Fall is a magical season in Upstate New York, with its brisk sunlit air during the day and cool, crisp evenings that are ideal for gathering around bonfires with cozy blankets. Late Autumn has a lot to offer, making it a great time of year to visit us! If you are seeking a getaway from the hustle and bustle of New York City, you are in the right spot.
Hiking the Kaaterskill Falls
With over 200,000 visitors every year, Kaaterskill Falls in Hunter is an excellent hike for those looking to view one of the most stunning natural wonders of Upstate New York. The tiered waterfall is 260 feet tall and popular amongst locals and tourists alike, so arrive early! Remember to wear a pair of good hiking shoes and dress comfortably, especially as the weather cools down. Kaaterskill Falls is nestled within the Kaaterskill Forest, a beautiful natural preserve in the Catskills just minutes from Hotel Mountain Brook in Tannersville, New York.
Exploring Woodstock during Fall in Upstate New York
If you’re a music fan or simply love art and culture, Woodstock is a must-visit during late Fall! In this vibrant village, you’ll find plenty of dining options, local galleries, and more. Music lovers can visit the original Woodstock Music Festival in Bethel, just 43 miles away from town, however you don't need to travel far to see live music in town at one of the many venues offering a variety of shows. If you stay in Woodstock for the weekend, you’ll enjoy restaurants likeCucina and YumYum, shop along Tinker Street, or visit the nation’s oldest arts and crafts colony, Byrdcliffe. Twin Gables,our first {verdigreen} hotels property is located in the heart of this charming town, right on Tinker Street!
Biking the Ashokan Rail Trail
For all the cyclists out there, late Fall is one of the best times to get in the final bike rides of the season before snow covers the ground. Ashokan Rail Trail is a great option, providing a scenic ride or walk. There are 11.5 miles of trails that run between West Hurley and Boiceville. Even if you’re not a cyclist, you can still run, walk, or simply enjoy the view! Its relatively flat terrain makes it the perfect activity for the whole family. It's easy to get to, just a few miles from our Twin Gables, our Woodstock location, and about 35 minutes from Hotel Mountain Brook.
Apple Picking
To truly embrace the spirit of the season, apple picking at Stone Ridge Orchard is an excellent activity to include in your weekend plans. This 200-year-old historic working farm on 115 acres in Rondout Valley is the ideal destination for those who love baked goods, hard cider, and apple and pear picking. If you visit on the weekend, you can also enjoy NY beer, wine, and cocktails. Just thirty minutes south of Twin Gables, this is a fun activity on your way up to visit! If you are staying with us at our Hudson Valley farmhouse, Silver Maple Farm, the closest orchard is Hilltop Orchards. They offer apple picking, wine and cider tastings, hiking trails, and the most delicious cider doughnuts!
Stargazing and S'mores at the Fire Pit
After hiking or apple picking with your loved ones, what better way to end the day than to stargaze? Once you leave New York City, the light pollution clears and the skies are clear for starry nights. No matter where you choose to stargaze, you can use astronomy apps to spot the constellations while you enjoy some hot cocoa and marshmallows and the crackling of a fire to keep you warm. We offer complimentary S'mores at all three of our Upstate New York properties and you can see different POVs of the night sky from each.
Touring Olana State Historic Site
Listed as one of the best historic sites in New York, Olana State Historic Site is the stunning home and estate of artist Frederic Church. It’s a perfect day trip to learn a bit about the Church family, who were cultural tastemakers in New York in the 1800s and influenced the art of the era. From the historic architecture to the scenic views of the Hudson River, it’s the best place to visit to learn, relax, and enjoy a unique view of the changing leaves as winter approaches. Read more about it in detail on our previous blog here.
Shopping a Farmers’ Market
Looking to indulge in some local produce and sweet treats? If you are staying with us at Silver Maple Farm or Hotel Mountain Brook, a trip to the Hudson Farmers’ Market trip is one of the best places to find local treats, crafts, fresh produce, and even seasonal attractions. Here, you’ll find 30 regular vendors and a list of guest vendors on rotation. The Hudson Farmers Market offers a fun day trip option with live music, food, and drinks every week. It’s a great place to relax, unwind, and find some new favorite snacks before you head back to the city.
Taking a Trip to Historic Huguenot Street
If you want to learn more about the Hudson Valley and its unique history, why not visit Historic Huguenot Street? In the late Fall, Historic Huguenot Street in New Paltz offers quieter crowds and the opportunity to see well-preserved 17th-century stone houses that give you a glimpse into the region’s past. You can book a guided tour to dive deep into the local history but be sure to visit before the end of October when they close for the season.
Fishing or Kayaking on the Hudson River or its tributary, Esopus Creek
For the more outdoorsy folks who want to enjoy the cool Autumn breeze, fishing and kayaking on the Hudson River is always a fantastic activity for late Fall. The crowds will be fewer, so you’ll enjoy quieter waterways and the last bit of Fall color before winter arrives. There are so many places you can launch your fishing boats or kayaks, so plan ahead to see what destination is best for you based on your trip itinerary. Our innkeepers can connect you with a local guide or you can go on your own adventure.
Visiting DIA: Beacon or other local art museums
For all the art enthusiasts out there, a weekend in the Catskills or Hudson Valley is not complete without visiting DIA: Beacon on your way back down South towards the city. This contemporary art museum is a vast space, so be prepared for walking. With your admissions ticket, you’ll be able to view every single exhibit and enjoy free parking. It’s best to visit for at least two hours to ensure you get the most out of your time here and to see all the stunning artwork! Two local alternatives, weather dependent since they are outdoors, are Storm King Center and Art Omi.
Plan Your Trip to the Catskills and Hudson Valley This Fall
With so many activities to choose from, you have plenty of ideas to fill your itinerary, no matter if you’re here during the week or on a weekend. We hope that this list inspired you to create the perfect getaway into the Hudson Valley!
Book a room with us if you’re looking for a place to stay while you explore the area. Our close proximity to all of these activities makes it the perfect place to call home during your adventure into the Hudson Valley and Catskills.
Thanks for reading,
The Hotel Mountain Brook Team
Looking for somewhere else to stay in the Hudson Valley? Check out one of our other upstate properties in Woodstock, and East Chatham.
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