Dip your paddle into the calm waters of New York’s Great Northern Catskills of Greene County during the fall season. With spectacular fall views filled with vibrant foliage, and cooler temperatures—ideal for a day on the water—the region is home to a wide variety of paddling opportunities for all levels of paddlers.
Start the day watching the fog lift off the water at one of the region’s lakes. North-South Lake, located at North-South Lake Campground in Haines Falls, is the largest state campground in the Catskill Forest Preserve, and offers views of the surrounding mountains. Greens Lake in Athens features a tree-lined landscape with calm water.
For a Hudson River adventure, paddle along the shores of Four Mile Point Preserve, a nature trail in Coxsackie, or explore along the water near Dutchman’s Landing Park in Catskill. Both routes offer shoreline views from New York’s most well-known river. Paddle north along the Hudson River shoreline to make your way to the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse—you’ll see the Rip Van Winkle Bridge along the way.
Don’t have paddling equipment? No problem! Screaming Eagle Outdoor Adventures in Athens has single and tandem kayak rentals through Columbus Day weekend each year, depending on the weather. The price varies based on the size of the kayak and the amount of time the equipment is rented. Riverview Marine Services in Catskill also offers single and double kayak and canoe rentals until early to mid-October each year, depending on the weather and the temperature of the water.
No matter where you choose to paddle, the Great Northern Catskills of Greene County provides a sense of serenity. For additional information about paddling or boating in the region, visit GreatNorthernCatskills.com.
