Fall Foliage Adventure in New York

Just a two-hour drive from New York City, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of autumn. This year, the fall leaves are arriving earlier than usual, with peak colors expected this weekend at Catskill and Hunter Mountain! 💯

Day 1: Exploration in Catskill Park

We kicked off our adventure early in the morning on October 4th. Our first stop was Catskill Park, where we parked at Kaaterskill Falls parking lot. Be aware that this spot fills up quickly, so getting there by 10 AM is essential for a chance at a parking space. If luck isn’t on your side, there’s a nearby private parking lot charging $10; it’s an easy 10-minute walk from the main road, which can save time!

The park features two main viewpoints at the falls. The Viewing Platform offers a breathtaking view of the waterfalls, while hiking down the yellow trail leads to the base, especially spectacular after a rain when the water flow is robust.

Afternoon Adventures

In the afternoon, we moved on to North Lake Parking Lot, which also charges $10 per vehicle. We enjoyed a leisurely walk by the lake before embarking on the blue trail uphill. After about 30 minutes, we reached Artists Rock, and a half-hour later, we stood atop Sunset Rock. Watching the sunset from there is a must! 🌄 As the last rays of sunshine danced on the lake, the scenery was simply breathtaking.

We spent the night at Red Ranch Inn, a strategic choice to wake up for sunrise viewing at Artists Rock the next morning. The magnificent sea of clouds surpassed all our expectations! 🌅

Day 2: Hunter Mountain Valley Vibes

Post-sunrise, we headed towards Hunter Mountain. The scenic chair lift ride was a dream for those looking to take it easy. Personally, I found the views at Hunter to be even more stunning, with deeper reds in the foliage. On the other hand, while Catskill is gorgeous at peak, the abundance of pine trees diluted the overall color palette a bit. 🍁🍂🍻

Dining Recommendation

We dined at Rip Van Winkle Brewing Company on our first evening. Their craft beers are simply incredible, boasting the New York Beer Silver Award! The menu features a mix of Italian and American cuisine, and both the pizza and pasta are delightful choices you can enjoy with confidence! 🍕🍝

Conclusion

Whether you’re a leaf peeper or just looking for a quick getaway from the city, New York’s autumn landscapes offer an unforgettable experience. Explore the breathtaking views, indulge in local flavors, and witness the magical moments of sunrise and sunset amidst the stunning fall foliage.

Let this be your perfect autumn itinerary—embrace the beauty of the season and create memories that will last a lifetime! 🍂✨