Weekend Getaway to Catskill Mountains, New York

For those willing to climb for the views, the Catskills are full of remarkably scenic and memorable hikes. One of our favorites is Overlook Mountain, with multiple points of interest. After about a forty minute trek uphill, the trail leads straight up to the grand facade of the Overlook Hotel, a structure dating back to the beginning of the 1900s. (The hotel's longer history dates back to 1833, when the original structure was built, but then burned down.) Almost 100 years since it was built, the hotel is now overgrown with trees, vines, plants and wildflowers; the resulting scene is otherworldly. Just a short trek beyond the hotel ruins is the mountain's summit, with two incredible views. The first is a clearing in the trees; the second is a clearing with a fire tower on top. Guess which one has the better view?

For more leisurely sightseeing, the view from the Ashokan Reservoir can't be beat. Many of the Catskills' 35 peaks can be seen, seemingly floating above the reservoir, which is one of several bodies of water that later become New York City's famous tap water. To get here, route yourself to the intersection of Historic Route 28A and Monument Road just outside of Olivebridge, New York. There's a parking lot at the foot of a long pedestrian-only bridge, perfect for a short jog, bike ride or sunset stroll.

For real thrill-seekers, white-water tubing is a great way to explore the Catskills. Two tubing businesses in the ultra-cool town of Phoenicia, New York, the "tubing capital of the world," compete for your business. We've tubed with both down the Esopus Creek, and in every type of weather, we’ve seen fish, deer and bald eagles. It takes sightseeing to a whole new level — just don't forget to look up!