Catskill Park

If all of this climbing and hiking isn't exactly your idea of a good time don't worry, there is plenty more to do than abuse yourself in the Catskill Mountains. Catskill Park contains a scenic wonder that requires very little effort to see, Kaaterskill Falls.

Kaaterskill Falls is the highest waterfall in New York (even higher than Niagara). Comprised of two falls, the upper falls is a thin cord falling 170 feet into a deep pool. The lower falls is a wider cascade that drops another 64 feet into Kaaterskill Creek. It is truly a wonder to behold.

Located on state highway 23-A, the trailhead that leads to Kaaterskill Falls is between Palenville and Haines Falls, New York. The small parking lot is located on a turn out just north of a sharp hairpin turn. The short half-mile trail is an easy walk to the base of the falls where you will find the best view. Along the trail stunning Bastion Falls offers an immediately reward for your efforts. This 30 feet high cascade dances across the gray rocks and is a great distraction on your way to Kaaterskill.

Once you arrive at the base of Kaaterskill Falls, you can continue to the top of the falls on a social trail but access is extremely dangerous and is not recommended. There has been a series of accidents and fatalities from people attempting to climb to the top of the falls or behind the upper falls about half way down. The rocks are extremely slippery and the risk is taking an 85 feet plunge into either a shallow pool or onto jagged rocks.

When you say Catskill Park to some people they don't think about mountains, trails or waterfalls, they think about fishing. And it is in the clear cold waters of the rivers and creeks of Catskill Park where you can find some of the best trout fishing, especially rainbow trout, east of the Mississippi River.  Not only does the state of New York stock the various rivers, creeks and streams, but the wild population is very much alive and well.

The best of the best for rainbow trout fishing is the Esopus River. Running along state highway 214, the Esopus is born high on Hunter Mountain and runs fast and cold to Ashokan Reservoir to the south. Because the Esopus lacks clearly defined pools and runs so fast it is a challenge for the angler. Brown, brook and rainbow trout can call be taken from the river but it is the rainbow trout that are found in vast numbers. Fish run close to twelve inches on average, with rainbow trout running as long as sixteen inches when two year old rainbows return from Ashokan Reservoir to spawn.

The Esopus is also home to another favorite summer pastime, tubing. If you visit Phoenicia, New York located in the heart of Catskill Park, F & S Sports Tube & Raft Rental will provide you with transportation, route information and inner tubes rentals. If you are visiting with your family the tubing experience should be reserved for teenage children.  The fast moving and rocky Esopus isn't the log flume ride at Disney World, but it's not a scene out of the movie Deliverance either. The rapids and small falls carry you downstream in the 56 degree water, which can be a nice break on a 90 degree summer day.

If you enjoy mountain biking you will probably be challenged to find a more mountain biking friendly place (an increasing challenge). Not only are there hundreds of miles of available roads, fire roads and trails, but most of the area ski resorts open up their slopes and cross country ski tracks to those who prefer to get there on a set of wheels. Tracks and trails range from easy cruises to extreme rides down insanely steep terrain - and best of all you don't have to break any rules to enjoy it.

If cross country skiing is what you are looking for look no further than Mountain Trails Cross Country Ski Center in Tannersville, New York. Offering 22 miles of groomed trails in a pristine 300 acre setting, this superb ski area is dedicated to the sport of cross country skiing.

If the pending National Park ban on snowmobiles has got you down don't despair, snowmobiles are alive and well in Catskill Park and the nerve center is in Hunter, New York. Groomed trails are available if you brought your own sled. If you're looking to rent, Silver Springs Ranch Snowmobiling in Haines Falls offers rentals and trails on private land.

It is really impossible to do Catskill Park justice in just a single story. There are thousands of campsites, horseback riding, rock climbing, golf, hunting, ballooning, skydiving, and other activities that we just couldn't possibly cover.  There are dozens of guide books available for visiting this reason, and several dedicated websites!  People have spent a lifetime visiting the Catskill Mountains again and again exploring each mountain top, notch, and river. Whether it is a climb up some of the most rugged mountains on the east coast, cross country skiing in freshly fallen snow, taking an auto tour on scenic state highway 28 to see fall foliage, or catching a fresh supper of rainbow trout in one of the dozens of streams and rivers, there is something for everyone in Catskill Park.

Just The Plain Facts