While there are several things to consider before planning a day or overnight trip anywhere right now, you can still experience the Catskill Region safely. Whether you’re planning on visiting an outdoor attraction, going for a hike, or looking to grab some takeout from a local restaurant, you should always call ahead or check the relevant website. Additionally, many attractions are requiring visitors to purchase tickets in advance or are offering limited ticket sales to ensure that social distancing and cleanliness protocols can be followed.
With these travel and safety measures in mind, here are a few of the best things to do in the Catskill Region during COVID-19:
Ulster County
Do: Go for a winter’s ramble in Black Creek Preserve. This year-round nature walking destination in Esopus offers two miles of trails starting at a suspension bridge spanning Black Creek. Expect great views of the Hudson River shoreline. Wear seasonally appropriate clothing and consider wearing micro spikes.
Dine: From pizza to pubs, locally sourced to internationally inspired, find out which restaurants and cafés in Ulster County are offering takeout, delivery, or curbside pickup options due to COVID-19 with their interactive map and full list of participating locations.
Stay: The Church des Artistes Guest House in Kingston is a B&B that is only offering a full property buyout during COVID. Grab those in your bubble and enjoy up to four rooms in this 1800s renovated church and artist studio. Two en suite baths and two private baths lend an extra element of space. Opt for the locally sourced, home cooked breakfast, bring provisions, and order takeout from Kingston’s buzz-worthy restaurants.
Greene County
Do: Rather than hit the slopes this winter, why not hit the trails? Greene County, known as the Great Northern Catskills, is home to miles of cross-country ski and snowshoe trails. If you’re a beginner, head to Bearpen Mountain Sports in Prattsville. Rental equipment for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, as well as winter biking, is available. Snow tubing is also available on a limited, reservation-only basis.
Dine: Restaurants throughout Greene County offer curbside pick-up, delivery, and takeout options. Dining in is available at select restaurants and calling ahead for a reservation is recommended. Find a complete list of all participating restaurants on the region’s website. For a unique experience, check out the Igloo dining at Jessie’s Harvest House in Tannersville.
Stay: The Winwood Inn & Condominiums in Windham offers multiple room options to suit your needs. Book a condo if you need ample space to spread out and have access to a kitchen or settle in with a double queen suite and order from any one of the restaurants in Greene County offering delivery! Located near Windham Mountain, Winwood is a great option for skiers and non-skiers alike.
Sullivan County
Do: Head to the Liberty Rail Trail for a winter walk in the woods! Enjoy five miles of out-and-back trails that wind through woodlands and the village center of Liberty following a section of the old O&W Rail Line. Check ahead for conditions and consider wearing micro spikes or snowshoes.
Dine: Many of the Sullivan Catskills’ restaurants are offering takeout, dine-in, and delivery due to the pandemic. Find a list on their website and call ahead to any of your favorite places to grab a bite before planning your visit to ensure that they are open.
Stay: If you’re in need of a luxurious getaway offering sweeping views of a snow-covered landscape, rooms with a soaking tub, and an on-site spa and restaurant, head to Kenoza Hall in Kenoza Lake. This 55-acre retreat offers private access to Kenoza Lake and on-site hiking trails, indulgent treatments at Hemlock Spa, and upscale dining inspired by old-world recipes at The Restaurant. Kenoza Hall is all about creature comforts.
Delaware County
Do: Hit the slopes at Belleayre Mountain in Highmount and carve some turns. Due to the pandemic, guests at Belleayre must purchase their lift tickets online in advance of their visit. Guests can only ride the lifts with members of their own party, otherwise two singles will be loaded on opposite ends of the lift to ensure proper distancing. Dining options are available in the lodge, but a 50% reduction in capacity means that your après ski happy hour isn’t guaranteed.
Dine: From pizza and wings to comfort cuisine, you’ll find something for everyone to enjoy. Many restaurants are offering limited service or takeout only. Call ahead to order or make a reservation at any Great Western Catskills restaurant.
Stay: The Roxbury Motel in Roxbury is the ideal getaway for anyone looking to escape reality for a while and live inside a story. Each guest room at their two locations offers a new experience. The Stratton Falls location offers whimsical cottages, tower rooms, and mansion rooms. The Roxbury offers sleep in rooms inspired by Dracula, King Arthur, the Wizard of Oz, and a faerie forest. Stringent cleaning and safety protocols ensure a peaceful night’s rest.
Safety Recommendations
We recommend for everyone's safety and health that you carry hand sanitizer and wear a facemask or face covering when you leave your home. Additionally, follow all CDC and local public health guidelines, including:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 to 95 percent alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid contact with sick people.
Stay up to date on CDC recommendations by checking their website. For updates on what is happening across New York State, visit the NYS Department of Health website.
