The Catskill Mountains are located west of the Hudson River, in the north of New York state. Located in the Hudson Valley region, they include the counties of Ulster, Sullivan, Greene, Delaware and Schoharie. The Catskills are one of the most popular outdoor destinations in the state and a great place to golf, explore natural wonders and enjoy the outdoors.
Hiking
There are numerous hiking destinations in the Catskills, and Slide Mountain may be the most popular. At 4,294 feet, not only are the trails abundant but the view is also magnificent. Winter hiking is also possible, and it can be combined with snowshoeing or cross-country skiing if snow is abundant. Another popular hiking destination in the Catskills is the North Lake State area, which offers nine marked trails in different levels. Trails cross bridges, waterfalls and old monuments, such as the 1900 Layman Monument to firefighters. One of the most popular trails here is the seven-mile Black Dome Trail, which offers unobstructed views of the valley.
Hiking Trails in the Catskills
http://www.catskillguide.com/hiking.htm
Howe Caverns
One of the most impressive cave systems of its kind in the country, the Howe Caverns is located 156 feet below the surface and accessed through a special elevator. Once in the depths of the caverns, visitors can take a boat ride through the galleries, as well as walk around the passages and tunnels of the caverns. There's also a special Lantern Tour on weekends, where visitors (16 and older) are guided throughout the caverns using only torches and lanterns, just like Lester Howe, who discovered the caves in 1842, used to do.
Howe Caverns
255 Discovery Drive
Howes Cave, NY 12092
http://www.howecaverns.com
Catskill Golf Club
If you would rather see the scenery without having to hike to the hills, the Catskill Golf Club may be just the place to visit. Designed with plenty of slight doglegs, rolling hills and open greens, the most inspiring thing about this place may be the open views of the Catskill Mountains in the background. The blue course is especially beautiful, as it offers a clear view of the valley and mountains. There's a pro-golf shop, a high-quality restaurant and training facilities on the premises.
Catskills Golf Club
27 Brooks Lane
Catskill, NY 12414
http://www.catskillgolfclub.com
About The Author
Sarah Dray has been writing since 1996. She specializes in health, wellness and travel topics and has credits in various publications, including "Woman's Day," "Marie Claire," "Adirondack Life" and "Self." She is also a seasoned independent traveler and a certified personal trainer and nutrition consultant. Dray is pursuing a criminal justice degree at Penn Foster College.
