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Every fall, the Catskill Mountains put on one of the best foliage shows in New York, if not the whole country.
By late September, the first patches of red and gold start to show at higher elevations. Through October, the change spreads across the valleys, ridges, and forests until the whole region is lit up with color.
If you’re planning a trip to see Catskills fall foliage, hiking is the best way to experience it. Trails bring you to overlooks, fire towers, and mountaintops where you can take in wide views of the autumn landscape. Even short walks through hardwood forests can give you that quiet, close-up view of changing leaves.
In this guide, you’ll find some of the best hikes for Catskills fall foliage. I’ve also included a lesser-known alternatives in case you want to avoid the busiest trails. Each option offers a different way to see the season.
Fall hiking in the Catskills does come with some planning. Trailheads are often crowded on peak weekends, and parking fills early. Weather can shift quickly, especially on higher peaks, so bring layers.
Use this list to find the right hike for your own fall foliage trip to the Catskills. Whether you want sweeping mountaintop views or a quiet trail through the forest, these hikes will show you why the Catskills are one of the best places in New York to see fall foliage.
And of course, don’t forget your camera.
Foliage Tracker › My Fall Foliage Reports
Stay Sane Here › Best Catskills Vacation Rentals
Fall Foliage: Giant Ledge
The short rugged hike to Giant Ledge takes about an hour, so it’s quite doable. And the view from multiple lookouts along the Ledge is amazing. This is one of the top destinations in The Catskills for hikers at any time of year — but especially during leaf-peeping season.
The hike to Panther from Giant Ledge is not difficult, and adds about 45 mins each way. It’s well worth it, if you have the time; amazing views.
- Hike Giant Ledge (Ultimate Guide)
- Alternate hike: Balsam from Rider Hollow — A truly delightful hike through Mine Hollow, up over Balsam Mountain, then down through Rider Hollow. This is one of the most picturesque hikes in the Catskills.
Giant Ledge is also a strong contender for your first sunrise hike.
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Fall Foliage: Kaaterskill Falls
The lower trailhead and route to Kaaterskill Falls, via Bastion Falls, is blocked off right now. You’ll have to approach the falls from above. Most people park at the Laurel House Road lot and quickly walk down to the viewing platform.
- Hike: Kaaterskill Falls (Ultimate Guide)
- Alternate hike: Kaaterskills Falls via Kaaterskill Rail Trail — this short, super-easy hike includes scenic views not seen by those who park closer to the falls
Fall Foliage: Ashokan Rail Trail
With three massive lots, and spectacular views of the reservoir and surrounding mountains, the Ashokan Rail Trail is the safest way to take in The Catskills — and is especially accessible for anyone with mobility issues.
The north end of the trail (in Boiceville) has the best scenic views.
- Hike Ashokan Rail Trail
- Alternate hike: Ashokan Quarry Trail — A short, super-easy hike almost anyone can do with fantastic terrain and scenic views (and a superb set of ruins to explore).
Fall Foliage: Ashokan High Point
Another super-popular destination — great for camping overnight, and the relatively flat walk in to the back of the hollow is stunning at this time of year.
The climb to Ashokan High Point is steep, and the views are… okay! We can do better…
- Hike Ashokan High Point
- Alternate hike: Windham High Peak from Cross Road — Hiking Windham High Peak from Route 23/Cross Road is my favorite way to hike this wonderful mountain. The large parking area, and the easy first mile of boardwalks and hemlock-rich woods, make for such a pleasant beginning and end to this beautiful day hike.
Fall Foliage: Overlook Mountain & Fire Tower
You can hike up Overlook Mountain’s easy trail in about an hour. The fire tower at the end of this short trail is positioned to give one of the most dramatic views in the Catskills. A nearby ledge offers an incredible view.
- Hike Overlook Mountain Fire Tower
- Alternate hike: Mount Tremper Fire Tower — This short, steep trail is one of the most popular routes in the Catskills because the (massively underrated) view from this fire tower is truly extraordinary.
Fall Foliage: Hunter Mountain Fire Tower
From Spruceton, this moderate and very scenic hike can be completed in 3-5 hrs. This is the easiest route to climb Hunter Mountain.
- Hike Hunter Mountain Fire Tower
- Alternate hike: Romer Mountain & Mount Pleasant — The hike to Romer’s summit is locally popular for good reason: the trail is beautiful. The hike to Mt Pleasant is less travelled but is absolutely worth it. It ends with one of the most spectacular vistas in the Catskills.
Catskills Fall Foliage Hikes
The Catskills offer a diverse array of fall foliage hikes that cater to all skill levels and preferences. Whether you’re seeking a challenging trek, a tranquil stroll, or a family-friendly adventure, the region’s vibrant colors and breathtaking landscapes will undoubtedly leave you in awe.
So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and immerse yourself in the spectacular beauty of the Catskills this autumn.
Read More
- Check the main Fall Foliage Reports Page
- Here’s a list of the most scenic hikes you can try
- And here’s a list of the most popular hikes on this website
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