Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from City of Beacon, NY to Town of Catskill, NY
A road trip from City of Beacon, NY, to Town of Catskill, NY, offers some of the most scenic locations and adventurous experiences that one could ever desire. The trip is not only about the destinations but also the journey, with lush greenery and picturesque views. Tillson, NY, located halfway through the trip, is known for its apple orchards and pumpkin patches. Here are the top five things to do on this 2 hour and 36-minute road trip:
1. Walkway Over the Hudson
The Walkway Over the Hudson, located in Poughkeepsie, NY, is the longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the Hudson River, Highland Mountain Range, and the surrounding landscape. A walk on this bridge is a must-do for both locals and visitors. It brings a unique experience as you stand 212 feet above the river. The trail offers a bike path, kayak, and canoe rentals. It is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while experiencing history.
Interesting fact: During World War II, this bridge was a vital link for transporting troops and supplies.
2. Olana State Historic Site
Olana State Historic Site offers a piece of art that portrays the genius of Frederic Edwin Church, one of the preeminent landscape painters of the 19th century. It is located in Hudson, NY, and covers an area of 250 acres overlooking the beautiful Hudson River. It is a perfect place to escape from the bustle of everyday life, and the vistas of the Catskills are so beautiful that they inspired Frederic Edwin Church's artwork. The design of the site is a blend of Middle-Eastern and Victorian. The site also features extensive gardens that offer a peaceful atmosphere.
Interesting fact: Frederic Edwin Church was a member of the Hudson River School, a group of artists who painted landscapes that contributed significantly to the aesthetic and economic success of the area.
3. Kaaterskill Falls
Located in Hunter, NY, Kaaterskill Falls is a two-step waterfall cascading over 260 feet, making it one of the most popular attractions in Catskill Park and a considerable draw for hikers. The view of the lower falls is easily accessible, requiring only a short walk of a few hundred feet from the parking lot. The hike to the Upper Fall is a bit longer, but the journey is worth the effort. It requires a moderate hike, so both beginners and seasoned hikers can enjoy it.
Interesting fact: Rip Van Winkle, a character from Washington Irving's story, slept for twenty years in the Catskills Mountains. The Kaaterskill Falls appear in the tale, which helped popularize the site in the 19th century.
4. Olde York Farm Distillery and Cooperage
Located in Claverack, NY, Olde York Farm Distillery and Cooperage is one of the unique places to visit on a road trip. The distillery is located on a plot of land that has been in operation since 1785. They craft spirits using their farm-grown grains and fruits in small batches. Visitors can watch the distilling process, learn about coopering, and enjoy tastings of their unique spirits. There is also a gallery with local art on display.
Interesting fact: The distillery is the first certified organic destination distillery in New York State.
5. North-South Lake State Park
Finally, the last stop on this remarkable road trip is the North-South Lake State Park. This park is located in Haines Falls, NY, and offers a unique opportunity to fish, hike, camp or just enjoy nature. The park covers land in both the Catskill Mountain high peaks region and the Hudson River Valley. The park has ten lakes and a sandy beach where visitors can swim or rent boats. The park is a popular destination among photographers, nature enthusiasts, and picnickers.
Interesting fact: It's a known fact that the famous landscape painter, Thomas Cole, sketched Kaaterskill Falls and painted numerous pictures of North-South Lake in all its beauty.
In conclusion, the road trip from the City of Beacon, NY, to Town of Catskill is an adventure worth taking. With numerous stops on the way, there is never a dull moment, and the scenic locations offer unforgettable experiences. The trip takes 2 hours and 36 minutes, but with all of the stopping points on the way, one can easily stretch it over several days to enjoy everything fully.