Explore the town of Woodstock and hike Overlook Mountain
Our journey begins with a morning pickup in Newark before we drive north into the heart of the Catskills. Our first adventure takes us up the historic trail of Overlook Mountain, where a fire tower, old hotel ruins, and sweeping views of the Hudson River Valley and surrounding peaks greet us at the summit. After our hike, we’ll explore the vibrant town of Woodstock, famed for its artsy charm and connection to music history. In the evening, we transfer to Hunter, where we check in to our hotel and enjoy a hearty welcome dinner. Lunch and dinner included.
Hiking: 4.5 miles; Elevation gain/loss: 1,434’; Van transfer: 3 hours
Summit Hunter Mountain
Today, we tackle Hunter Mountain, the second-highest peak in the Catskills and the toughest hike on our trip. Our ascent takes us through dense forests and steep sections, leading to the 4040’ summit where the Hunter Mountain Fire Tower awaits. At the top of the tower, we’re rewarded with 360’ breathtaking vistas that include the Catskill Mountains, the Berkshires, the Hudson River Valley, the Taconics, and sometimes (on a clear day) you can see the Manhattan skyline! After our challenging hike, we return to Hunter for some well-deserved relaxation at our hotel. In the evening, we head to a local restaurant for dinner. All meals included.
Hiking: 8 miles; Elevation gain/loss: 2,138’/2,145’; Van transfer: 1 hour
Hike to Kaaterskill Falls & Kayak at Susan’s Pleasant Pheasant Farm
Today we check out of our hotel and embark on a scenic hike to Kaaterskill Falls, the tallest two-tier waterfall in New York. We continue onto the Escarpment Loop, where panoramic views unfold before us. Afterward, we head to Susan's Pleasant Pheasant Farm for an afternoon of kayaking on the farm’s peaceful waters, with opportunities for hiking and swimming. In the late afternoon, we transfer to our home for our final night together, small, private cabins nestled in a serene forest of oak, spruce, and pine. After getting settled in, we’ll enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant before returning to our cabins for a peaceful evening. All meals included.
Hiking: 4-6 miles; Elevation gain/loss: up to 1,531’/1536’; Kayaking: 1-2 hours; Van transfer: 2.5 hours
Paddle the Hudson River and return to Newark
You’ll want to rise a little early this morning, but no need to get out of bed just yet. Watch a family of deer hunt for acorns just a few feet away from the warmth of your cozy bed. Just outside, your guide is preparing coffee and a delicious breakfast to fuel our final adventure together. After we pack up, we head to Athens for a scenic kayaking adventure on the Hudson River. After a couple of hours paddling along this historic waterway, we begin our drive to Newark, stopping for a celebratory farewell lunch along the way. We return to Newark late this afternoon and bid farewell. Breakfast and lunch included.
Kayaking: 2-3 hours; Van transfer: 2.5 hours