The Catskills

The Catskills, located in south-eastern New York State, is a renowned mountainous region known for its stunning natural landscapes. Part of the Appalachian Mountain range, the Catskills cover approximately 6,000 square miles and are home to Catskill Park, a vast, protected area with over 700,000 acres of forests, rivers, and peaks.

The region has long been a favoured retreat for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking and skiing. The Catskill Mountains are particularly popular among hikers due to their diverse trails, including those leading to scenic viewpoints such as Kaaterskill Falls and Slide Mountain, the highest peak in the range. During the winter months, the Catskills attract skiers and snowboarders to resorts like Hunter Mountain and Belleayre Mountain.

Historically, the Catskills played a vital role in American arts and culture, serving as the inspiration for the Hudson River School of painting in the 19th century and later becoming a hub for music, literature, and performing arts. In the mid-20th century, the region gained fame as a resort destination, particularly with the rise of the Borscht Belt, a collection of iconic hotels and entertainment venues that hosted legendary performers such as Jerry Lewis and Joan Rivers.