As the old saying goes, “April showers bring May flowers,” and May is officially here!
Spring is unfolding before our eyes, and the Catskill Mountains are trading their winter whites for a lush, vibrant green.
But if you’re in search of a flower-filled adventure that also includes some showering spectacles, look no further than Kaaterskill Falls.
As the highest cascading waterfall in New York State, it is a thundering masterpiece that is never more impressive than during the spring runoff.
The Trail: Choosing Your Vantage Point
There isn’t just one way to see the falls; your experience depends on which trailhead you choose.
- The Easy View (Laurel House Road): For a “maximum reward, minimum effort” trip, park at the Laurel House Road lot. A wide, gravel path leads you about 0.3 miles to a magnificent handicapped-accessible viewing platform. You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the double-tier drop.
- The Full Descent (Stone Staircase): If you want to feel the mist on your face, continue past the viewing platform to the stone staircase. This steep but well-maintained path leads you down to the base of the falls. It’s about 1.4 miles round-trip and will definitely get your heart rate up on the climb back out.
- The Scenic Route (Scutt Road): For a longer hike (around 3 miles), start at the Scutt Road trailhead. This connects to the Blue-marked trail and takes you through more of the “wild” forest before reaching the falls.
What To Know: Safety and Preparation
Kaaterskill Falls is as powerful as it is beautiful, and its popularity means you need to be “mountain-smart” before you head out.
- The “Six-Foot” Rule: New regulations strictly prohibit going within six feet of cliff edges (except on marked trails) or entering the water within 150 feet upstream of the falls.
- Footwear is Non-Negotiable: Leave the flip-flops at home. The stone staircases and shale paths are notoriously slick from the mist and spring rain. Sturdy hiking boots are essential.
- Leave No Trace: The area is a protected Forest Preserve. Carry out every scrap of trash, and leave the glass bottles and portable speakers at home (they are actually banned here to preserve the peace).
How To Get There From NYC
You don’t necessarily need a car to trade the subway for the springs, though it is the most flexible option.
- By Train (2.5 Hours + Taxi): Take the Amtrak or Metro-North (Hudson Line) to Hudson or Poughkeepsie. You will need to arrange a taxi or rideshare from the station, which can be pricey (often $60+), so this is best done with a group.
- By Car (2.5 Hours): Take the NYS Thruway (I-87) North to Exit 20 (Saugerties) or Exit 21 (Catskill). Follow Route 23A West, which winds up through the dramatic Kaaterskill Clove.
- By Bus (3 Hours): Trailways NY runs a line from Port Authority to Haines Falls. From the bus stop, it’s a manageable walk to the Laurel House trailhead.
