Spooky Shops for the Inner Witch
Outings the Whole Family Will Enjoy Spring Fairs and Summer Festivals
Six Thrilling Waterfall Hikes
find joy and make memories.
Our creative spirit is alive all around. Savor a delightful meal, a sweet treat, or an inventive cocktail. Sway to rockin’ concerts and foot-stomping musicals. Watch an eagle sore or score one on the greens. Indulge in spa treatments or meditative yoga. Take a goat hike or an alpaca walk. Jump in a lake or raft a river. Joy and memories await.
June
June
July
7: Catskills BBQ Grahamsville Fairgrounds
26-28: Legends of the LPGA Golf Tournament Resorts World Catskills
27: Barenaked Ladies — Bethel Woods
PLANT YOUR DREAMS AND WATCH THEM GROW.
At Adams, we pride ourselves on offering plants, supplies and expertise you won’t find anywhere else, just waiting to make your garden the talk of the town. In addition to hundreds of plants, imagine your home and garden adorned with the rich colors of Azalea and Hydrangea bushes, flowering and shade trees and lush greenery. Add a stone walkway or privacy fence and complete your dream garden goals! Visit our Garden Centers, Nurseries and Backyard Businesses today, and let us help make your garden dreams come true!
O ur t rain rides depar t f rom t he his t ori c Hud s on Valle y c i t y o f K ings t o n and t ravel up t hrough t he Ca ts kill G a t ewa y a t Hurle y Moun t ain . E njo y t he views f rom our vin t age c oa c he s or open-air c ar s .
42 Years o f F am il y Fun Tra in R id e s
To pur c hase t i ck e ts, and f or more in f orma t ion abou t all our unique t h emed ride s, v isi t : ca t skill m o untai n r ail r oa d . c o m
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Hudson Valley Map
10
Food & Drink
Now Serving: Fresh Bites
A new crop of Hudson Valley restaurants blends bold flavors, local ingredients, and big-city talent in distinctly regional settings.
18
Accommodations
Pitch Perfect: Glamping
Glamping goes luxe in the Hudson Valley and Catskills, where wild meets cozy in unforgettable stays.
24
Craft Beverage Sake to Me
Dassai Blue brings world-class sake brewing to Hyde Park, blending Japanese tradition with Hudson Valley craft, architecture, and culinary culture in a destination setting across from the Culinary Institute of America.
29 Shopping Let’s Get Metaphysical Spooky shops for the inner witch.
32 Events
Culture in Full Bloom
The season’s offerings include craft fairs, theater, and Weird Al Yankovic!
38 Family Fun Outings with Offspring
Water parks, a zoo, and the new Peppa Pig Playground are on the itinerary.
40 Outdoors Waterfall Hikes
Enjoy the cascading cataracts on these six breathtaking hikes.
Zoom Flume Water Park, East Durham
EXPERIENCE CORNWALL IN 2025!
Join us in Cornwall, NY, for a year full of unforgettable festivals & community celebrations set against the stunning backdrop of the Hudson River.
RIVERFEST 2025
UPSTATE ART WEEKEND
CORNWALL FALL FESTIVAL
Sunday, June 1 11 AM – 6 PM Sunday, September 21
Make 2025 your year to explore, celebrate, and connect in Cornwall!
Scan QR Code for more information
EDITORIAL
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Karen Angel, Marie Doyon, Anne Pyburn Craig, Liam Drauf, Melissa Esposito, David McIntyre
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Amara Projansky amara@explorethehudsonvalley.com
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SCAN TO SHOP
The Ridge by Mill House, Highland
Courtesy of The Ridge by Mill House
Saint Florian, Hudson Barbue, Poughkeepsie
NOW SERVING: FRESH BITES
BY LIAM DRAUF
Across the Hudson Valley, a new wave of restaurants is redefining what it means to eat local. From reimagined roadhouses to French-inflected bistros, Korean fine dining in the Catskills to Southern comfort in suburban Poughkeepsie, this season’s crop of openings is as varied as the region itself. Many of these new ventures are helmed by chefs with big-city chops who’ve chosen to build something slower, more intentional, and deeply rooted in place. Whether it’s a James Beard Award-winning pastry chef baking pies in Kingston or a New Orleans native bringing gumbo to Dutchess County, the unifying thread is creativity—and a reverence for ingredients. Here are 10 new restaurants worth the detour, reservation, or return visit.
Hy’s Fried EGREMONT
Set along Route 23 in South Egremont, Hy’s Fried is a roadside roadhouse reimagined— glowing red inside and out, with a lively atmosphere and standout gluten-free fried chicken. Owner Jack Luber brings deep hospitality experience to the concept, which balances Southern and Korean flavors with crisp texture and juicy interior. Almost everything on the menu is gluten-free, including sides like dumpling soup and cauliflower. On weekends, Hy’s becomes a community hub, hosting DJ nights, bingo, and monthly LGBTQ+ events. With plans to expand, Hy’s Fried is quickly becoming a regional favorite for both its food and festive energy.
The Ridge by Mill House HIGHLAND
Photo by Christopher Testani
In 2024, when former German restaurant Gunk Haus in Highland hit the market, owners of Poughkeepsie’s beloved Mill House Brewing Company jumped at the chance to take over the historic hospitality spot with its iconic views of the Gunks. The Ridge, which opened March 26, differentiates itself from the industrial-chic brewery across the river by focusing more on its dining options, with
no onsite brewing, and an elevated-woodsy charm more fitting of its surroundings. The menu of playful, American fare includes options like a 22-ounce New York strip steak for two, dry-aged in house, served on a handmade board; and inventive small plates include swordfish skewers with salsa verde and Calabrian chili; pork belly with Chinese five-spice; and a classic dry-aged beef burger, as well as various vegetarian, gluten-free, and kids menu options. At the bar, there are 12 of Mill House’s core brews on tap, plus craft cocktails.
Threshold LIVINGSTON MANOR
Located in the Catskills town of Livingston Manor, Threshold offers a modern take on Korean cuisine rooted in tradition and seasonality. Chef and co-owner Thom Chun crafts a thoughtful, evolving menu that balances bold Korean flavors with the sensibilities of fine dining. Dishes range from crispy kimchi pancakes to delicately grilled meats and seasonal vegetable sides, all served in a sleek, wood-accented dining room with an open kitchen. With its understated elegance and focus on high-quality ingredients, Threshold has quickly become a regional dining destination.
Bistrot Le Chat Barbu ROSENDALE
After a decade of private cheffing in New York City, Devin Delgado realized he was ready for
something different. Recognizing an urge to cook “grandma food”—hearty, classic dishes but with the best ingredients available, he ended up renting the former Rosendale Cafe space. After an intensive reno, his bistro Le Chat Barbu opened in mid-March, serving seasonal, locally sourced French cuisine and fare from former French colonies. Aside from some staples like coq au vin and French onion soup, which will always be available, expect a rotating menu. An early favorite is the tender beef short ribs served with mashed potatoes, pearl onions, bacon, roasted mushrooms, and red wine jus ($38). Baked in a clay pot, the hearty, plant-based vegan pot pie has been a surprise hit, with a filling that includes potato, Brussels sprouts, spinach, and root veggies in a coconut curry gravy ($28). The menu also includes canapes like stuffed button mushrooms ($7) and escargots in a garlic-parsley butter served in a puff pastry ($18).
Manor Rock HUDSON
Located in a historic townhouse on Hudson’s Warren Street, Manor Rock is a seasonal, farm-driven dining experience rooted in the rhythms of the land. Chefs Nate Allen and Kate Bell source much of the menu from their nearby Manor Rock Farm in Taghkanic, where they raise heritage-breed pigs and chickens and grow heirloom vegetables. The result is an evolving, thoughtful menu
Photo by Jerry Cohen, courtesy of SCVA
Threshold, Livingston Manor
that emphasizes connection—to place, to ingredients, and to community. With a warm, minimalist interior and a focus on sustainability, Manor Rock offers an elegant yet grounded take on Hudson Valley cuisine.
Saint Florian HUDSON
Saint Florian is a moody, mid-centuryinspired steakhouse in Hudson co-owned by chef Robert Finn and housed in a converted auto garage on Union Street. With a menu centered on dry-aged prime rib—served in three cuts and carved to order—alongside oysters Rockefeller, wedge salads, and martinis poured tableside, the restaurant evokes the glamour of a vintage New York chophouse. The red leather booths, low lighting, and vinyl soundtrack complete the atmosphere. Saint Florian offers a tightly edited, high-impact experience that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
Barbue POUGHKEEPSIE
Barbue brings a taste of New Orleans to Eastdale Village in Poughkeepsie, offering a modern take on Cajun and Creole cuisine. Co-owned by Louisiana native Ryan Viator and business partner Sean Weeks, the duo
behind Buns burgers, the restaurant serves up Southern staples like gumbo, shrimp and grits, and boudin egg rolls, along with inventive dishes inspired by Gulf Coast traditions. The space balances rustic charm with contemporary flair, and the bar features New Orleans classics like the Sazerac and French 75. With its festive atmosphere and bold flavors, Barbue delivers the spirit of the Big Easy to the Hudson Valley.
Pinkerton’s KINGSTON
Pinkerton’s, the new bakery-cafe in Kingston is the latest project from acclaimed pastry chef Angela Pinkerton. The shop offers a changing menu of seasonal pastries, tarts, pies, cookies, and cakes—each crafted with precision and care. A James Beard Award winner, Pinkerton brings fine-dining technique to a relaxed, neighborhood bakery. The space is bright and welcoming, With its focus on high-quality ingredients, creative flavors, and casual charm, Pinkerton’s has quickly become a go-to spot for both everyday treats and special-occasion indulgence.
Panacea AMENIA
Nestled in the former Serevan space in Amenia, Panacea is a New American restaurant led by chefs and co-owners Jacob Somers and Khendum Namgyal, alumni of Union Square Cafe. The menu changes weekly, driven by local, seasonal ingredients and anchored by Namgyal’s standout housemade pastas. Dishes like campanelle with shrimp and confit garlic or the Somers’ Smash Burger showcase a balance of comfort and finesse. With a cozy, understated interior and a focus on hospitality, Panacea offers a refined but approachable dining experience.
Lyonshare Public House BEACON
Opened by Peter Luger alum Bud Schmeling, Lyonshare Public House brings classic tavern fare and warm hospitality to Beacon’s east end. Set in a restored 19th-century brick building, the restaurant balances old-world charm with a polished, modern sensibility. The menu focuses on high-quality ingredients—dry-aged steaks, house-made pastas, and seasonal sides—alongside a smart cocktail program and curated wine list. Schmeling’s vision combines the polish of fine dining with the comfort of a neighborhood pub, making Lyonshare a welcome addition to Beacon’s growing food scene. The vibe is relaxed yet refined.
Lyonshare Public House, Beacon
STRAIGHT TO THE DOMES
One of the most architecturally striking dispensaries in the Hudson Valley and perhaps all of New York, Kingston’s Domes Dispensary is impossible to miss. Two geodesic domes seem to hover in space on Route 28, just off of I-87’s exit 19, catching the eye of every passerby.
The domes were originally the brainchild of locals Valerie and Joe Stote, who dreamed of a community hub and garden center. That creative spirit lives on, with the space now doubling as a venue for after-hours music events. Under its cathedral-like ceiling, the domes’ acoustics rival a Juilliard concert hall.
Domes Dispensary officially debuted on November 27, 2024—Green Wednesday, the cannabis world’s answer to Black Friday— with neighbors gathering from nearby Hurley, Woodstock, Saugerties, Rhinebeck, and Hudson. Owners Jennifer Dundas and David Tivnan have built a dispensary that feels as curated as it is welcoming, with a skylit interior and an emphasis on supporting New York’s small farms. They go beyond just selling cannabis; they regularly host farmers and
educate staff on sustainable cultivation.
The shelves are stocked with flower, prerolls, vaporizers, tinctures, edibles, and accessories, while knowledgeable budtenders help customers find their perfect match— whether they’re first-timers or seasoned connoisseurs looking to switch things up.
With its bold design, deep community ties, and thoughtfully sourced products, Domes Dispensary is a standout in the Hudson Valley and Catskills region’s growing cannabis scene.
+ Domes Dispensary, Kingston Domesdispensary.com Produced by the Chronogram Media Branded Content Studio.
License number: OCM-RETL-24-000066. Concerned about your cannabis use? Contact the New York State HOPELine by texting “HopeNY”, calling 1-877-8-HOPENY, or visiting oasas.ny.gov/HOPELine.
CLIMB HIGH
Explore Delaware County’s Historic Fire Towers
Rugged, scenic, and rich with history, Delaware County invites adventurers to explore its skyward sentinels: the Bramley Mountain and Mt. Utsayantha fire towers. Once part of a statewide fire detection system, these towers now offer hikers and wanderers panoramic views, rich local lore, and a deep breath of Catskills air.
From 1908 to 1950, New York State built nearly 100 fire towers atop peaks in the Catskills and beyond, placing human eyes at key vantage points to spot forest fires before they could spread. While satellites and other technologies have largely replaced them, the towers remain—repurposed as hiking destinations that reward a climb with sweeping views and a glimpse into the past.
Bramley Mountain Fire Tower
Originally erected in 1950, the Bramley Mountain Fire Tower once stood on private land, keeping watch over the forest. Decommissioned in 1970, it was sold for 50 dollars to fifth-generation dairy farm, Clark Farms—with the odd caveat that the buyer had to move it themselves. After
years in limbo, the tower was restored and reopened on January 4 of this year, thanks to a dedicated community effort.
The Bramley Mountain Trail, a popular four-mile loop of moderate difficulty, leads to the tower’s summit. The path winds through hardwood forests, past rocky outcrops, and along an abandoned bluestone quarry before arriving at the 80-foot tower. From the top, hikers are treated to uninterrupted 360-degree views of the western Catskills.
After a hike, head to nearby Delhi to refuel. Grab a comforting meal at Blue Bee Café or savor a refined dinner at EightyMain. For browsing and treasure hunting, visit Rabbit Boy Vintage, The Lost Bookshop, and The Stonehouse—each brimming with local charm and one-of-a-kind finds.
Mt. Utsayantha Fire Tower
Set above the village of Stamford, Mt. Utsayantha rises to 3,214 feet and offers one of the region’s most accessible fire-tower experiences. The mountain is named after an Indigenous woman whose story is woven into local legend, and the views from its summit are as memorable as the mythology.
View from Mt. Utsayantha
A 2.3-mile trail leads hikers through fields and woodlands, lined with wildflowers in spring and summer. For those less inclined to hoof it, there’s a drive-up road to the summit. There, visitors will find a wooden platform used for hang-gliding launches, picnic areas, and the historic fire tower—still standing tall and offering jaw-dropping views of the northern Catskills.
Stamford, once called the “Queen of the Catskills,” remains a charming outpost with big personality. Warm up with a cup of coffee from Stamford Coffee or settle in for a satisfying lunch at T. P.’s Cafe. Shoppers can explore Catskill Outpost, Tandem Antiques, and Catskill Junction, all filled with regional goods and antiques that reflect the area’s history and style.
Beyond the Towers
Want to make a day of any fire-tower excursion? There’s plenty more to enjoy nearby. Just a short drive from either tower is the West Kortright Center, a cultural hub in East Meredith that hosts concerts, performances, and an annual film festival. In the nearby hamlet of Meredith, dine on locally sourced fare at Stonewall at the Meredith Inn, then swing by cookbook author Alison Roman’s First Bloom Corner Store in Bloomville for a curated selection of high-end pantry items, local produce, baked goods, and giftable small-batch goods to bring back home.
With 19 towns spread across its hills and valleys, Delaware County offers more than just views. It’s a place to slow down, breathe deep, and wander well—whether summiting a fire tower, browsing antique shops, or kicking back with a cup of coffee in a Catskills cafe.
+ Greatwesterncatskills.com
Photo by Rikka Olson
Photo courtesy of Friends of Bramley Mountain Fire Tower
Bramley Mountain Fire Tower
West Kortright Center, East Meredith
Photo courtesy of West Kortright Center
PITCH PERFECT: GLAMPING
BY LIAM DRAUF
Gatherwild Ranch, Germantown
If the thought of sleeping on the ground gives you pause but you still crave a taste of the great outdoors, glamping might be your golden ticket. The Hudson Valley and Catskills are dotted with stylish, semiwild escapes where you can soak in mountain views, wander forest trails, and stargaze by the fire—without sacrificing creature comforts. Think king-size beds in canvas tents, Airstreams with spa bathrooms, and tiny cabins with floor-to-ceiling windows. Whether you’re after peace and quiet, architectural elegance, or a funky familyfriendly getaway (complete with geodesic domes and food trucks), there’s a stay that suits your vibe. From the storied grounds of the Woodstock Festival to the giraffe barn of a former zoo, this roundup of standout glamping spots offers something for every flavor of traveler—no sleeping bag required.
The Stay at Liberty Farms GHENT
The Stay at Liberty Farms offers a boutique glamping experience on over 600 acres of serene, certified organic farmland. Just minutes from Hudson, this retreat features 10 luxurious canvas cabins, each boasting king-size beds, en-suite bathrooms with rain showers, and private decks perfect for soaking in the picturesque surroundings. At the heart of the site lies The Nest, a central lodge with cozy lounge areas, communal cooking facilities, and a camp store stocked with local provisions. Whether you’re unwinding by the nightly communal fire pit or exploring the nearby cultural attractions, The Stay seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern comforts.
Postcard Cabins
ROSCOE AND CATSKILL
Postcard Cabins offers minimalist, designforward escapes in two prime Catskills locations. The Roscoe site (Western Catskills) is tucked into a forested hillside with access to trails, trout streams, and stargazing galore. The Catskill location (Eastern Catskills) is just 10 minutes from Hudson and set on 60 private acres, with open meadows, fire pits, and views of the Taconic Hills. Both spots feature tiny, Scandi-chic cabins with floorto-ceiling windows, kitchenettes, and a cozymodern aesthetic that invites you to unplug and slow down. It’s cabin life, curated—ideal
for couples, solo resets, or a quiet weekend with friends.
The Old Game Farm CATSKILL
For a truly wild getaway, pitch your tent or book a glamping stay at The Old Game Farm, site of the former Catskill Game Farm. Set on 200 secluded acres in Greene County, this quirky destination blends history and nature: Campers can wander the abandoned zoo grounds or book the Long Neck Inn, built into the old giraffe barn. Glamping tents offer queen beds, decks, and access to communal kitchens and fire pits. It’s part nostalgia trip, part back-to-nature retreat—perfect for those who like their wilderness with a dash of weird charm.
Gatherwild Ranch GERMANTOWN
Tucked into 15 rolling acres just outside Germantown, Gatherwild Ranch offers a low-key, design-savvy glamping experience rooted in simplicity and stewardship. Spacious canvas tents come with real beds, outdoor showers, and front porches perfect for sunset watching. Guests share a communal outdoor kitchen, fire pit, and herb garden, and are encouraged to slow down, unplug, and reconnect—with nature, with others, or just with themselves. Chickens roam, the stars are bright, and the vibe is more soulful retreat than Instagram sideshow. Ideal for quiet weekends or group buyouts with intention.
Camping at Bethel Woods BETHEL
Sleep where history was made in Sullivan County. Camping at Bethel Woods lets you overnight on the hallowed grounds of the 1969 Woodstock Festival, just steps from the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. Whether you’re there for a concert or just the vibes, choose from tranquil tent sites, RV hookups, or glamping tents with real beds and private decks. On-site perks include clean restrooms, showers, fire pits, and a general store stocked with essentials. Peace, love, and convenience—plus a front-row seat to both past and present cultural moments.
Gather Greene COXSACKIE
Perched on a forested ridge in Coxsackie with views of the Berkshires, Gather Greene blends architectural elegance with natural immersion. Each of the 17 minimalist cabins
features a wall of glass that opens onto a private deck, plus luxe touches like king beds, rainfall showers, and built-in sound systems. While the vibe is restful retreat, the 100-acre property also hosts weddings, events, and outdoor yoga. Deer might stroll by your window at dawn; by evening, you’re sipping wine under the stars. It’s the Catskills, elevated—perfect for romantics, design lovers, and anyone in need of a stylish exhale.
AutoCamp Catskills SAUGERTIES
AutoCamp Catskills brings retro-chic lodging to the woods of Saugerties, pairing midcentury Airstreams with sleek modern cabins and luxury tents. Each unit comes with a spa-style bathroom, comfy beds, and curated design touches that nod to classic Americana. The central clubhouse—complete with fire pits, a canteen, and lounge space—is a hub for socializing or grabbing a morning coffee before heading out to hike, bike, or browse nearby towns. It’s glamping with polish, just two hours from New York City, and perfectly positioned for weekenders looking to blend outdoor adventure with boutique hotel vibes.
Treetopia CATSKILL
Treetopia offers a playful mashup of classic campground and boutique retreat. Choose from tent sites, retro RVs, Airstreams, and whimsical glamping options like safari tents and geodesic domes—each with its own funky flair. Amenities include a saltwater pool, general store, community fire pits, and weekend events from food trucks to movie nights. Located minutes from downtown Catskill and the Hudson River, Treetopia is equal parts campy and comfy, making it a hit with families, friend groups, and anyone craving fresh air with a side of fun.
Bellfire Farm ROXBURY
Tucked into the hills of Delaware County, Bellfire Farm offers a dreamy, off-grid glamping escape on a 10-acre flower farm. With just two canvas tents—each hand-built and solar-powered—this is a truly intimate Catskills retreat. Expect king-size beds, wood stoves, private decks, and outdoor kitchens, all with sweeping mountain views. The vibe is quiet, romantic, and deeply connected to the land. Wander the wildflower fields, stargaze by the fire pit, or just soak in the silence. Bellfire is for those who want to unplug fully and wake up to birdsong, not bandwidth.
AutoCamp Catskills, Saugerties
Bellfire Farm, Roxbury
Photo by Matt Kisiday
SIP, SAVOR, AND SOAK IN THE SEASON
Framed by the lush vines and greenery of Red Maple Vineyard, RMV Cellars is more than a tasting room—it’s a celebration of craft and community. Home to Great Life Brewing, RMV Cellars blends winery, brewery, and restaurant into a single experience, showcasing award-winning wines by Madi Marshall and award-winning beers by Cody Lynch, alongside a globally inspired, seasonally driven menu by head chef Sara Gonzalez.
With a commitment to farm-to-table fare, ingredients are sourced whenever possible from the 143-acre former dairy farm, including fresh eggs, maple sap (used in the crisp Sap Sucker beer), hot peppers for house-made sauces, berries for jam, and vine-ripened grapes for wine. Soon, homegrown hops will join the mix.
Here, food and drink come together in a sustainable, creative fusion. Spent grain from brewing is baked into rich brownies; house wines are turned into delicate wine jellies. The menu ranges from shareable bites like a Bavarian pretzel and gorgonzola-fig flatbread to hearty
plates like grilled mahi mahi with mango slaw.
But RMV Cellars is more than just a place to sip. Guests are encouraged to linger—roam the grounds, mingle, or simply unwind. Live music fills the air every Friday and Saturday, with performances ranging from solo acts to full bands. The vibe is relaxed, family-friendly, and dog-friendly. Outdoors, visitors can explore a sculpture garden curated by local artists, play lawn games, or chill under the pavilion—also available for private events. In warmer months, the parrilla grill, smoker, and pizza oven fire up seasonal specialties. To be in the know about seasonal events, join the RMV Cellars mailing list via their website.
Set against the backdrop of Hudson Valley’s picturesque wine country, RMV Cellars offers a serene, scenic escape where awardwinning drinks and farm-fresh food meet in perfect harmony.
+ RMV Cellars, West Park Redmaplevineyard.com/rmvcellars
Produced by the Chronogram Media Branded Content Studio.
by
Photo
Phillip Van Nostrand
Dassai Blue sake brewery is a craft beverage destination across from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park.
SAKE TO ME
Dassai Blue Brings Japanese Craft Brewing to Hyde Park
BY MELISSA ESPOSITO AND LIAM DRAUF
In the Hudson Valley’s ever-growing constellation of craft beverage destinations, one stands apart—not for its hops or grapes, but for its rice. Just up the hill from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, an $85 million facility with sleek, wood-paneled architecture and a hushed, almost reverent air is reimagining what Americans think they know about sake.
Welcome to Dassai Blue, the first US outpost of Asahi Shuzo, one of Japan’s premier sake brewers. After years of planning, pandemic delays, and crosscultural design collaborations, Dassai Blue opened its doors in late 2023. But there’s nothing quiet about its ambition: to transform sake in the American imagination from a sushi-side curiosity into a beverage of elegance, complexity, and everyday appeal.
A Trans-Pacific Legacy
Dassai Blue is the creation of the Sakurai family, third- and fourth-generation brewers from Japan’s Yamaguchi Prefecture. Their brand, Dassai, is synonymous with ultrapremium sake—served at White House banquets and auctioned at Sotheby’s. Unlike many Japanese sake breweries that maintain a resolutely domestic focus, Asahi Shuzo has looked outward. And Hyde Park, with its culinary pedigree, scenic charm, and proximity to New York City, offered the perfect foothold.
“We chose the Hudson Valley because it’s a beautiful area with a growing interest in craft sake,” says company chairman Hiroshi Sakurai, speaking through a translator. “By establishing ourselves here, we can understand American culture and
incorporate it into the way we make highquality beverages.”
The name “Dassai Blue” itself is a nod to this cross-cultural evolution. It comes from a Japanese proverb: “Although blue dye comes from the indigo plant, it is bluer than indigo”— an homage to the student surpassing the teacher. The Hyde Park facility isn’t a copy of the original in Japan, but a bold, aspirational expansion.
Rice, Mold, and Magic
For the uninitiated, sake is made from rice, water, yeast, and koji, a fermentation mold that transforms rice starch into sugar. At Dassai Blue, the process is exacting and reverent—closer to haute cuisine than industrial brewing. Rice is polished down to a fraction of its original size (as much as 77 percent milled away for Dassai’s Type 23), then washed, steamed, inoculated with koji, fermented, and gently pressed.
The rice used—Yamada Nishiki, Japan’s prized sake rice—is still imported from Japan, although Dassai is cultivating fields in Arkansas using traditional Japanese methods. And even with high-tech tools and a potential output of 140,000 cases annually, much of the process remains painstakingly manual. “Craftsmanship by hand is still very important,” Sakurai says.
Visitors to the brewery can see this precision firsthand through guided tours. One highlight is the koji room, visible through a window, where white-clad brewers perform a kind of ritualistic choreography—dispersing spores over steaming rice in slow, deliberate motions. The effect is meditative, like watching a tea ceremony crossed with a science experiment.
A Building Worthy
of the Beverage Dassai Blue’s physical space is no afterthought. Japanese architect Jun Mitsui, known for designing high-rises and airports, worked alongside American firm CPCA to create a campus that blends Japanese aesthetics with Hudson Valley warmth. The brewery’s clean lines and wood detailing evoke traditional sake warehouses, while modern touches—like its $7 million wastewater treatment facility—signal a forward-thinking approach.
That commitment to sustainability isn’t just for show. “The water we return to the Hudson River is actually cleaner than when it came in,” Sakurai says. The system impressed regulators so much that one official reportedly called it the most beautiful wastewater plant he’d ever seen.
A Cultural Destination in Bloom
Since opening, Dassai Blue has welcomed over 11,000 visitors, and its presence as a cultural and culinary destination continues to grow. This spring, the brewery hosted its first Sakura Matsuri—a cherry blossom festival inspired by traditional Japanese hanami gatherings. Guests enjoyed sake tastings, seasonal
Photo by Phillip Van Nostrand
small plates, and live performances beneath flowering trees—a celebration of ephemeral beauty, and a toast to cross-cultural exchange.
Inside the brewery, a newly unveiled immersive tour exhibit, created in partnership with acclaimed museum design studio Local Projects, now greets visitors. The interactive experience includes a tactile wood-carved map of the brewing process, a sweeping 155-foot mural tracing Dassai’s story from rural Japan to the Hudson Valley, and a series of digital displays that explore sake’s chemistry, history, and global future.
Sushi and Sake, Perfected
As of April, Dassai Blue’s tasting room also features daily sushi service, elevating the traditional taproom model with a refined, slow-paced dining experience. A chef brought from Japan prepares seasonal selections that highlight the delicate interplay between food and sake. The offerings are intentionally small—bite-sized and artfully composed— encouraging visitors to slow down and savor. Cheese plates and Japanese-style charcuterie with locally sourced vegetables round out the menu.
Dassai Blue currently brews three types of Junmai Daiginjo sake: Type 23, Type 35, and Type 50—named for the percentage of rice left after polishing. All fall into sake’s highest-quality category, and each has its own personality: fruity and floral, rich and refined, clean and powerful.
Though modeled on its Japanese siblings, Dassai Blue’s sakes are not identical. “The terroir is different, the water is different, the climate is different,” Sakurai says. “So the taste is also a little different. But that’s a good thing.”
That philosophy—of honoring tradition while embracing transformation—suffuses the entire project. In Japan, Dassai helped revive a dying brewery and elevated it to international renown. In Hyde Park, it’s doing something similar: not just brewing sake, but cultivating a new culture around it.
“We’re not afraid to try something different,” Sakurai says. “We’re still based in tradition, but we build from there.”
With its architectural elegance, artisanal ethos, and a clear-eyed view of the American palate, Dassai Blue is more than just a new player in the region’s beverage scene. It’s a bridge—between past and future, East and West, simplicity and complexity. Or, as Sakurai might say, indigo and blue.
Dassai Blue recently installed an in-house sushi chef to pair sushi along with sake tasting.
by David McIntyre
LET’S GET METAPHYSICAL
BY RYAN KEEGAN
The Hudson Valley has long been home to a mix of spiritual traditions, and in recent years, interest in the occult and metaphysical has steadily grown. Across the region, shops have popped up catering to those drawn to witchcraft, divination, the occult, and alternative spirituality, offering items like crystals, tarot decks, ritual tools, and more. Many also serve as gathering places where like-minded individuals can connect. In Poughkeepsie, an informal “Witchcraft District” has emerged, where witches and occult enthusiasts have settled in historic Victorian homes, and local businesses have embraced the area’s mystical identity.
“The market has grown a lot,” says Amy C. Wilson, founder of metaphysical shop Other Worldly Waxes and the traveling market Moon Serpent and Bone, which plans to open a Beacon storefront in June. “When I started my markets, I really found a community. So many practitioners started coming out of the broom closet, so to speak, and being amongst each other. I think a lot of the draw is that
they’re looking for something deeper—coming into tune with themselves as individuals.”
Curio Cabinet POUGHKEEPSIE
Curio Cabinet of the Hudson Valley brings the macabre to Main Street, Poughkeepsie, offering antiques, vintage taxidermy, crystals, fashion, jewelry, and vinyl records. Owners Laura Bell and Ian Burns designed the space as a Victorian-style parlor with curated curio cabinets. The shop also offers custom memorial jewelry, dark floral arrangements, workshops on taxidermy and insect pinning, rotating art exhibitions, and themed events.
The Ritualist NEW PALTZ
The Ritualist in New Paltz is a modern witch shop offering curated goods for selfreflection, ritual, and empowerment. Focused on intention and inclusivity, it features tarot decks, candles, apothecary goods, and a rotating selection of plants from small makers. The shop also hosts events like aura photography and publishes Practical Magic, a newsletter on ritual and creativity.
Curio Cabinet, Poughkeepsie
Photo
Awareness Shop NEW PALTZ
For three decades, the Awareness Shop in New Paltz has provided a wide selection of metaphysical goods, including over 1,200 tarot decks, handmade spell candles, and ritual supplies. The shop is also home to the Church of the Eternal Circle, which hosts gatherings onsite. Owners Lisa and Anton Stewart offer workshops, Reiki training, and psychic readings, with a team of 10 readers working regularly.
Dreaming Goddess POUGHKEEPSIE
Named after a 6,000-year-old statue of a priestess found in an underground temple on the Island of Malta, Dreaming Goddess has been a fixture in Poughkeepsie since 1995. This woman-owned metaphysical shop offers crystals, tarot, ritual tools, and energy healing products, plus readings, workshops, and events. It also runs a used book program, donating the proceeds to charity.
Witchcraft District Bazaar POUGHKEEPSIE
Located in the heart of Poughkeepsie’s Witchcraft District, the Witchcraft District Bazaar is run by Priestess Renee M. Anderson and Reverend A.W. Storm Anderson. Since 2020, the shop has provided an eclectic selection of witchcraft supplies, including healing crystals, statues, occult books, and jewelry. In the back of the shop, Storm operates Art on You, a private tattoo studio specializing in magically charged artwork and sigil tattoos.
Crystal Connection WURTSBORO
Housed in a restored 1890s Methodist church, Crystal Connection in Wurtsboro offers one of the largest selections of crystals in the Northeast, with over 120,000 pieces from more than 420 mineral varieties. The shop features a meditation space, a Himalayan salt cave, and a crystal-themed Airbnb next door.
Crystal Connection, Wurtsboro
Notions n Potions BEACON
Established in 2010, Notions-N-Potions is a metaphysical shop in Beacon offering a range of spiritual and ritual supplies, including herbs, crystals, candles, tarot decks, and handcrafted oils. The shop provides tarot and oracle readings every weekend and hosts events like the annual Psychic Fair, scheduled for May 10 at the Elks Lodge in Beacon.
Shaman’s Dawn SAUGERTIES
Shaman’s Dawn in Saugerties offers handmade, shamanically charged spiritual products, including candles, energy-clearing sprays, bath salts, and Sastun jewelry, all blessed in shamanic ceremonies. The retail store carries a wider selection than the online shop, featuring crystals like Moldavite and Lemurian Quartz, as well as sound healing instruments and indigenous crafts.
Modern Mythology WOODSTOCK
Located in the heart of Woodstock’s town square, Modern Mythology has been a staple shop in the village for over 30 years, offering crystals, fine jewelry, and spiritual goods. The shop features items like sterling silver jewelry with amber, amethyst, and opal, along with incense, singing bowls, tarot cards, and chakra sets.
Traders of the Lost Art KINGSTON
Traders of the Lost Art in Kingston has been a destination for metaphysical and inspirational gifts since 1995. The shop offers a diverse selection of spiritual and cultural items, including Buddhist prayer wheels, Christian crosses, Egyptian statues, gemstones, tarot decks, incense, scented oils, candles, and symbolic jewelry. Fantasy and mythology enthusiasts can find dragon figurines and various wall hangings with symbolic meanings.
Luna Enchanted MARLBORO
Luna Enchanted in Marlboro is a full-service witch shop and metaphysical center led by psychic medium Luna Hacker. The shop offers spell kits, talismans, spiritual oils, incense, handcrafted magical items, crystals, statuary, and divination tools like tarot, runes, and pendulums. Luna provides psychic and mediumship readings, spiritual counseling, and energy healing, along with classes in spellcraft, astrology, and divination.
New Paltz, NY
(845) 255-1660 / info@huguenotstreet.org For more information on tours and events visit: www.huguenotstreet.org
Gallery Hours: Thurs/Sun 12-5pm Fri/Sat 12-6pm
JANE ST. ART CENTER 11 Jane St, Ste A, Saugerties, NY, 12477 (845) 217-5715 janestreetartcenter.com
Winter Hours: (Jan - Mar) Thurs-Sun, 11-5pm Regular Hours: (Apr - Dec) Wed-Sun, 11-6pm Over 35 Local Artisan Vendors
Newberry Artisan Market 236 Main St, Saugerties, NY, 12477 (845) 247-3002 newberryartisanmarket.com
SUMMER IN THE VALLEY Culture in Full Bloom
BY LIAM DRAUF
When the days get long and the hills turn green, the Hudson Valley comes alive with music, art, theater, and delightfully weird happenings. From open-air Shakespeare to world-class bluegrass, and from experimental exhibitions to accordion-fueled parody concerts, the region’s cultural calendar is as lush and varied as the landscape itself. Whether you’re a lifelong local or just passing through, these not-to-miss events are a chance to tap into the creative pulse of the region— and maybe even dance a little under the stars
Woodstock-New Paltz Art & Crafts Fair
Celebrate creativity at the 44th annual Woodstock-New Paltz Art & Crafts Fair, returning Memorial Day weekend (May 24–26, 2025) at the Ulster County Fairgrounds in New Paltz. This renowned event showcases over 200 juried artists and craftspeople from across the nation, offering unique handmade goods ranging from ceramics and jewelry to fine art and textiles. Enjoy live music, craft demonstrations, and a variety of food and
beverages, including regional wines and craft beers. A dedicated children’s tent ensures fun for the whole family.
Great Barrington Public Theater
Great Barrington Public Theater returns this summer with a bold, all-female slate of world premieres staged at the Daniel Arts Center on the campus of Bard College at Simon’s Rock. Headlining the 2025 season is “The Best Medicine” by Robin Gerber (August 1-17) a heartfelt comedy about caregiving and standup, directed by TV and theater vet Matthew Penn. Also on deck: Maggie Kearnan’s darkly comic “How to Not Save the World with Mr. Bezos” (June 5-27) and “Madame Mozart, The Lacrimosa” by Anne Undeland (July 10-27). Championing new work, local talent, and accessible pricing, GBPT continues to carve out space for fresh voices in the Berkshires.
Hudson Valley Shakespeare
The Hudson Valley Shakespeare’s 2025 season promises a rich blend of classic and contemporary theater under its iconic
Photo by Joshua Timmermans
Mountain Jam, Belleayre Mountain, Highmount
Ani DiFranco
“Unprecedented
Sh!t” Tour
Folk icon and feminist trailblazer
Ani DiFranco heads to Arrowood Farms in Accord on August 28 as part of her “Unprecedented Sh!t” tour, joined by genre-defying troubadour Hurray for the Riff Raff. Set amid the rolling fields and mountain views of this ecoconscious brewery and venue, the show promises an evening of incisive lyrics, political fire, and sonic intimacy. DiFranco’s storied catalog spans punk-inflected folk to jazz-funk grooves, while Hurray for the Riff Raff brings their own brand of soulful resistance. Expect community vibes, cold beer, and music with a message.
Photo by Shervin Lainez
open-air tent in Garrison. Kicking off with Shakespeare’s “The Comedy of Errors” (June 6–August 2), directed by Ryan Quinn, audiences can expect a whirlwind of mistaken identities and comedic chaos.
Thornton Wilder’s “The Matchmaker” (June 8–August 3), the inspiration for Hello, Dolly!, follows, featuring HVS veterans Nance Williamson and Kurt Rhoads under the direction of Artistic Director Davis McCallum. The season also includes Dave Malloy’s a cappella chamber musical “Octet” (August 11–September 7), exploring technology’s impact on human connection, directed by Amanda Dehnert. Additionally, the HVS Cabaret series (August 6–9) will showcase intimate musical works-inprogress at the on-site Valley Restaurant. The season concludes with an educational production of “Julius Caesar” (September 15–October 10), directed by Raz Golden, which will tour local schools and community venues. This lineup offers a diverse theatrical experience amidst the scenic Hudson Valley backdrop.
“The Arrested Image: Identity Through the Lens of Law Enforcement”
This summer, the Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art at SUNY New Paltz presents “The Arrested Image: Identity Through the Lens of Law Enforcement” (June 14-November 2), an incisive exhibition curated by Sophie Landres. Exploring the intersection of photography and policing, the show traces the evolution of identity representation from 19th-century mugshots to contemporary biometric data. Featuring works like Harun Farocki’s I Thought I was Seeing Convicts (2000), the exhibition challenges viewers to consider pressing issues of justice, privacy, and surveillance in today’s technological landscape.
Mountain Jam
After a six-year hiatus, Mountain Jam makes its much-anticipated return to the Hudson Valley from June 20–22, at its new home on Belleayre Mountain in Highmount. This iconic festival, independently produced by its original creators and Radio Woodstock, promises an intimate experience with a stellar lineup. Headliners include the genreblending Khruangbin on Friday, indie rockers Mt. Joy on Saturday, and jam band favorites
THE COMEDY OF ERRORS
Jun 6 - Aug 2
THE MATCHMAKER
Jun 8- Aug 3
OCTET
Aug 11 - Sept 7
George Rickey (1907–2002), Space Churn Red (3 of 3),
Stainless steel with red paint, 13 ft x 6 ft, Collection George Rickey Foundation, Inc
Goose closing out the festival on Sunday. Additional acts feature Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, Trampled by Turtles, and Michael Franti and Spearhead.
“All Manner of Experiments”
This summer, the Hessel Museum of Art at Bard College presents “All Manner of Experiments: Legacies of the Baghdad Group for Modern Art” (June 21-October 19), the first comprehensive US exhibition of Iraq’s influential postcolonial modernist collective. Curated by renowned scholar Nada Shabout, the show traces the Group’s visionary fusion of Islamic, Mesopotamian, and Western aesthetics from the 1950s to today. Featuring rarely seen works by artists like Jewad Selim and Dia al-Azzawi alongside archival materials and newsreels, the exhibition reframes global modernism through an Iraqi lens.
Weird Al Yankovic “Bigger & Weirder” Tour
On July 13, musical satirist Weird Al Yankovic brings his “Bigger & Weirder” tour to Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, the site of the original 1969 Woodstock festival. Backed by his long-time band, Yankovic will serve up accordion-fueled parodies, style pastiches, and absurd original songs spanning his four-decade career—from “Eat It” to “Word Crimes.” Special guest Puddles Pity Party, the melancholy clown with a golden voice, opens the show. Expect costume changes, multimedia antics, and plenty of laughs under the stars. It’s high-octane nerdy fun in a legendary venue.
Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival
instrument workshops, a family-friendly kids’ academy, and late-night sets under the stars, Grey Fox is a pilgrimage for bluegrass fans of all ages. Bring your banjo—or just your ears.
Upstate Art Weekend
The Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival returns to Walsh Farm in Oak Hill, July 16–20, 2025, with five days of top-tier picking, jamming, and foot-stomping fun in the Catskills. Now in its 44th year, Grey Fox brings a stacked lineup: Del McCoury Band, Sam Bush Band, the Infamous Stringdusters, Sierra Hull, Molly Tuttle and Golden Highway, the California Honeydrops, Della Mae, and many more. With on-site camping,
Now in its sixth year, Upstate Art Weekend (July 17-21) is a self-directed celebration of contemporary art across the Hudson Valley and Catskills. Over five days, more than 130 participants—including museums, galleries, pop-ups, and artists’ studios—open their doors for special exhibitions, performances, and events. Launched by curator Helen Toomer, the weekend has become a summer highlight for art lovers, drawing visitors from near and far to explore the region’s rich creative landscape. With its mix of pastoral beauty and cutting-edge work, Upstate Art Weekend offers a compelling snapshot of the region’s thriving art scene. Plan your route and wander.
Weird Al Yankovic
Photo by Kyle Cassidy
OUTINGS WITH OFFSPRING
BY LIAM DRAUF
The Hudson Valley is a great place to raise kids—or just bring them for the weekend. From hands-on museums and animal encounters to sculpture parks, farms, and waterparks, the region offers a wide range of low-stress outings for families looking to mix fun with fresh air and learning. For the younger set, there’s the new Peppa Pig Playground at Legoland and the STEM-focused exhibits at the MidHudson Discovery Museum. Adventurous families can cool off at SplashDown Beach or Zoom Flume, hop aboard a vintage train in Kingston, or wander through the fields and giant sculptures of Storm King. Animal lovers will enjoy meeting the residents of Shalimar Alpacas or the endangered species at the Trevor Zoo. And for something different, Kelder’s Farm offers u-pick produce, a mini-golf course, and a giant
gnome. No matter your kids’ ages—or energy levels—you’ll find plenty of ways to keep them engaged (and off their screens).
Peppa Pig Playground at Legoland GOSHEN
Peppa fans, rejoice! Legoland New York’s 2025 season brings the debut of the Peppa Pig Playground—a colorful, 13,000-square-foot wonderland where little ones can explore Peppa’s house, ride in Daddy Pig’s red car, and set sail on Grandpa Pig’s boat. Designed for hands-on play and imagination, it’s a dream come true for preschoolers. Families can make a full day of it with Legoland’s 40-plus rides and shows, including a water playground, the Dragon Coaster, and Miniland. Want to stay overnight? The Legothemed hotel is just steps away, perfect for dance parties, scavenger hunts, and bedtime brick-building.
Catskill Mountain Railroad KINGSTON
Board a vintage train car in Kingston and take a scenic ride through the woods and fields of the Catskills. The Catskill Mountain Railroad operates weekend excursions all spring and summer long, with themed rides that appeal to a range of ages. Young kids love the openair cars and the novelty of riding the rails, while parents can relax and take in views along the historic Ulster & Delaware line. The ride is just the right length for younger attention spans, and trains depart from the conveniently located Westbrook Lane station at Kingston Plaza. Kingston
SplashDownBeach FISHKILL
SplashDown Beach delivers big waterpark fun on a manageable scale. Toddlers can wade and play in the Pirate’s Cove and the Shipwreck Lagoon, while older kids race down high-speed slides like the Arctic Mammoth or brave the giant wave pool. Parents will appreciate the shady cabanas, food options (including pizza and barbecue), and the park’s compact layout, which makes it easier to keep track of the kids. The lazy river is a popular cooldown for all ages. Open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, it’s a reliable summer staple for families looking to beat the heat.
Shalimar Alpacas WARWICK
A visit to Shalimar Alpacas offers a gentle, low-key alternative to the usual family outing.
Peppa Pig Playground at Legoland, Goshen
Nestled in the Warwick countryside, the farm is home to a friendly herd of alpacas that kids can meet up close. Families can stroll the property, learn about these curious, soft-footed animals, and browse the on-site shop stocked with alpaca fiber goods. The pace is slow, the setting pastoral, and the experience memorable—especially for animal-loving kids. Visits are self-guided and by appointment, so it’s best to plan ahead. Perfect for a quiet detour paired with a picnic or a visit to nearby farm stands.
Storm King Art Center NEW WINDSOR
Spanning 500 acres of rolling hills and woodlands, Storm King Art Center offers families an opportunity to experience large-scale sculptures in an open-air setting. Children can explore expansive fields dotted with towering artworks, while parents appreciate the blend of art and nature. The center provides family-friendly programs, including hands-on workshops led by artists and environmental educators, fostering creativity and learning for all ages. Walking paths and tram services make the grounds accessible, and bike rentals are available for a different perspective. Picnic areas invite leisurely breaks, making it a well-rounded day trip for families.
Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum POUGHKEEPSIE
Designed for kids age 12 and under, the Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum offers hands-on exhibits that invite curiosity and experimentation. Children can explore water play tables, construct towers in the building zone, pretend to shop in a kid-sized market, and more. The museum emphasizes STEMbased learning through play, making it both educational and entertaining. For parents, it’s a contained, air-conditioned space where young kids can safely burn off energy. Located right on the Poughkeepsie waterfront, it’s an easy add-on to a walk across the nearby Walkway Over the Hudson or a picnic in Waryas Park.
Kelder’s Farm KERHONKSON
Kelder’s Farm packs a lot into its 100 acres: seasonal u-pick produce, barnyard animals, mini-golf, and a giant jumping pillow that’s a hit with kids. One quirky highlight is Gnome Chomsky, the world’s third-largest garden gnome, who greets visitors near
the entrance—a photo op that’s become something of a rite of passage. Families can spend the afternoon exploring the play areas, riding the tractor-pulled wagon, or just soaking in the Catskills views. With a farm stand stocked with snacks and plenty of room to roam, it’s an easy, engaging outing for kids and a relaxed one for parents.
Zoom Flume Water Park EAST DURHAM
Tucked into the northern Catskills, Zoom Flume is a family-oriented water park with a retro vibe and a wide range of rides. Younger kids can splash safely in the shallow “Spray Ground,” while older ones take on tube slides, a wave pool, and the adrenaline-pumping Typhoon Twister. The park is spread out enough to avoid crowds but compact enough for families to stick together. On-site food stands, shaded picnic areas, and a scenic setting make it easy to spend a full day here. It’s a classic summer destination that combines waterpark fun with a laid-back, upstate feel.
Trevor Zoo at the Millbrook School MILLBROOK
The Trevor Zoo is the only zoo in the US located at a high school—and it’s a hidden gem for families. Home to over 80 animals, including endangered red pandas, lemurs, and bald eagles, the zoo offers a compact, walkable layout that’s ideal for younger kids. Educational signs and peaceful wooded paths add to the experience, and kids can get surprisingly close to many of the animals. Open year-round, the Trevor Zoo is low-key, affordable, and just the right size for a short visit that still feels like an adventure.
Hudson River Maritime Museum KINGSTON
Located on the Rondout Creek, the Hudson River Maritime Museum offers hands-on exhibits that introduce kids to the region’s boating and industrial history—from tugboats and ice harvesting to lighthouse life. Families can climb aboard a wooden rowboat, explore a working model of the Rondout waterfront, and watch boatbuilding in action at the on-site Wooden Boat School. In warmer months, solar-powered boat tours and family programs add to the experience. It’s a manageable, interactive museum with enough variety to hold younger kids’ attention while giving parents a sense of the working Hudson’s past and present.
Verkeerder Kill Falls, Sam’s Point Area, Minnewaska State Park Preserve
WATERFALL HIKES
BY KAREN ANGEL
Few things are more serene than a hike to a rushing cascade where you can tune everything out—or better yet, several waterfall hikes over a long weekend
When it comes to New York waterfalls, the majestic Niagara Falls is top of mind. The 260-foot-tall Kaaterskill Falls in Haines Falls—the tallest waterfall in the state—also draws hordes of visitors every year. But there are plenty of lesser-known falls where you can bask in the mesmerizing flow of nature with little or no company to enjoy the immersive experience that waterfalls provide.
The perfect antidote to the madness of city life, waterfalls force you to be in the moment— and combining a hike with stunning Catskill Mountain or Hudson River views with a visit to a waterfall transports you to a tranquil realm. Some of the more obscure Hudson Valley waterfalls below are such well-kept secrets that they don’t have official names or appear on local maps, so you may have the trail and the waterfall all to yourself. These falls are all roughly within a 40-mile radius, and most are relatively short, so you can fit several into a long weekend getaway, rather than planning a trip that revolves around one huge, iconic waterfall.
Waterfall at John Burroughs Nature Sanctuary/Black Creek State Forest ESOPUS
The naturalist John Burroughs described water as “exhilarating” in his 1908 book Leaf and Tendril . That’s also a fitting adjective for this long cascade reached by hiking roughly four miles round trip through the nature sanctuary that was once Burroughs’s rustic retreat.
The South Pond Trail will transport you to a mystical world of stone steps and small falls
DISCOVER OLANA
trickling through mossy rock faces, forming wetlands below that provide habitat for beavers and skunk cabbage. Along the way, we spotted a big black snake, a northern leopard frog, painted turtles sunning themselves on logs, and delicate lavender, violet, and white hepatica blossoms springing up beneath hemlocks and birches.
As you approach the waterfall, the path opens up to a view of Black Creek with a sea of cattails shimmering in the sun, and a rushing sound announces the presence of the falls. The falls gradually descends about 25 feet over a dramatic stretch of about 350, and there is a flat stone on the bank near the top where you can sit and soak up the sights and sounds. Follow the trail to the bottom of the falls, where the remnants of an antique stone mill stand, and dip your bare feet in the nippy creek before lacing up to head back along the same route.
Awosting Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Stony Kill Falls
MINNEWASKA STATE PARK PRESERVE, KERHONKSON AND WAWARSING
Awosting Falls is the most accessible waterfall at Minnewaska and the park’s second-most popular attraction after Lake Minnewaska.
This stunning 65-foot cascade on the Peter’s Kill is surrounded by the quartz conglomerate bedrock that makes up the Shawangunk Ridge, providing a scenic natural viewing platform from the top of the falls. Grab a seat on a stone by the large pool that forms below to take in the full power and force of the waterfall from another perspective.
While the meticulously groomed Awosting trail could easily accommodate an all-terrain wheelchair, be prepared to navigate a rocky, eroded path to reach the bottom of Rainbow Falls. Though near a well-traveled path, this 70-foot falls feels remote because it’s in the middle of the forest, near a stand of tall hemlocks, where you can savor the sensation of the spray on your skin and listen for songbird calls. The falls is fed by an unnamed tributary of the Peter’s Kill and can dry to a trickle or less if there’s no rain, so it’s best to try to plan your trip there during a wet time.
Stony Kill Falls, about a 15-minute drive from Minnewaska’s main entrance, takes you inside a fairy tale of stone steps, quaint wooden bridges and water cascading over striated sheets of rock. The stone landing midway up the half-mile climb is the perfect place to catch your breath and drink in the sounds of nature as the 87-foot cascade shoots over the cliff in front of you. Just above the big cascade, which is fed by several smaller ones above it, there’s a tranquil pool once used as a nudist swimming hole, and nudists still are occasionally spotted there.
Verkeerder Kill Falls
SAM’S POINT AREA, MINNEWASKA STATE PARK At 187 feet, this waterfall is the largest in the area and arguably the most dramatic. A loud whooshing sound heralds the presence of this mighty falls from around half a mile away. Fed by a creek called the Verkeerder Kill, the water courses over giant slabs of rock before heading over a cliff, where it has carved an enormous ravine below. Two large rocks at the end of the footpath, across the ravine from the falls, make an excellent viewing spot.
This 5.5-mile hike, with four of those miles on a very rugged trail with a robust timber rattlesnake population, makes Verkeerder Kill the least accessible of the waterfalls on this list. The walk feels longer than it is because of the relentlessly rocky footpath, but the mountain views along the way and the view of the falls are stunning.
Stony Kill Falls, Minnewaska State Park Preserve, Wawarsing
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Shaupeneak Ridge Waterfall and Middle Falls ESOPUS
A third-of-a-mile stroll through tall sundappled hemlocks alongside Black Creek will take you to the series of cascades known as Middle Falls. Each is relatively small, but the series continues for roughly 600 feet. Although not far from the road, you will feel a million miles from civilization sitting on a tree stump by the bank amid bright yellow trout lilies listening to the hypnotic whoosh of the frothy water.
At Shaupeneak Ridge, flat stones lead downward to a large rock landing at the base of an unnamed 20-foot falls across the Swartekill, which pours off a mossy cliff with several rivulets surrounding the main chute. The hike there is a steep and hilly 0.75 miles through deep forest graced with an old stone fence.
Falling Waters Preserve GLASCO
This preserve combines accessible trails, striking Hudson River views and two relatively small, sweet falls within a mile of
each other, both across unnamed tributaries of the Hudson River.
The first falls is a short stroll from the parking area on the blue trail, which continues to the riverfront. The walk to the second falls of less than a mile offers stunning shoreline overlooks, and when you arrive, there’s a rustic gazebo with several benches where you can watch the water zigzag over a series of rock shelves.
Vernooy Kill Falls in the Sundown Wild Forest ACCORD
A wooden bridge spanning the Vernooy Kill affords upstream and downstream views of this seemingly endless series of cascades that gradually drop about 35 feet over rock slabs and form two large pools surrounded by big rocks. The rocky 1.7-mile trail doesn’t offer much in the way of views, but there are thick pockets of pink and white mountain laurel in the late spring and early summer. Sections of the trail often are flooded and slippery, and there’s a healthy timber rattlesnake population here.
Vernooy Kill Falls, Sundown Wild Forest, Accord
breathe. cast. repeat.
GREATWESTERNCATSKILLS COM
