3.8 km away
Kaaterskill High Peak: Northern Approach
An intense, lesser-traveled approach to the Kaaterskill High Peak.
Severe Hiking
- Distance
- 17 km
- Ascent
- 1.2 km
- Descent
- 1.2 km
Kaaterskill Falls
A straightforward hike leads to a staggering natural feature
Hiking Moderate
- Distance
- 2.5 km
- Ascent
- 129 m
- Descent
- 129 m
- Duration
- 0-1 hrs
- Low Point
- 552 m
- High Point
- 633 m
- Gradient
- 7˚
Offering a trip to the foot of the spectacular Kaaterskill Falls, and a viewpoint which overlooks it, this is a disproportionately spectacular hike for how little effort is required to complete it! As one of the tallest waterfalls in New York State, Kaaterskill Falls cascades down two tiers, plunging a total of 260 feet into a rocky pool below. The water smashing into the pool creates a fine mist which keeps the area around the falls cool even on the hottest of summer days.
Description
As well as the falls themselves, the forests through which you hike are charming, and the views across the surrounding hills are spectacular. The trail is not overly challenging, but it is featured and undulating, and steep in places. After rainfall (or when the wind has blown water from the falls onto the trail) it can be slippery, so sturdy footwear and a bit of caution is advised.
Difficulty
Moderate
Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.
Medium Exposure
The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.
Remoteness
Away from help but easily accessed.
Best time to visit
Features
- Wildlife
- Picturesque
- Dog friendly
- Water features
- Family friendly
- Forestry or heavy vegetation
Similar routes nearby
7.1 km away
Huckleberry Point
A shorter day hike to an excellent vista atop Huckleberry Point.
Moderate Hiking
- Distance
- 7.3 km
- Ascent
- 354 m
- Descent
- 354 m
7.1 km away
Kaaterskill High Point: Southern Approach
A popular route to summit the Kaaterskill High Peak.
Difficult Hiking
- Distance
- 13 km
- Ascent
- 595 m
- Descent
- 595 m
7.5 km away
Sugarloaf Mountain Loop
A challenging day hike connecting three trails and summiting Sugarloaf Mountain.
Severe Hiking
- Distance
- 10 km
- Ascent
- 627 m
- Descent
- 627 m
7.7 km away
Indian Head Mountain Loop
A relentless day hike to the summit of Indian Head Mountain.
Severe Hiking
- Distance
- 9.7 km
- Ascent
- 536 m
- Descent
- 536 m
7.7 km away
The Devil's Path
A rugged thru-hike bagging five of the Catskill High Peaks.
Severe Hiking
- Distance
- 35 km
- Ascent
- 2.6 km
- Descent
- 2.6 km
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Guidebooks in this area
7 routes · Hiking