We’re going back to Kaaterskill Falls in the Catskills in honor of the Summer Solstice!
It’s about a 2-hour drive from NYC and absolutely worth it. We hiked there twice in 2019. This shot above is from behind the waterfall in August 2019. Wild!
About the trail:
When I tell you that this hike is just too good, I’m not kidding. This short but steep hike takes you to the base of one of the highest waterfalls in the Catskill Mountains. All in less than one mile, so while a tad steep, it’s ideal for beginners. The water drops 175 feet from the top, past a natural amphitheater created by the overhang of the upper falls cap rock.
We’ll also make time to rest and center ourselves so we can do a little journaling by the water and practice writing to our intuition. And, yes, there will be goodies. De nada. <3
Kaaterskill Falls
The 260 foot double-tiered waterfall is located between Haines Falls and Palenville in Greene County along NY 23A. The water drops 175 feet from the top, past a natural amphitheater created by the overhang of the upper falls cap rock. The lower falls then drop another 85 feet, spraying mist against the sides of rock.
*This is a popular hike so the parking lot can get full, please get there early! From the parking lot to the trail head is about a 5 minute walk on the road, so we will be meeting in the parking lot.
Directions to Lower Trailhead:
Heading northbound, take the New York State Thruway to Exit 20 (Saugerties). After paying the toll, turn left onto Routes 212/32 and cross over the Thruway. At the first traffic light, turn right onto Route 32 North (if you are heading southbound on the Thruway and take exit 20, you will exit directly on to Route 32 and take a right to follow Route 32 North). In 6.0 miles, continue straight ahead onto Route 32A, as Route 32 turns right. In 1.9 miles, turn left onto Route 23A, which climbs through Kaaterskill Clove. Just past a bridge over a stream at Bastion Falls, you'll notice the start of the Kaaterskill Falls Trail on the right. Continue ahead to the parking area for the falls, on the left side of the road. Please note that the parking area is rather small and that parking is not allowed on Route 23A. Walk back along the road to the start of the Kaaterskill Falls Trail.
What to Pack:
Hiking Shoes or Boots (please do not wear mesh sneakers)
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Water - Two quarts per person is recommended in every season.
Food - Snacks/lunch will keep you going as you burn energy walking or climbing. Nuts, seeds, and chocolate are favorites on the trail.
Breakdown:
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Welcome/Smudging/Introductions
10:30 AM - 1:00 PM: Hike in
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Snacks & Rest/Guided journaling session
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Hike back/Closing circle
Includes:
- Spiritual guided hike
- Energy cleanse with sage
- Journaling session out in the woods
- Goodie Bag: Reclama hiking journal, motivational postcard, and more!
IMPORTANT UPDATES: PLEASE BE IN GOOD HEALTH, VACCINATED AND PACK A FACE MASK IN CASE WE RUN INTO A BIG GROUP.
Refunds are not available but you can transfer your ticket to someone else. If it rains, the hike will be rescheduled for the following day.
