A Burst of Color

Leaf-Peeping the Catskills - on foot

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The change of seasons in the Catskills - from the dog-days of summer to the crispness of fall - is the perfect time to visit for an extended weekend, a daytrip or week-long vacation!

The rolling hills of the Catskills, flush with color through October, create premium vistas for hiking, biking, birdwatching and exploring.

Not to miss fall hikes

Delaware County 

Catskill Scenic Trail - easy

This 26 mile rail-trail travels from Bloomville to Roxbury and is perfect for biking, walking, hiking - and in the winter months snowshoeing or cross-country skiing! catskillscenictrail.org

Palmer Hill Trail - easy

The view from the trailhead on Finkle Road is one of the best in Delaware County - no matter the season, but especially in the fall when northern views replicate a patchwork quilt. This 3.7 mile in-and-out trail takes nature lovers through former hayfields, now lush wildflower meadows, dotted with stone walls and an abundance of flora. catskillmountainclub.org/palmer-hill-trail

Ulster County

Alder Lake Loop Trail - easy

This 1.6 mile scenic trail loops around Alder Lake with opportunities for wildlife spotting. This is a great location to watch eagles, osprey and other birds and animals visit the lake. Parking is located on Ulster county Route 54, Alder Creek Road.

Mount Tremper Fire Tower Trail - moderate 

This 6.1 mile (in-and-out) trail, located in Shandaken, begins with a narrow footpath over rolling terrain before a gradual ascent through a hardwood forest. The old wood road passes two lean-tos before reaching the summit and fire tower. dec.ny.gov/lands/79221.html

Sullivan County

Neversink Gorge Trail - moderate, difficult

This family-friendly 5.7 mile trail located off Cold Spring Road, Forestburgh, is dog-friendly and a perfect way to spend an afternoon. There are two waterfalls that make a nice backdrop for pictures or a picnic. nynjtc.org/map/neversink-gorge-trail-map 

Hurleyville Rail Trail - easy

This two-mile smooth surface trail won’t disappoint hikers, bikers, dog-walkers, photographers or birdwatchers. Formerly known as the Hurleyville Milk Train Trail, this trail links to a variety of venues for art, cuisine and culture in the hamlet’s business district. sullivanoandw.com/hurleyville 

Greene County

Dibbles Quarry - easy

This 2.2 mile round-trip hike leads to the remnants of a historic bluestone quarry outfitted with a variety of stone statues, chairs and staircases. The unusual features make this a must-visit destination. There is a small waterfall and a beaver dam along the trail, along with other uniquely Catskills nature features.

scenichudson.org/explore-the-valley/outdoor-adventures/adventure/dibble-quarry/

North-South Lake Ashley Falls Loop - easy

This 3.2 mile round-trip hike, which begins in the North-South Lake State Campground, just outside of Haines Falls, will treat explorers to a waterfall, cave and breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley.

Schoharie County

Vroman’s Nose Trail- moderate

Vroman’s Nose is a prominent geological feature in the town of Fulton and among the more popular hiking trails in the state. Sweeping views of Middleburgh are found at the top of the jutting rock feature and the trail is lined with benches to rest or just take in the views. Though the first part of the trail is a little steep, this is a one-size-fits-all, not-to-be-missed 1.5 mile hike. alltrails.com/trail/us/new-york/vromans-nose-loop-trail

Schoharie Creek Preserve Loop - easy

This 1.2 miles loop trail is great for hiking, birding, fishing and exploring! It travels adjacent to Schohairie Creek and features multiple waterfalls.

alltrails.com/trail/us/new-york/schoharie-creek-preserve-loop