7 Must-Do Activities for a Summer
Getaway in the Catskills

7 Must-Do Activities for a Summer Getaway in the Catskills

There’s more to a Catskills getaway than simply slowing down — although we highly recommend that too. From mountain trails and waterfalls to rail biking and small-town exploring, here are seven experiences worth adding to your Abeni Estate stay.

1. Rail Bike Along the Esopus Creek

Pedal your way through the Catskills with Rail Explorers in Phoenicia. Their scenic rail-bike routes follow the historic Ulster & Delaware Railroad alongside the Esopus Creek, winding through woodland, mountain scenery and some of the prettiest stretches of the area. Electric-assist rail bikes make it an easy adventure for couples, families and groups.

2. Hike to the Tremper Mountain Fire Tower

For guests ready for a proper Catskills hike, Tremper Mountain is one of the area’s classics. The roughly six-mile round-trip climb leads through forest to the historic fire tower, where sweeping views of the surrounding mountains reward the effort. The trailhead is just outside Phoenicia.

3. Walk or Bike the Ashokan Rail Trail

Take things at your own pace along the Ashokan Rail Trail, an 11.5-mile scenic trail beside the Ashokan Reservoir. Walk, cycle, run or simply choose a short stretch and enjoy the reservoir and mountain views. Its wide crushed-stone surface makes this one of the area’s more relaxed outdoor adventures.

4. Ride to the Top of Belleayre Mountain

Want the mountain views without the climb? Take the Catskill Thunder Gondola at Belleayre Mountain to the summit. Once at the top, wander the summit trails, bring a picnic or simply take in the Catskill Forest Preserve stretching out around you. Gondola rides operate on selected summer and fall days.

5. Spend an Afternoon in Woodstock

Make the short trip to Woodstock, one of the Catskills’ best-known arts communities. Wander along its streets, browse independent shops and galleries, discover local art and crafts, grab something to eat and soak up the town’s long-standing creative and musical spirit.

6. Climb the Upper Esopus Fire Tower

For an easier alternative to a full mountain hike, visit the Catskills Visitor Center in Mount Tremper. A gentle interpretive trail leads to the 80-foot Upper Esopus Fire Tower, with views across the Esopus Valley, Mount Tremper and surrounding peaks. It’s a great option for families or anyone looking for a shorter outdoor outing.

7. See Kaaterskill Falls

No Catskills summer list feels complete without a waterfall. Kaaterskill Falls is one of the region’s signature natural sights, dropping 260 feet in two tiers. From the Laurel House Road parking area, it’s just a 0.3-mile walk to the viewing platform, making the dramatic scenery surprisingly accessible.