Catskills become a spectacular landscape of red, orange and yellow foliage. Summer provides excellent conditions for exploring the area's lakes and mountain roads as well.
What to expect: Mountain roads, forest views, valleys, overlooks, covered bridges and small Catskills communities.
Recommended time: 2–6 hours.
Best for: Road trippers, couples, photographers and families.
Best time: Summer and fall.
Practical tip: Allow plenty of time for stops and viewpoints rather than treating the drive as simply a route between destinations.
Combine it with: Kaaterskill Falls, mountain villages, overlooks and a local restaurant.
Why go: The Catskills are home to a collection of distinctive mountain communities where visitors can experience local restaurants, cafes, shops, galleries and the region's relaxed atmosphere.
Towns and villages such as Woodstock, Phoenicia, Tannersville, Windham and Catskill provide different perspectives on the region. Exploring one of these communities is an easy way to add food, culture and local character to an outdoor-focused trip.
What to expect: Independent shops, restaurants, cafes, galleries, historic buildings and mountain-town scenery.
Recommended time: 1–3 hours.
Best for: Couples, families, food lovers, shoppers and first-time visitors.
Best time: Year-round.
Practical tip: Visit during the day and check individual business hours, particularly outside the peak summer and fall seasons.
Combine it with: A waterfall, hiking trail, scenic drive or nearby mountain attraction.
Why go: Waterfalls are among the Catskills' most rewarding natural attractions. Beyond the famous Kaaterskill Falls, numerous smaller cascades and streams can be found along the region's hiking trails.
Water levels are often particularly impressive in spring and after periods of rainfall. Summer and fall offer more comfortable conditions for combining waterfall walks with other outdoor activities.
What to expect: Forest trails, cascades, streams, rocky terrain and scenic photography locations.
Recommended time: 1–4 hours.
Best for: Hikers, families with older children, photographers and nature lovers.
Best time: Spring through fall.
Practical tip: Stay on marked trails and use caution around wet rocks, steep edges and fast-moving water.
Combine it with: A mountain hike, scenic drive or visit to a nearby Catskills village.
Why go: Lakes provide a relaxing alternative to mountain hiking. The Catskills have several lakes and reservoirs where visitors can enjoy scenery, paddling, fishing, swimming in designated areas and quiet time beside the water.
Spending part of a trip on the water is particularly enjoyable during summer. The surrounding forests and mountains create a classic Adirondack-like landscape while retaining the distinctive character of the Catskills.
What to expect: Mountain reflections, forested shorelines, paddling, fishing, swimming and peaceful scenery.
Recommended time: 2–5 hours.
Best for: Families, couples, paddlers, anglers and photographers.
Best time: Late spring through early fall.
Practical tip: Check local regulations and water conditions before boating, paddling or swimming.
Combine it with: A picnic, scenic drive or visit to a nearby mountain town.
Why go: The Catskills are famous for their broad mountain views, and several overlooks provide spectacular perspectives without requiring a full-day hike.
Mountain viewpoints are particularly impressive during fall foliage season, but the scenery changes beautifully throughout the year. Clear summer days can provide expansive views across the valleys and surrounding mountains.
What to expect: Panoramic mountain views, forests, valleys, photography opportunities and spectacular sunsets.
Recommended time: 1–3 hours.
Best for: Photographers, couples, families and sightseers.
Best time: Summer and fall.
Practical tip: Visibility can change quickly with clouds and weather. Bring layers and avoid relying on mountain views being clear all day.
Combine it with: A scenic drive, nearby hiking trail or Catskills village.
Why go: Winter transforms the Catskills into a destination for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, winter hiking and other cold-weather activities. The region's mountain resorts provide a convenient base for experiencing the snowy landscape.
Hunter Mountain and Windham Mountain are among the better-known winter destinations, while many trails and rural roads provide opportunities to experience the quieter side of the Catskills during the colder months.
What to expect: Snow-covered mountains, ski areas, winter trails and cozy mountain-town experiences.
Recommended time: Half day to full day.
Best for: Skiers, snowboarders, families, winter travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Best time: Winter, subject to snow and operating conditions.
Practical tip: Check snow conditions, road conditions and attraction operating schedules before traveling into the mountains.
Combine it with: A Catskills village, local restaurant or winter scenic drive.
Why go: The Catskill Park encompasses a huge natural landscape of mountains, forests, streams, lakes and recreational areas. Exploring the park is one of the best ways to understand the scale and character of the Catskills.
Visitors can choose from hiking, wildlife watching, photography, camping, fishing, paddling and scenic drives. The park's varied landscapes make it suitable for both adventurous travelers and visitors who simply want to spend time in nature.
What to expect: Mountain forests, wildlife, trails, lakes, streams, scenic viewpoints and extensive outdoor recreation.
Recommended time: 3 hours to several days.
Best for: Nature lovers, hikers, campers, photographers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Best time: Year-round, with different activities available by season.
Practical tip: Before heading into the park, check current trail conditions, seasonal regulations, weather forecasts and any parking or camping requirements. Cell service can be limited in some remote areas, so download maps in advance when possible.
Combine it with: A Catskills hike, lake visit, waterfall, scenic overlook or mountain town.
New York State offers far more than New York City, with scenic regions, historic towns, lakes, mountains and cultural attractions spread across the state. Give yourself enough time to explore beyond the major cities and build an itinerary around the regions and experiences that interest you most.
Explore New York GuidesThe best Catskills itinerary depends heavily on the season and the type of outdoor experience you want. Summer is ideal for hiking, swimming, paddling and exploring mountain towns, while fall is especially popular for foliage and scenic drives. Winter brings skiing, snowboarding and snowy mountain landscapes, and spring is a good time for waterfalls and quieter trails.
| Season | Best Activities | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Waterfalls, hiking, scenic drives | Flowing streams, emerging greenery and generally quieter trails. |
| Summer | Hiking, swimming, lakes, paddling and villages | Warm weather and the widest range of outdoor activities. |
| Fall | Foliage, scenic drives, hiking and photography | Colorful forests and one of the region's busiest travel periods. |
| Winter | Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and winter recreation | Snow-covered mountains, cold temperatures and changing road conditions. |
Choosing where to stay depends on whether your priority is hiking, nightlife, restaurants, skiing or simply having a quiet mountain getaway. Larger towns and established mountain communities make convenient bases for exploring several attractions, while cabins, inns and vacation rentals can provide a more secluded experience.
For a first visit, consider staying within easy driving distance of the attractions you most want to see. The Catskills cover a large area, so grouping activities geographically can save significant driving time.
For many first-time visitors, hiking and visiting Kaaterskill Falls are among the highlights. Scenic drives, mountain towns, lakes and overlooks are also excellent choices if you want a broader introduction to the region.
A weekend is enough to experience several major attractions, while three to five days allows more time for hiking, waterfalls, scenic drives, lakes and mountain towns without rushing.
Summer and fall are popular for hiking, sightseeing and outdoor recreation. Fall is especially attractive for foliage, while winter is the season for skiing and snow-based activities. Spring can be particularly rewarding for waterfalls.
Yes. Families can choose from easier walks, lakes, scenic drives, mountain towns and other outdoor attractions. For hikes and waterfalls, select activities that match the ages and experience levels of everyone in your group.
Absolutely. Scenic drives, mountain overlooks, lakes, villages, restaurants and seasonal attractions provide plenty to do even if you do not want to tackle a strenuous trail.