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Overview
The Catskill Mountains occupy a broad plateau in southeastern New York State, roughly 100 miles northwest of New York City. Part of the larger Appalachian system, they span portions of Ulster, Delaware, Greene, and Sullivan counties, covering more than 700,000 acres of mixed forest, open ridges, and working farmland.
The region has a layered history: it was home to Lenape peoples long before European settlement, became a center of 19th-century landscape painting through the Hudson River School, and later developed into one of America's first resort destinations. For much of the mid-20th century, the Sullivan County portion — sometimes called the Borscht Belt — was packed with Jewish resorts and summer hotels; most have since closed, though a handful of properties have been thoughtfully reimagined.
Today the Catskills draw hikers, skiers, fly fishers, cyclists, artists, and weekenders from the New York metro area seeking slower-paced, nature-focused travel. Small towns such as Woodstock, Phoenicia, Woodstock, Livingston Manor, and Narrowsburg each have a distinct character, and the broader region has seen renewed investment in independent restaurants, breweries, and boutique accommodation over the past decade.
The Catskills are not a single city or town — 'the Catskills' refers to the entire mountain region. Travelers should decide in advance which valley, town, or trailhead anchors their visit, as distances between highlights can be significant.
Before You Go
Visas
The Catskill Mountains are in the United States. For visa requirements, consult TravelerPulse's Visas section and check directly with the U.S. Department of State or your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, as requirements vary by nationality.
What to Pack
- Layered clothing year-round; mountain weather changes quickly and evenings are cool even in summer
- Waterproof hiking footwear if you plan to use trails
- Bear canister or bear-proof bag for overnight camping in the Catskill Park
- Insect repellent for spring and early summer (tick and black fly season)
- Cash — many small farms, farm stands, and rural vendors are cash-only or have limited connectivity for card payments
Practical Planning Notes
- Cell coverage is inconsistent in remote valleys and on high ridges; download offline maps before you go
- Many popular trailheads fill early on summer and fall weekends; plan to arrive before 9 a.m. or use weekday alternatives
- Some roads become difficult or impassable in heavy snow without four-wheel or all-wheel drive; check NYSDOT road conditions in winter
- The region does not have a central visitor information office; the Catskill Center and individual county tourism boards publish useful planning resources online — verify current details on their official sites
Getting There
By Car
Driving is the most practical way to reach and explore the Catskills. From New York City, several routes lead into the mountains: the New York State Thruway (I-87) to Exit 19 (Kingston) or Exit 21 (Catskill) serves the eastern and northern portions; Route 17 (future I-86) connects the southern and western reaches via Sullivan and Delaware counties. Travel times from midtown Manhattan typically range from 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on destination and traffic.
By Bus
Adirondack Trailways and Short Line (part of the Coach USA network) offer scheduled bus service from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan to several Catskill towns including Woodstock, Phoenicia, Margaretville, and Liberty. Schedules and stops change; verify current routes and times directly with the operators before booking.
By Train
Amtrak's Empire Service and Ethan Allen Express stop at Rhinecliff, Hudson, and other Hudson Valley stations, but none are in the Catskill Mountains proper. From those stations you would need a rental car, rideshare, or arranged pickup to reach most Catskill destinations — distances can be 30–60 miles.
Rental Cars
Rental car agencies operate from Stewart International Airport (Newburgh), Albany International Airport, and some Hudson Valley train stations. Reserving well in advance is advisable for summer and fall foliage weekends.
Getting Around
A personal vehicle is effectively essential for most Catskills travel. Trailheads, waterfalls, farms, and smaller towns are spread across a large rural area with minimal public transit connections between them.
Rideshare apps (Uber, Lyft) function in and around larger towns such as Kingston and Woodstock but coverage thins rapidly in rural valleys. Local taxi services exist in some communities; verify locally before relying on them.
Cycling is popular on quieter county roads and on dedicated routes such as the O&W Rail Trail in Sullivan County and portions of the Catskill Scenic Trail in Delaware County. Road conditions and trail surfaces vary; check with local outfitters for current conditions.
For visitors without a car who want to hike, some outfitters and small tour operators offer shuttle services to popular trailheads — search locally or verify through county tourism boards, as these services change seasonally.
Where to Stay
Accommodation in the Catskills ranges from state-managed campgrounds to independently owned inns, vacation rental homes, and a small number of full-service resort properties. There is no large chain hotel infrastructure in most of the mountain towns.
Camping
The New York State DEC manages numerous campgrounds and lean-to sites throughout the Catskill Park. Reservations for popular sites fill quickly, particularly for summer and fall weekends; book through the official New York State camping reservation system as early as permitted. Backcountry camping is allowed on state land above 3,500 feet elevation only outside the growing season — check current DEC rules before planning.
Inns and Small Hotels
A number of independently owned inns and motor lodges operate in towns such as Woodstock, Phoenicia, Hunter, and Fleischmanns. The quality and character vary considerably; read current guest reviews and verify amenities before booking.
Vacation Rentals
Private home rentals are widely available through major platforms and are often the most practical option for groups or families seeking a kitchen and more space. Demand is high on weekends; book well in advance for peak seasons.
Resort Properties
A small number of larger resort properties operate in the region, some on the sites of historic Borscht Belt hotels. Verify current offerings, pricing, and availability directly with properties, as the landscape of resort accommodation in the Catskills has been changing with ongoing renovations and openings.
Things to See & Do
Hiking
The Catskill Park contains 35 peaks above 3,500 feet, known collectively to peak-baggers as the Catskill 3500. Popular trails include Slide Mountain (the highest peak at approximately 4,180 feet), the Devil's Path — considered one of the most challenging ridge hikes in the Northeast — and more accessible routes to Kaaterskill Falls, one of the tallest two-tiered waterfalls in the eastern United States. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) manages trailheads and publishes trail information on its website.
Skiing and Winter Recreation
Hunter Mountain and Belleayre Mountain are the two principal ski areas. Windham Mountain is another established option. All three offer downhill skiing and snowboarding; Belleayre is state-operated through the Olympic Regional Development Authority. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are available on marked trails throughout the park. Verify current lift ticket pricing, hours, and snow conditions directly with each resort.
Fly Fishing
The Beaverkill and Willowemoc rivers in Sullivan County are historically significant fly-fishing streams. The Catskills are widely credited as the birthplace of American dry-fly fishing; the Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum in Livingston Manor provides context and programming. Fishing licenses are required in New York State — obtain them through the NYSDEC.
Arts and Culture
- Woodstock retains a strong arts identity; the Woodstock Artists Association & Museum is one of the oldest artists' organizations in the country
- The Thomas Cole National Historic Site in Catskill town preserves the home and studio of the founder of the Hudson River School
- Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, on the site of the 1969 Woodstock Festival in Bethel (Sullivan County), operates a museum and outdoor performance venue
Swimming and Paddling
Several swimming holes along Peekamoose Road, Peekamoose Blue Hole, and on the Esopus Creek attract summer visitors. The DEC issues guidelines and, at some sites, reservation systems during peak season — check before visiting. Kayaking and canoeing are available on the Delaware River along the southern border.
Farm Visits and Agritourism
The region supports active farming; apple orchards, berry farms, and cideries welcome visitors in season. Many operate farm stands and U-pick operations from late summer through autumn. Hours and availability vary — contact farms directly.
Food & Drink
The Catskills food scene has grown substantially in the past decade, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients from regional farms. Independent restaurants, rather than chains, define the landscape in most towns.
Towns with Notable Dining
- Woodstock and Phoenicia (Ulster County) have a concentration of cafés, taverns, and restaurants serving everything from casual American to more considered farm-to-table menus
- Livingston Manor and Narrowsburg (Sullivan County) punch above their population size in food quality, with several well-regarded restaurants and a craft beverage scene
- Delhi and Margaretville (Delaware County) serve as practical dining hubs for visitors exploring the western Catskills
Craft Beverages
The region has a growing number of craft breweries, cideries, and distilleries. Notable examples include operations in the Catskill, Woodstock, and Sullivan County areas — verify current operating status and hours locally, as small producers adjust schedules seasonally.
Practical Notes
- Many restaurants are closed one or two weekdays; call ahead or check current hours online before making a trip
- Reservations are strongly recommended on summer and fall foliage weekends — some popular spots book out weeks in advance
- Grocery options are limited outside of Kingston and a few larger towns; travelers staying in remote rentals should stock up before heading into the mountains
Practical Information
Emergency Services
Dial 911 for all emergencies in the United States. For non-emergency trail rescues or to report a lost hiker in the Catskill Park, contact the New York State DEC Forest Rangers — their regional contact information is published on the DEC website.
Health
Tick-borne illnesses, including Lyme disease, are a genuine concern throughout the Catskills. Perform tick checks after any time outdoors, use appropriate repellent, and wear long clothing when hiking in brushy or wooded terrain. Consult a physician if you develop symptoms after a tick bite.
Connectivity
Mobile and broadband connectivity is unreliable across much of the region. Download maps, trail guides, and any essential information before leaving a town with reliable service. Emergency calls may still connect on limited service — but do not rely on your phone for navigation on remote trails.
Money
ATMs are available in larger towns (Kingston, Catskill, Liberty, Oneonta) but may be scarce in smaller hamlets. Many farm stands, roadside vendors, and small shops prefer or require cash.
Seasonal Considerations
- Spring (April–May): Trails can be muddy and some high-elevation routes are restricted to protect soil; black flies peak in May
- Summer (June–August): Busiest season; popular sites fill quickly on weekends
- Fall (September–October): Foliage peaks roughly mid-October; extremely popular and accommodation books far in advance
- Winter (November–March): Roads can be hazardous; many smaller restaurants and businesses reduce hours or close entirely
Safety
The Catskills are generally a safe destination for outdoor recreation, but the mountains demand appropriate preparation. Hypothermia is a risk even in summer at higher elevations if conditions change; always carry an extra layer and rain gear.
Tell someone your hiking plan — trailhead, intended route, and expected return time — before heading out, particularly on longer or less-traveled trails. The Catskill 3500 peaks and the Devil's Path involve steep, rocky terrain that is not suitable for inexperienced hikers in casual footwear.
Black bears are present throughout the park. Store food and scented items in bear-resistant containers when camping, and follow DEC guidelines on bear encounters. Encounters are common but dangerous incidents are rare when visitors follow best practices.
River and swimming hole safety: water levels on the Esopus Creek and other streams rise rapidly after rainfall; the Peekamoose Blue Hole and similar sites have seen drowning incidents. Assess conditions carefully, do not swim alone, and heed any posted advisories.
