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Umi Haft-Funke

10 Things To Do In The Catskills In The Winter- Plan A Winter Cabin Getaway in the Great Northern Catskills of Upstate NY

If you are looking for things to do in the Catskills during the winter, you’ve come to the right place! The Catskills is a popular destination all year round and there’s just so much to do especially in the winter. From winter sports like skiing and snowboarding to cozy cabin stays there’s something for everyone and we’re here to make your winter getaway to the Catskills one you won’t forget! We’ve put together our top 10 things to do in the Catskills this winter.


Winter scene in the Catskills
Winter Getaway at The Catskills Mountain House

1. Book a Cozy Cabin Getaway

The Catskills offers an array of places to stay and if you’re looking for a secluded cabin during your winter visit, The Catskills Mountain House is the perfect place to enjoy after a packed day of winter fun! The Catskills Mountain House offers modern amenities while being the perfect place to get cozy and take in all the snow covered mountain views. Picture snuggling up with a blanket in front of a roaring wood burning stove, making s’mores by the fire pit, sipping hot cocoa on the deck and after a long day of skiing, relax in the hot tub with the most magical winter views. Plan your winter cabin stay here.

2. Hit The Slopes For Skiing and Snowboarding

Hit the slopes for some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Upstate NY. The Catskills are a winter wonderland for skiers and snowboarders! Hunter Mountain, Windham Mountain, and Belleayre Mountain are where the action's at. Whether you're a pro or still learning, they've got trails for everyone. And let's talk about the views – ABSOLUTELY breathtaking! Picture yourself gliding down the powdery runs with those towering peaks in the background.

Man skiing in the Catskills

3. Go Sledding, Snowshoeing and Ice Skating

Looking for some more winter fun…Bearpen Mountain (right up the road from The Catskills Mountain House) is a locally run business featuring outdoor adventure and fun for all ages! There’s so much to do from cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking through scenic Catskill Mountain trails, to zooming down the longest snow tubing run in New York and gliding along ice skating paths! 

And if you are staying at The Catskills Mountain House, we’ve got the most fun sledding hills right in our own backyard. We’ve got sleds to use for some good old fashioned sledding fun!


4. Winter Hiking and Frozen Waterfall Climbing

Ever imagine scaling frozen waterfalls and cliffs? In the Catskills, winter brings an adrenaline-packed playground for ice climbers. Picture strapping on crampons, gripping ice axes, and tackling challenging vertical ice formations against a backdrop of snow-covered landscapes. Spots like Kaaterskill Falls offer an icy canvas for both beginners and seasoned climbers to test their skills. If you're up for a winter hike and breathtaking views, gear up for an unforgettable ice-climbing escapade and check out Mountain Skills Climbing Guides or HighXposure Adventure for a guided experience.


5. Relax at One of the Top Spas in the Catskills

Looking for a more relaxing way to spend your winter getaway? There's no better time to escape the chill and indulge in the warmth of a spa retreat. Whether you want to experience a custom massage right in the comfort of your own cabin or relax at a full day spa at Emerson Resort + Spa, this region offers a range of spa retreats that promises to pamper your senses and leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. For other great relaxing spa options check out The Windham Spa, Skin Concept Esthetics or Facials By Gabrielle.


A winter massage in the Catskills
Personalized massage at The Catskills Mountain House

6. Scenic Drives with Breathtaking Views

There are so many ways to enjoy winter’s beauty in the Catskills! Take a scenic drive through winding roads that offer stunning vistas of snow-covered mountains and valleys. Drive along highway 23A to see some of the most beautiful icicles and frozen waterfalls of Kaaterskills Falls.


7. Take a Stroll Down Charming Catskill Towns

The Catskills are filled with the quaintest of towns. Woodstock, Phoenicia, Windham, Roxbury and Tannersville are accentuated during winter, inviting visitors to experience a perfect blend of small-town hospitality and the magical ambiance of the winter season. Take a stroll down these charming towns and enjoy historic architecture, friendly locals, or the cozy shops, these Catskills towns transform into winter wonderlands, creating a storybook setting that lingers in the hearts of all who visit.


8. Immerse Yourself in Festive Events

Explore local winter festivals and events happening in the Catskills. From holiday markets to winter celebrations, these events provide a chance to immerse yourself in the region's culture and festive atmosphere. You can check out some of the local events going on in the area here.


9. Indulge In Local Cuisine

Indulge in the rich and comforting local cuisine of the Catskills. Visit quaint restaurants and eateries to savor hearty dishes, warm beverages, and delicious treats that reflect the region's winter charm. Check out all of our personal favorite local restaurants in the Catskills here!


10. Winter Stargazing

Far from the city lights, The Catskills boast some of the most mesmerizing night skies! Step outside the cabin with a cozy blanket and gaze at the celestial wonders above. On a clear night sky spot constellations, make wishes upon shooting stars, and marvel at the vastness of the universe. It’s truly a magical experience! The Catskills in winter is a place everyone should experience, offering a delightful array of activities for every winter enthusiast. Whether you're seeking adventure on the slopes, tranquil moments in nature, or simply a cozy retreat by the fire, the Catskills have it all. Just a quick 2.5 hour drive from NYC, The Catskills Mountain House is the perfect place to escape city life and enjoy a winter escape. So, bundle up, grab your winter gear, and create memories that will last a lifetime this winter!


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