Kaaterskill Falls
New York’s tallest waterfall is a must-see. Make the steep, mile-long trek to the lower falls, or visit the new upper falls viewing platform to see it from the top. 13 miles
Fly Fishing
Our pal Copper Don leads guided fly-fishing trips on the Schoharie Creek and Esopus Creek (the birthplace of the sport), as well as to blue-ribbon waters including the Beaverkill, Willowemoc, and Upper Delaware.
Christman’s mountain course
Looking for a golf course that’s as challenging as it is beautiful? Play the mountain course at Christman’s. With 7,150 yards set on 200 acres, it’s the longest and largest course in the region—and one you won’t soon forget. 3.5 miles
New York Zipline Adventure Tour
The fastest, longest, highest zipline canopy tour in North America, with 5 miles of ziplines, is located right down the road at Hunter Mountain. 7 miles
Acra Point
For a moderate, rewarding hike that’s only a few minutes away, we always recommend Acra Point, a 3-mile round-trip trek with views of the Batavia Kill Valley and Blackhead Mountain Range. The trip can be extended to 5 miles by continuing returning on the loop trail. 6 miles
Windham Country Club
Located just a mile away, the Windham Country Club course is set along the Batavia Kill and has spectacular views of the Great Northern Catskills. 1 mile
Olana State Historic Site
19th century artist Federic Edwin Church designed and built this sumptuous, Persian-style home on the hilltop where he once sketched landscapes under the tutelage of renowned Hudson River School artist Thomas Cole. The house and surrounding landscape is open to visitors year-round. 26 miles
Colgate Lake
Tucked away in the Catskills Forest Preserve, Colgate Lake is our favorite secret swimming hole. Open only to swimmers, anglers, and non-motorized boats, it’s a serene, natural place surrounded by mountain peaks. 9 miles
Horseback Riding
Our friend Anita at Dancing Horse Farm (5 miles) works with rescued horses and ponies and offers lessons and rides for people of all ages and abilities. K & K Equestrian Center (15 miles) also offers horseback and pony rides, with the added bonus of meeting farm animals. Accomplished riders will love a day out with Joseph A. D’Acunto, licensed outdoor guide and owner of Rough Riders Ranch (7 miles).
North-South Lake
This popular state campground is open to day visitors who come to swim, hike, fish, paddle, and picnic. Rowboat, kayak, canoe and paddle boat rentals are available. A short trail leads to incredible vistas at the Catskill Mountain House site. You can also access the Kaaterskill Falls upper viewing deck from a trail that starts just outside the campground. 15 miles
Zoom Flume
The Catskills’ original water park for 36 years and running, Zoom Flume has grown to include a giant bowl slide, wave pool, zipline, kids lagoon, lazy river, and tons of waterslides. 12 miles
Mountain biking
The Elm Ridge Trail System (2 miles) offers 11.4 miles of single-track. For a steep downhill ride, check out Windham Mountain Bike Park (2 miles), home to beginner and advanced trails and the longest jump trail on the East Coast. For bike rentals and insider’s tips, see our friend Nick at Windham Mountain Outfitters (1 mile).
CAMPSIDE CHEF
Professional chef and certified hiking guide Ron Loeber, better known as the Campside Chef, offers guided culinary hikes in the Catskill Mountains. On the way, learn about local plants, animals, and history. At the summit, dig into a delicious, freshly prepared meal. Catskill Lodge guests get 10% off!