Fall in New York usually means scenic drives, leaf-peeping hikes, and train rides upstate to watch the trees turn shades of red, orange, and gold. But what if you could take in those autumn colors while flying through the air at 55 mph?
About 2.5 hours north of NYC, on the New York–Massachusetts border, Catamount Mountain Resort in Hillsdale, NY, offers a seriously thrilling way to see the season. The mountain resort is home to the longest dual zipline in the United States, where visitors can soar above the surrounding landscape and take in sweeping views of the Hudson Valley and the Berkshires.
And if one high-flying adventure isn’t enough, there’s also a sprawling aerial adventure park waiting in the trees. If you ask us, it’s a necessary addition to your fall bucket list.
Meet the “Cata-Monster,” the longest dual zipline in the U.S.
Forget leisurely strolls through the foliage. At Catamount, you can take your leaf-peeping to new heights on the Cata-Monster, the resort’s record-setting dual zipline.
Stretching an incredible 5,523 feet–more than a mile long–the zipline sends riders racing down the mountain at speeds of more than 55 mph.
As you fly above the treetops, you’ll get panoramic views of the surrounding Berkshire Mountains and Hudson Valley, with autumn colors spreading across the landscape below.
The dual-line setup also means you can ride alongside a friend and see who makes it down first. Consider it a little friendly competition to go with your fall getaway.
The full experience: 3 ziplines & a scenic chairlift ride
The Catamount Zip Tour takes about two hours, and the adventure begins before you even clip into the first zipline.
You’ll start with a scenic chairlift ride up the mountain, giving you a chance to admire the surrounding scenery at a much more relaxed pace. Once at the top, you’ll tackle a series of ziplines before reaching the main attraction.
First up is the Ridge Zip, a 1,000-foot stretch that introduces you to the experience. You’ll then take on a second zipline before making your way to the mighty Cata-Monster for the grand finale.
Not exactly a thrill-seeker? You may still want to give it a go.
The zipline features a self-controlled braking system, allowing riders to adjust their speed rather than simply racing down the mountain at full throttle.
Whether you’re in it for the adrenaline rush or the bird’s-eye views of the fall foliage, there’s a memorable mountain experience waiting either way.
Make a full day of it at Catamount’s Aerial Adventure Park
The best part: the fun doesn’t end once your zipline tour is over.
Once you’re done flying through the air, head to Catamount Aerial Adventure Park, one of the largest aerial parks in New England.
Tucked away under the canopy of the trees, the park features nine courses and more than 150 challenge elements suspended among the trees.
You’ll navigate obstacles including swinging bridges, ladders, and smaller ziplines, with different courses offering different levels of difficulty. Whether you’re an experienced climber or simply looking for a new way to enjoy the outdoors, there’s plenty to explore.
Each Adventure Park ticket grants you three hours of climbing, making it an easy way to turn your zipline outing into a full day of outdoor adventure.
🚨 Secret NYC Tip: The $139 combo ticket includes both the Zip Tour and the Aerial Adventure Park, making it a convenient option if you want to experience both attractions in one trip.
When to catch peak fall foliage in Hillsdale, NY
Because Hillsdale is nestled right where the Hudson Valley meets the Berkshire Mountains, it’s well-positioned for an autumn getaway filled with colorful mountain scenery.
While exact fall foliage times fluctuate year to year, the region generally sees its peak colors right now—during the second and third weeks of October.
If you’re planning a visit between now and late October, you’re practically guaranteed to fly through a vibrant sea of crimson, burnt orange, and gold.
Where to stay
Want to make a full weekend getaway of it?
There are several nearby accommodations to consider if you’d rather not drive back to NYC after a day of mountain adventures.
- Little Cat Lodge: A boutique stay located right by the resort, making it a convenient option for visitors who want to be close to the action
- Cozy Cat Motel: Another nearby option located just steps from the base lodge
- ButtonBall Inn: Located in South Egremont, this inn offers an on-site restaurant and food truck
- Prospect Berkshires: A lakeside retreat for travelers looking for a scenic place to unwind after a day outdoors
With the Berkshires and Hudson Valley both nearby, you can also build in time for scenic drives, local eateries, and small-town exploring.
Need to know details for visiting Catamount Mountain Resort
If you’re planning a fall foliage trip, be sure to check the resort’s current schedule and book your preferred time slot in advance.
- Location: Catamount Mountain Resort (17 Catamount Rd, Hillsdale, NY)
- Zip Tour Fall Hours (Oct 1 – Nov 1): Fridays–Sundays, 10 am to 3 pm
- Aerial Park Fall Hours (Sept 8 – Nov 1): Saturdays & Sundays, 10 am to 5:30 pm
- Requirements: Zip Tour riders must be 10+ years old, 55+ inches tall, and weigh between 50 and 260 lbs. (Aerial Park requires ages 7+ and max weight 265 lbs)
- What to wear: Closed-toe shoes are strictly required (no sandals or flip-flops), and since you’re hitting 55 mph in the crisp autumn air, dress in warm layers!
- Tickets: Zip Tour: $109 (ages 10+) | Adventure Park: $49 (ages 12+), $39 (ages 7–11) | Zip Tour/Adventure Park Combo: $139
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