Just two hours from New York City, the Catskill Mountains offer one of the most accessible and rewarding weekend escapes in the Northeast. Whether you're after hiking, farm-to-table dining, or simply a quiet cabin in the woods, the Catskills deliver — and they do it without the crowds of the Hamptons or the price tag of Vermont.

Where to Stay

The Catskills span a wide area, so where you stay matters. The most popular areas for vacation rentals are around Woodstock, Saugerties, Livingston Manor, and Stamford. Our A-Frame on Pudding Hill sits on 5 wooded acres near Stamford — a perfect base for exploring the western Catskills.

Look for properties with hot tubs (essential for cold-weather trips), fire pits, and full kitchens. The Catskills experience is about slowing down, and having a well-equipped home base makes all the difference.

What to Do

Hiking: The Catskills are part of the Catskill Park, with 35 peaks over 3,500 feet. Popular hikes include Slide Mountain (the highest peak), Kaaterskill Falls (one of the tallest waterfalls in the Northeast), and the Devil's Path (for experienced hikers only). Most trails are accessible year-round, though winter hiking requires microspikes or snowshoes.

Fly Fishing: The Beaverkill and Willowemoc rivers are legendary among fly fishers. The Catskills are considered the birthplace of American fly fishing, and the rivers are stocked with wild trout.

Skiing: Belleayre Mountain and Hunter Mountain offer solid skiing for a weekend trip. Neither is Vail, but they're two hours from the city and far less crowded than Vermont resorts.

Antiquing: The towns of Woodstock, Saugerties, and Catskill are packed with antique shops, galleries, and boutiques. Budget a few hours for wandering.

Where to Eat

The Catskills food scene has exploded in the past decade. Highlights include Peekamoose Restaurant & Tap Room in Big Indian (farm-to-table, reservations essential), The Pines in South Fallsburg (creative American cuisine), and Bread Alone bakeries throughout the region for morning pastries and coffee.

For groceries and local produce, stop at the Catskill Mountain Country Store in Margaretville or any of the farm stands along Route 28.

Best Time to Visit

Fall (late September through October) is peak season for foliage and is absolutely stunning. Summer is popular for hiking and swimming in the swimming holes. Winter is magical for snow-covered cabins and skiing. Spring is the least crowded and offers excellent fly fishing as the rivers run high.

Getting There

The Catskills are best explored by car. From NYC, take the New York State Thruway (I-87) north to Exit 19 (Kingston) or Exit 21 (Catskill) depending on your destination. The drive takes 2–2.5 hours depending on traffic.