The Best Catskill Waterfalls

1. Kaaterskill Falls

2. Plattekill Falls

3. Artist Waterfalls

4. Mine Kill Falls

5. Diamond Notch Waterfalls

The Catskill Mountains of upstate New York are a natural oasis waiting to be explored. The region’s rugged landscape combine with the numerous creeks and brooks to create breathtaking waterfalls at every turn. While there are countless waterfalls and cascades throughout the region these are the best Catskill waterfalls. 

Kaaterskill Falls – Haines Falls, NY

Kaaterskill Falls is the most famous and recognizable Catskill Mountain waterfall and for good reason. This two tiered waterfall measures over 260 feet in total making it one of the tallest waterfalls on the east coast. It is no wonder Kaaterskill Falls was the focal point of so many early American painters and continues to draw nature lovers to the area. You can easily view Kaaterskill Falls from an observation platform which is located a short walk from Laurel House Road in Haines Falls.

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Plattekill Falls – Hunter, NY

The Plattekill Creek features a series of cascading waterfalls with the largest being Plattekill Falls which measures over 65 feet. While this waterfalls doesn’t draw the crowds that are common at Kaaterskill Falls it certainly offers big time views. Better yet there are other Catskill’s waterfalls on the same section of this creek such as Old Mill Falls. This means with a short walk you can likely find a secluded area to enjoy the natural beauty. Plattekill Falls is most easily accessed from the parking area on Josh Road and surrounding trails.

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Artist Waterfalls – Round Top, NY

Artist Falls is located on the grounds of Winter Clove Inn & Resort in Round Top, NY. While the waterfalls are only a short walk from the parking area the rugged cliffs and dense forest surrounding the waterfalls provide a sense of remoteness. The Alfred Clark Covered Bridge sits atop the waterfall providing you with the chance to view this Catskill waterfall from both above and below. You can also choose to explore the surrounding trail network which will take you past many smaller creeks, waterfalls, and cascades. All of this combines to make this one of the best waterfalls in the Catskills and a great place to spend the day exploring the mountains. You can easily reach Artist Falls from any of the parking areas at Winter Clove Inn.

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Mine Kill Falls – Gilboa, NY

Located in the Mine Kill State Park this three tiered waterfall combines for a total drop of over 80 feet. A series of viewing platforms and hiking trails provide views of all three falls. While the middle falls has the single largest drop it is the third or lowest falls that is one of the truly unique catskill mountain waterfalls. Here the water is funneled into a narrow gorge in the bed rock as it flows down the rugged cliffs. In addition to the waterfalls, Mine Kill State Park provides many other outdoor activities such as swimming, disc golf, and of course hiking. You can access the waterfalls from the parking area 1/2 mile south of the main park entrance.

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Diamond Notch Waterfalls – Lexington, NY

While this waterfalls requires roughly a mile long hike each way, the views are well worth the effort. The dual waterfalls measure about 25 feet and drop into a natural amphitheater like setting. The secluded setting means you very well might be the only visitors at this Catskill waterfalls making for a peaceful and relaxing day. You can reach Diamond Notch Falls from the parking area on Spruceton Road and then following the Diamond Notch Trail for approximately 1 mile.

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Looking to explore all the Catskill Mountains have to offer? Make a weekend out of it and stay at Winter Clove Inn & Resort.

Contact us today to start planning your dream Catskills getaway.