Beyond Kaaterskill Falls: A Less-Traveled Waterfall Hike for Kids
Catskill hikes are better with waterfalls. We have experienced the majesty of Kaaterskill Falls, but when we want a less touristy nature walk with awe-inspiring waterfalls, Mine Kill Falls in North Blenheim in Schoharie County is our go-to. (And if Kaaterskill Falls gives you vertigo, Mine Kill is friendlier to those who are afraid of heights.)
BONUS: Its proximity to diner food and soft serve ice cream makes it one of our favorite family destinations in the Catskill Mountains.
A scenic overlook in Mine Kill Falls State Park.
We have yet to check out the Olympic-sized swimming pool, wading pool, and diving pool for which Mine Kill State Park is loved. Instead, we made our way to the parking area located south of the main entrance to the park, marked with a sign that reads “Minekill Falls Overlook.” If everyone in your crew is good at climbing stairs, it’s a 5-minute walk to the overlook and about 10 or 15 minutes down a wide (and potentially muddy) trail to the lower falls. Swimming isn’t allowed in the pool beneath the falls, but the views are majestic, with white water cutting through tall and mossy cliff walls.
After our little hike, we took a quick 10-minute drive to Sundaes Restaurant and Tasty Freeze (36422 NY-23, Grand Gorge, NY). They’ve got lots of covered outdoor seating and diner-style food—burgers, wraps, salads, fries, and a whole section of mashed potato-based dishes—plus 24 flavors of soft-serve, with every topping you can imagine. Jackpot!
