9 Epic Outdoor Adventures You Can’t Miss In New York’s Catskills
Tucked away just a couple hours from New York City, the Catskills offer some of the most thrilling outdoor experiences on the East Coast.
From towering waterfalls and challenging mountain trails to scenic gondola rides and peaceful rail paths, this mountain playground has something for every adventurer.
Whether you’re craving adrenaline-pumping hikes or relaxing nature strolls, these ten adventures will show you why the Catskills deserve a top spot on your bucket list.
1. Slide Mountain
At 4,180 feet, Slide Mountain claims the title of highest peak in the Catskills.
The trail stretches about 6.5 miles round trip with a steady but manageable climb that rewards you with incredible summit views.
Famous naturalist John Burroughs loved this mountain and wrote about it extensively.
You’ll pass through beautiful hardwood forests and see wildflowers dotting the path during summer months.
The summit offers 360-degree views on clear days, stretching across the entire Catskill range.
Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms that roll through mountain peaks.
2. Kaaterskill Falls
Standing at 260 feet, this two-tiered waterfall ranks as one of the tallest in New York State.
The hike to reach it is relatively short but steep, winding through dense forest before revealing the spectacular cascade.
You’ll hear the thundering water long before you see it.
Early morning visits offer the best lighting for photos and fewer crowds jostling for that perfect shot.
Wear sturdy shoes because the trail gets slippery near the falls.
The view from the amphitheater-like base is absolutely breathtaking and worth every careful step.
3. Overlook Mountain Fire Tower
This 5-mile round trip hike takes you past the haunting ruins of an old mountaintop hotel before reaching a restored fire tower.
Climbing the tower’s stairs feels like stepping back in time to when fire watchers scanned for smoke.
The abandoned Overlook Mountain House ruins make for fascinating exploration and eerie photos.
Kids especially love imagining what the grand hotel looked like in its heyday.
From the fire tower’s observation deck, you’ll spot the Hudson River, distant mountains, and the town of Woodstock below.
The trail can get muddy, so waterproof boots are smart.
4. Hunter Mountain Scenic SkyRide
No hiking required for this adventure!
The chairlift carries you effortlessly up Hunter Mountain while you soak in stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys below.
Fall foliage season transforms this ride into a magical carpet of reds, oranges, and yellows stretching as far as you can see.
It’s honestly one of the most beautiful sights in the entire region.
At the summit, you’ll find viewing platforms and short walking trails to explore.
The ride works perfectly for families with young kids or anyone wanting mountain views without the strenuous climb.
5. Hunter Mountain Zipline Adventure
Ready for an adrenaline rush?
This zipline canopy tour sends you flying through the treetops at exhilarating speeds across multiple lines and sky bridges.
The longest line stretches over 600 feet, giving you plenty of time to whoop with joy as wind rushes past your face.
Experienced guides keep everything safe while encouraging you to embrace the thrill.
You’ll get bird’s-eye views of the forest that most hikers never experience.
The whole tour takes about two hours and works for anyone ages seven and up who meets weight requirements.
6. Belleayre Mountain Catskill Thunder Gondola
Belleayre’s gondola whisks you up the mountain in comfortable enclosed cabins, making it perfect for any weather condition.
Unlike open chairlifts, you’ll stay warm and dry while ascending to breathtaking heights.
The eight-minute ride climbs over 1,400 vertical feet, revealing layer after layer of mountain ridges.
At the top, hiking trails fan out in multiple directions for all skill levels.
A mountaintop deck provides spectacular photo opportunities and picnic spots.
During autumn weekends, the gondola gets crowded with leaf-peepers, so weekday visits offer more elbow room and peaceful mountain moments.
7. Ashokan Rail Trail
This 11.5-mile paved trail follows an old railroad bed alongside the gorgeous Ashokan Reservoir.
Perfectly flat and family-friendly, it welcomes walkers, runners, and cyclists of all abilities without challenging climbs.
The reservoir’s blue waters sparkle against the backdrop of Catskill peaks, creating postcard-worthy scenery at every turn.
Benches positioned along the route invite you to pause and simply breathe in the mountain air.
Wildlife sightings are common, including eagles, herons, and occasionally even beavers.
The trail never feels crowded despite its popularity, offering peaceful nature time close to civilization.
8. North–South Lake
These twin mountain lakes sit at 2,000 feet elevation and once inspired Hudson River School painters who immortalized their beauty on canvas.
Today, they offer swimming, paddling, and shoreline relaxation with spectacular mountain backdrops.
A sandy beach provides perfect spots for sunbathing between dips in refreshingly cool water.
Kayak and canoe rentals let you explore hidden coves and lily pad gardens dotting the shoreline.
Multiple hiking trails radiate from the lakes, including routes to Kaaterskill Falls and various scenic overlooks.
The campground here fills quickly on summer weekends, so reserve ahead or visit midweek.
9. Catskill Scenic Trail
Stretching 26 miles from Grand Gorge to Bloomville, this converted railroad corridor cuts through quintessential Catskill countryside.
Rolling farmland, babbling creeks, and covered bridges create a peaceful escape from everyday stress.
The gentle grade makes it accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and beginner cyclists who want mileage without mountains.
Spring wildflowers and autumn colors transform the landscape into seasonal masterpieces worth photographing.
Small towns along the route offer rest stops, ice cream shops, and local eateries.
You can tackle short sections or commit to the full distance over multiple visits.