Travel Diary :: Summer Nostalgia in Greene County, NY

Hi friends,

Can you believe today is last day of Autumn?! Although technically we still have a few weeks left, the start of September feels like the true shift in seasons. It’s definitely bittersweet to leave behind those carefree Summer days, when nostalgia runs deep. This past week, I was given the opportunity to embrace my favorite parts of Summer in Greene County, NY. Home to the Great Northern Catskills, the area boasts some of the best hiking and camping in the state! Not to mention the abundance of country charm throughout, from the old-school resorts (many of which have been remodeled and modernized, while keeping their original character) to farm stands and markets.  

Scenic sunsets

Our celebration of the season started in Haines Falls, at the North-South Lake campground. Not only is it the largest campground in the region, it’s also the starting point to the iconic Escarpment Trail. Spanning and crossing some of the visually striking landscapes in the Catskills, it’s easy to see why it draws so many! We opted for one of the many side trails that run off Escarpment, to Sunset Rock. This overlook has its own significance in art history, as being a point of inspiration to painters from the Hudson River School. It’s amazing to see that the natural beauty of this place still inspires hikers on a daily basis.

Stay in a classic Catskill’s resort

After our (first) hike, it was time to check in to our lodgings. Nestled in the small community of Round Top, NY, Glen Falls House provided a tranquil setting to rest our heads and r e l a x. Following CDC protocols, masks are required in common areas. There were multiple hand sanitizer stations throughout, and at no time did we feel unsafe. In fact, given the sprawling grounds of the resort, the only moment we crossed paths with others was in the morning while grabbing our coffee! With a provisions store on premises, we were never left wanting of extra snacks or drinks. Plus, all the fresh produce is locally grown on property! With Henning’s Local Test Kitchen providing dinner delivery options (that came complete with plates and silverware, making for the perfect impromptu picnic setup!), it’s very easy to imagine spending a full week just unwinding, without ever leaving the grounds. 

For those looking to stay closer to nature (without sacrificing comfort), one of the three Tentrr sites on property may be more your speed. Glen Falls House also has a pool and multiple campfire rings on site, and my favorite feature : secret waterfalls! A network of hiking and biking trails lies directly behind the property, and while they’re open to the public, it was an added bonus to be able to stretch our legs on them after breakfast.

Take on a sunrise hike

As summer is the official no-sleep season, no trip to the mountains would be complete without a sunrise hike! If you really want to get your blood pumping, the steep trail up to the Hunter Mountain fire tower will be right up your alley. As we were hiking up for first light, we didn’t run into any other hikers on the trail or summit. If you do take this one on, keep in mind that masks are required, and only one group is allowed on the tower at a time. Also, be prepared!! Bring plenty of water and layers (it was freezing up there, even in August). Be sure to follow LNT rules while hiking, be respectful and pack out whatever you bring in. Aside from the frigid temps, the conditions were INSANE. The cloud inversion mixed with the rising sun made for the most spectacular light. Once again, proving that sunrise hikes are always worth it. Plus, post-hike breakfast and naps are the best, ha!

Spend an afternoon at the Farm

One of my favorite parts about summer is being able to cook easy meals with fresh, locally-grown produce. Luckily, Greene County is teeming with farms, farm stands, and farmers markets! From exploring apple orchards, picking up fresh peaches and yummy vegetables, or even visiting putting together your own floral bouquet, visiting a farm makes for a perfect lazy, afternoon activity.

Farmers markets always feel a bit like diving into a treasure hunt, you never know what you’ll come away with! One local brand I had discovered through IG beforehand, Kaaterskill Market, ended up being a personal favorite. Their online shop offers a small glimpse of what they bring in person, from sustainable home goods to coveted straw baskets (I HAD to take home one of the French Market Totes!! The perfect sized bag for beach outings and grocery hauls, or even just looking lovely hanging on the wall, you’ll spot it in a few of my photos from this trip. Two local farmer’s markets to hit : Windham New York Farmer’s Market and Coxsackie Farmer’s Market.

Enjoy a Scenic Stroll

Sometimes I find myself leaning into the slow pace of summer, opting for easy walking trails and fields where I can sprawl out in and get lost in a good paperback. One of my go-to spots to do all of the above is the Windham Path, located just minutes from the town center. I love how accessible this trail system is, from families with small kiddos, to bikers, and those just looking to enjoy a scenic view without the incline. Definitely a “choose your own adventure” destination!

As with all things, Summer must come to an end. Fortunately, every year brings a fresh wave of memories, ready to be called on once the days get a little shorter (and much colder). The Great Northern Catskills in Greene County truly embody the spirit of the season - where adventures in the mountains, around the campfire, and at the farm abound. For more info on creating your own Catskills getaway, start here ! Hope you all have enjoyed these months of sunshine, next up : Autumnal gold.

xo

J.