Haines Falls

Hiking

Catskill Mountain House site. A stone's throw from North-South Lake and Kaaterskill Falls, the mountain house was built in the early 1820s as an intimate retreat that appealed mostly to outdoorsy folks and artists. As the area's popularity increased, the resort expanded, topping out at just over 300 rooms. The area and its grand hotels fell out of favor in the early 20th century, as the automobile opened up more options for travelers. In the 1960s, following years of disrepair and neglect, the mountain house was burned down by the state. Still, many people make the hike to the site, which is about 2,300 feet above sea level. The site is a short hike from the North-South Lake Public Campground, which welcomes day-trippers. Rte. 18, 2 mi north of Rte. 23A. 518/589-5058 North-South Lake Public Campground. www.dec.ny.gov. Mid-May-late Oct., $6.

The Escarpment Trail, part of the 340-mi Long Path from Albany to New York City, offers 23 mi of rigorous Catskills hiking and beautiful valley views. The trail follows the 1,600-foot-tall cliff known as the Great Wall of Manitou, leading you through rugged terrain and forests, over fallen trees, across creeks, and along rock outcroppings with stunning views of North-South Lake. If you want to hike just part of this rough trail, access it at the North-South Lake Public Campground (Rte. 18, 2 mi north of Rte. 23A. 518/589-5058. www.dec.ny.gov); the day-use fee is $6 from mid-May to late October and free the rest of the year.

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