Excited to keep sharing places to go around the Catskills and Hudson Valley. This advice comes via Ryan Penny, who opened Camp Catskill in Tannersville, NY. Tune into our conversation and his advice about experiencing "inside the blue line" on Cidiot Episode 85.
1. Camp Catskill
Located in the heart of Tannersville’s bustling (albeit small) downtown area, Camp Catskill offers sustainable hiking gear, clothing, and gifts for all your outdoor adventures in the Catskills and beyond.
2. Kaaterskill Falls / North-South Lake
One of America’s oldest tourist attractions, Kaaterskill Falls is a two-stage waterfall that rises to 260’ arguably making it the tallest in New York State. The observation platform is accessible via the Laurel House Rd Parking lot off North Lake Rd. Make sure to bring microspikes in winter if you plan to climb down the stone steps into the falls. Some info from Great Northern Catskills and Hike The Hudson Valley.
3. Overlook Mountain House Ruins
Built in 1833, the ruins of the Overlook Mountain House sit near the top of Overlook Mountain, just north of Woodstock. Perhaps a reason why it was never quite as.successful as some of the other hotels in the area during that time (such as the Catskill Mountain House, Hotel Kaaterskill, and the Laurel House), the site is a difficult hike from either Platte Clove Rd. In the Town of Hunter, or Meads Mountain Rd in Woodstock but offers incredible views, especially from the Overlook Mountain Fire Tower. Some info from Abandoned Spaces.
4. Mountain Top Arboretum
A local gem in Tannersville, the arboretum features a network of easy hiking trails for the whole family to explore. Make sure to check out the Hidden Marsh and stop by the recently completed Education Center during your visit. Open dawn to dusk year-round and admission is free. Info here.
5. Colgate Lake
A popular swimming destination during the warmer months (pictured above), Colgate Lake is a picturesque location just off the Escarpment Trail in neighboring East Jewett offering amazing views of the Blackhead Range as well as a few primitive campsites. Info for a hike from the Catskill Mountaineer.
Remember there’s great hiking advice via Mountain-Hiking.com (and an interview in episode 55: Hike Your Own Hike). Send in your suggestions to add to the list and if you stop by Camp Catskill, tell ‘em Cidiot sent ya.
Photo: Ryan Penny
