Planning a family adventure in the Catskills? The surrounding Hunter, NY area offers some of the most accessible and rewarding hiking trails, perfect for families with kids. From stunning waterfalls to scenic overlooks, these carefully selected trails provide a great introduction to hiking in upstate New York.

Why Hunter, NY is Perfect for Family Hiking

Located just 2.5 hours from Manhattan, Hunter offers families the perfect escape to the great outdoors. The area's diverse trail system provides options for every skill level, from easy nature walks to moderate climbs with incredible payoffs. Summer hiking in Hunter means lush green forests, cool mountain air, and plenty of opportunities for kids to explore nature safely.

View from North Point overlooking North-South Lake.

Our Favorite Family Hikes

1. Kaaterskill Falls Trail - The Crown Jewel for Families

Distance: 1.4 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best For: Ages 6 and up

The hike to Kaaterskill Falls is short at 1.4 miles roundtrip, making it perfect for families. New York's tallest waterfall at 260 feet provides a spectacular destination that will keep kids motivated throughout the hike.

Two Access Options:

Laurel House Road Parking: The trail to the Kaaterskill Falls viewing platform is a gently sloping 0.3 miles, easy enough for small children to navigate.
Route 23A Access: A slightly longer approach that follows Spruce Creek uphill

Family Tips:

Start early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends
Bring plenty of water and snacks
Stay on marked trails - the rocks near the falls can be extremely slippery
Consider the viewing platform for younger children rather than the full descent

2. Kaaterskill Rail Trail - Perfect for Strollers and Beginners

Distance: Various options up to 3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Best For: All ages, stroller-friendly

This converted railroad bed offers the easiest hiking experience in the Hunter area. The flat, wide path makes it perfect for families with young children, strollers, or anyone looking for a gentle introduction to Catskills hiking.

Highlights:

Historic railroad bridges and tunnels
Stream crossings and woodland views
Multiple access points for shorter walks
Connects to other trail systems for longer adventures

View of the lake as part of the Artist’s Rock, Sunset Rock, Newman’s Ledge Trail in the North-South Lake area.

3. North-South Lake Area Trails - Multiple Family Options

Distance: 1-3 miles depending on route
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best For: Ages 5 and up

The North-South Lake area offers several interconnected trails perfect for families:

Ashley Falls Loop: A gentle 1.5-mile walk around the lake with swimming opportunities Catskill Mountain House Site: Easy walk to historic ruins with Hudson Valley views Mary's Glen Trail: Short hike to a beautiful cascading waterfall

Family Benefits:

Picnic areas and restrooms available
Swimming opportunities in designated areas
Multiple trail options to customize your adventure
Rich history to engage older kids

4. Dibbles Quarry Trail - Hidden Gem for Families

Distance: 2 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best For: Ages 7 and up

This lesser-known trail leads to a beautiful quarry pond surrounded by dramatic cliffs. The relatively easy hike offers kids the excitement of discovering a "secret" swimming hole.

What Makes It Special:

Crystal-clear quarry pond for swimming
Dramatic rock formations
Less crowded than major attractions
Great for older kids who want a bit more adventure

5. Hunter Mountain Scenic Skyride to Nature Trails

Distance: Various options
Difficulty: Easy (with skyride assist)
Best For: All ages

For families who want mountain views without the climb, Hunter Mountain's scenic skyride provides access to summit trails and spectacular Catskills vistas.

Summer Features:

Easy access to mountaintop trails
Breathtaking 360-degree views
Shorter hiking distances at elevation
Perfect for hot summer days (cooler at elevation)

6. Mount Tremper Fire Tower Trail - Manageable Mountain Challenge

Distance: 2.5 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Moderate
Best For: Ages 8 and up, experienced young hikers

For families ready for a bit more challenge, the Mount Tremper Fire Tower offers a rewarding climb with panoramic views from the restored fire tower.

Why Kids Love It:

Climbing the fire tower feels like an adventure
360-degree views from the top
Clear trail markers and steady but manageable incline
Sense of accomplishment reaching the summit

7. Colgate Lake Loop - Peaceful Family Walk

Distance: 1.8 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Best For: Ages 4 and up

This gentle loop around Colgate Lake offers families a peaceful hiking experience with opportunities for wildlife viewing and nature photography.

Perfect For:

Very young hikers
Bird watching and nature observation
Quiet family time in nature
Building confidence for longer hikes

Extend the Adventure Post Hike

Family Friendly Eats

Refuel after all that activity with a casual bite at one of the area’s many family friendly establishments:

Pick up a sandwich or local groceries from Circle W Market in Palenville
Grab a burger and a shake at Mama’s Boy Burgers in Tannersville
There’s something for everyone at The Pantry on Main in Tannersville: pancakes for the kids, omelets and avocado toast for the adults
It’s hard to resist classic ice cream at the Twilight General Store in Haines Falls

Complementary Activities

Keep the family out and about, by tacking on another activity before heading home to wash up for the night:

Hunter Mountain offers scenic skyrides: Hunter offers a scenic skyride in warmer months along with fun for the whole family. If the skies are clear, you can see all the way to the Green Mountains of Vermont.
Take a dip in the North-South Lake: After your hike, change into your bathing suits and go for a swim! You can also rent paddle boats here.
Fun for all at Rip Van Winkle Lake Park: Rip Van Winkle Lake has a variety of activities to satisfy all, including a pickleball court, basketball court, beach volleyball, playground, and paddle boats. You can also grab a drink or a snack at Boathouse BBQ.

Hiking Logistics

What to Pack

Safety: First aid kit, whistle, headlamp/flashlight
Comfort: Extra clothes, rain gear, comfortable hiking shoes
Fun: Camera, nature identification guides, small backpacks for kids
Fuel: Trail mix, fruit, sandwiches, electrolyte drinks

Summer-Specific Considerations

Summer is a great time to be in the Catskills: wildflowers are blooming, waterfalls are at peak flow, and temperatures are comfortable. That said, here are a few tips to make your trek a little more enjoyable:

Start early to avoid afternoon heat and thunderstorms
Pack extra sun protection (hat, sunscreen, long sleeves)
Check for tick activity and dress appropriately
Bring insect repellent for buggy areas
Plan for stream crossings that may be higher in summer

Getting to the Area from NYC

Hunter is easily accessible from New York City:

By Car: 2.5 hours via I-87 North and Route 23A West
By Bus: Trailways bus service to Hunter with seasonal schedules
Train + Bus: Metro-North to Albany, then bus connections available

7 Family Friendly Summer Hikes Near Hunter, NY