With fall comes cooler temperatures, apple picking and brilliant fall foliage. From mountaintops to rolling hills, the Catskills are home to a unique landscape that is perfect for experiencing the changing leaves. And since fall in the Catskills is best experienced first-hand, we recommend a visit to our beautiful region this season. So put on your warm jacket, pack your camera and discover the best places to see fall foliage in the Catskills at one of these nine locations!
Where to See Views of Fall Foliage in the Catskills
1. Mount Utsayantha
Hike Mount Utsayantha in Stamford for spectacular fall views. The two-mile round trip hike is moderately challenging, offering big views for nominal effort. For a bird’s eye view of the surrounding mountains, climb the fire tower at the summit.
2. Hunter Mountain
Find your sense of adventure soaring above the treetops with New York Zipline Canopy Tours at Hunter Mountain. Take in incredible views as you zoom down the mountain. Interested in a more relaxing ride? Venture to and from the summit of Hunter Mountain on the Scenic Skyride. You’ll see breathtaking views of Catskills fall foliage for miles.
3. Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway
Take a casual drive along the Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway. Stretching 52 miles, the Byway will lead you through small Catskills towns and along rolling hills and waterways. The Byway follows New York Route 28 and features extensions along New York Routes 42 and 214.
4. Delaware & Ulster Railroad
Hop aboard the Delaware & Ulster Railroad! See the fall foliage and the mountain landscape as you ride through the Catskills. To experience history, board the Rip Van Winkle Flyer, a 1940s streamliner.
5. Mountain Clove Scenic Byway
Drive along the Mountain Clove Scenic Byway through the Great Northern Catskills. Discover the beauty of the region from the comfort of your own car as you pass by rolling farmland and stop at scenic vistas. On your journey, learn the history of Greene County, find recreational activities, visit the local communities and fuel your adventure with stops at Catskills restaurants along the way.
6. Walnut Mountain Park
Hear fallen leaves crunch beneath your feet as you explore 13 miles of trails at Walnut Mountain Park in Liberty, New York. Try the West Lake Loop for an easy 1.4-mile hike or the Around the Mountain Loop for a moderate two-mile hike. Prefer to mountain bike? There are more than nine miles of trails to try.
7. Vernooy Kill Falls
Find fall foliage surrounding scenic Catskills waterfalls while hiking Vernooy Kill Falls in Kerhonkson, New York. The hike is approximately 3.6 miles round trip. As you get to the falls, look for remnants from an old mill that once stood nearby.
8. Bashakill Wetlands
Connect with nature as you look for changing leaves at Bashakill Wetlands. With more than 15 miles of walking trails, you’ll find serenity in the Catskills. Watch for wildlife as the wetlands are home to more than 200 species of birds, including great blue heron, osprey and bald eagles as well as other water-loving animals, such as otters.
9. Upper Delaware Scenic Byway
Discover impressive fall views along the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway on New York Route 97. The 70-mile byway parallels the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River, a National Park. Stop to take a photo at a pull-off area, hike a nearby trail and spot wildlife – all in one drive!
If you’re interested in experiencing fall at its finest, a trip to the Catskills is a must. Whether you want to explore along tree-lined paths that lead to mountaintops, take a leisurely drive along winding roads or enjoy a scenic walk through a park, there’s a spot for you in the Catskills.
