April showers bring waterfalls, flowers, and plenty of reasons to restore your spirits. Whether it’s family time, friend time or alone time, Ulster County has the food, fun and tranquility for the perfect spring renewal escape.
Chasing Waterfalls
As temperatures warm and the snow melts water can be found pouring over the rocks at some of our most scenic spots. At Minnewaska State Park Preserve, you’ll find five waterfalls and hikes in varying lengths and difficulty. But trust us: They all lead to an Instagram-worthy shot!
Insider tip: Now is the best time to hike to Verkeederkill Falls, in the Sam’s Point section of the preserve and the highest waterfall in the Shawangunk Mountains. Starting April 1, parking at Sam’s Point will be limited to three-hour timed ticketed entrance only Friday through Sunday. Reserve your spot now.
And, if you prefer chasing waterfalls with a farm-to-table dinner and craft cocktail in your hand, your best bet is hitting the deck at Diamond Mills Tavern, in Saugerties.
Family Time Refresh
Hit the trails with the whole family as the weather gets warmer! Hiking for all levels can be found at Mohonk Preserve. Or take your family to the Ashokan Rail Trail. This 11.5-mile trail, framed by the Catskills, runs along the shore of the Ashokan Reservoir. When you’re finished, hit Bread Alone’s new Boiceville cafe and the country’s first carbon neutral baker.
Or explore the county wilds with Rail Explorers, cruising the historic Ulster & Delaware Railroad in your own peddle assisted rail car — no hiking necessary. Book early as these sell out quickly.
For those families who would rather ride, check out the trolly ride at the Trolly Museum of New York and the Catskill Mountain Railroad featuring the Easter Bunny Express and Spring Flier, in April.
More family fun can be found on horseback at Rocking Horse Ranch where horseback rides happen twice daily. When you’re ready for downtime with loved ones, relax at a cozy, beautifully historic lodge like Shandaken Inn – with prime Catskill hiking in the backyard for whenever you need a stroll.
Feel the Romance Bloom
You and your partner will find a wealth of opportunities to grow closer and renew the romance in Ulster County. Be it a luxury experience in the heart of Uptown Kingston at Hotel Kinsley, or a quiet retreat at Hasbrouck House. Between delicious farm-to-table dining and craft beverage tasting, catch music that ranges from American to country, folk and rock at Bearsville Theater or take in the majestic beauty of art and earthwork sculpture at Opus 40 while listening to jazz. Most importantly, relax together in a private, beautiful setting for an amazing spring renewal.
Renew With Your Crew
Relive the good times and make new memories with your best friend group over flights of local brews at a distillery, brewery, winery or a farm-to-table restaurant. For your girl group or best friends, spend the day sipping wine in style at Nostrano Vineyards or enjoying craft on the deck of Hudson House, a 100-year-old monastery sitting on the banks of the Hudson River. World-class spa treatments at Emerson Resort & Spa or Mohonk Mountain House. When you need more downtime, Hutton Brickyards offers elevated, cozy cabins and indoor/outdoor lounge spaces perfect for relaxed
