Off The Trails: A Hiker's Guide to the Outdoors

Kaaterskill Falls is one of the most popular hiking locations all year round. However, the hiking in the summer is very different than the hiking in the winter. In the winter months, this waterfall turns into a magnificent winter wonderland. Traversing any section of this park (or Catskill region) in the winter requires skill and proper equipment. At a minimum spikes are required. Most hikers will carry additional ice cleats, hiking poles and other winter gear. Winter hiking experience is recommended and encouraged. The hike is full of signs stating the danger if not properly prepared and to proceed at your own risk. One sign states rescuers will not respond if you are injured because of the danger.

The viewing platform (~.5 miles from Laurel House Road), offers a frozen view of the falls and surrounding mountains. Hikers can travel along the Escarpment Trail before turning onto the Kaaterskill Falls Trail. Officially there is no trail to the base of the falls, but the Kaaterskill Falls Trail will take you to Spruce Creek and the base of the 260ft tall waterfall. As you get closer to the bottom, the trail will be come more icy. At first glance, it is rather intimidating to see an icicle 7 or 8 feet in size, but the site is truly awe-inspiring. Kaaterskill Falls is a two-stage waterfall, meaning there are two drops before reaching the creek. Hikers can traverse both platforms and those feeling bold can go behind the frozen waterfall for a once in a lifetime view. It’s not every day you can say you stood on a sheet of ice on the edge of a waterfall. In case it wasn’t obvious, this area is extremely icy and there are plenty of drop offs without any railings or safety nets.

Kaaterskill Falls isn’t the only attraction that is close by. Most trails found online will include Inspiration Point and Layman’s Monument. Traveling along the Escarpment Trail will take you to both of these landmarks. Layman’s Monument was erected in 1901 to commemorate Frank D. Layman. Layman died onsite on August 10th, 1900 fighting a forest fire in the area. In 2003, the monument was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Inspiration Point is an overlook along the valley milled out by Kaaterskill Creek and route 23A. Inspiration point is just one of many viewing locations along the route.

Overall this location is used by ice climbers, winter hikers and adventure seekers alike. The falls are stunning, but the danger is apparent. Do not attempt unless you are prepared and confident. If you are, you will not be disappointed. The hiking distance and time will depend on the parking location and addition of any other landmarks. The trails are well marked and very clear.

Parking: The closest parking lot to the falls is off of Laurel House Road. Be warned, this lot fills up quickly, in which hikers will need to find additional parking elsewhere in the surrounding areas. Other areas include Scutt Road, S Lake Road and Thorpe Road.

Alltrails: There are many Alltrails locations depending on what points you are planning to include in your visit. Searching Kaaterskill Falls or Inspiration Point will provide you with some options.