Layman's Monument Loop Trail

Have you ever wanted to feel as if you were hiking two different locations at once? If so, then North Mountain is definitely somewhere to check out. Take the birch tree forests around Aspen, CO and pair it with the spruces/pines of the Adirondacks and you'll have this route in the Catskills.Parking can be found on Scutt Road but get there early if you want a spot, otherwise park at the Visitors...

Layman's Monument and Kaaterskill Falls is an out-and-back trail that takes you to one of New York's tallest waterfalls at 231 feet and to the historical monument for Frank D. Layman, who passed away in 1990 while fighting a forest fire. This trail is located near Haines Falls, New York.

Although this is a super short hike, it is definitely a tough one! The quick, steep climb is totally worth it once you reach the 260 foot cascade and pool at the end. Hike along the trail, hugging Spruce Creek all the way to the falls. If you hike in the spring, the creek and the falls will be raging but you can't go wrong all year. There's great ice climbing in the winter and the fall leaves a...

Located in the beautiful Catskill Mountains, this is an outdoors-mans(and woman's) dream spot! Although this hike is accessible year round, if you decide to go during the summer you should expect crowds. Luckily, there are so many different trails and activities that it won't even matter. North-South Lake offers a campground right by the lake that makes this place very family friendly. It is al...

Please be respectful if visiting this local swimming hole. Pack out what you pack in, carry out others' trash, and familiarize yourself with Leave No Trace principles.  Hidden in the Catskill Mountains is one of the coolest cliff jumping locations I have ever been to. The first time I went was a failed attempt on finding the legendary cliff called Fawns Leap. On my second trip, I didn't want i...

Once upon a time, this very spot was home to one of the most glamorous hotel for travelers in the United States. Now it's a historical site with one hell of a view of the Hudson River, the far away hills of Vermont, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and of course the beautiful Catskills valleys. If you're in the Catskills of New York and happen to be camping at North Lake Campgrounds (and South Lake)...