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Water & Ice · United States

Kaaterskill Falls

A majestic two-tiered waterfall in the Catskills, beloved by Hudson River School painters and autumn foliage seekers alike.

When
May — Oct, peak Sep — May
Best viewing
A moderately strenuous forested hike leads to a dramatic two-stage waterfall with stunning views year-round, peaking in spring flow and autumn color.
Category
Water & Ice
Status
Peak season

About this spectacle

Kaaterskill Falls is a two-tiered waterfall tucked into the Catskill Mountains of New York, celebrated as one of the tallest waterfalls in the northeastern United States. Visitors follow a forested trail through hemlock and hardwood stands before the cascade reveals itself in a dramatic drop of roughly 260 feet across two stages. The sound builds before the view does — a steady roar amplified by the narrow gorge walls. In spring the flow is thunderous with snowmelt; summer brings emerald moss and cool mist against the heat; autumn transforms the surrounding hillside into a blaze of orange and red, making this one of the most photographed fall-foliage scenes in the Northeast. Winter visitors encounter ice formations and frozen curtains clinging to the ledge, though icy trails demand caution. The overlook platform offers a clear sightline to the upper falls, while hardier hikers can scramble closer to the base.

When to go

May — Oct, peak Sep — May

Getting there

Nearest airport: ALB. Nearest city: Kingston.

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