During our trip to North/South Lake Campground, we made it a point to visit the Catskill Mountain House Historic Site. We were amazed by this incredible destination, which holds great historical significance in the Catskills. However, it’s the breathtaking view that truly knocked our socks off! On a clear day, it’s possible to see three states.
A View That Makes You Say “WOW!”
When we start out on the trail to the Catskill Mountain House, nothing about this wide, flat, grassy trail would make us think that we were, in fact, heading to someplace truly special.
The trail, just 0.2 miles from the parking area (we parked at the South Lake parking lot), opens up to a bare field, once the site of the historic hotel. As you approach, you realize that the land ends, and you are actually standing on a giant cliff, overlooking the majestic Hudson Valley.
This is one of the best views in the Catskills and the easiest to get too. You don’t even have to break a sweat to see it. On a clear day, you can see Connecticut, Vermont, and Massachusetts. Surprisingly, we had the place all to ourselves, even on a busy Sunday. I suspect the label “historic site” might deter some visitors, but they’re certainly missing out.
History of the Catskill Mountain House
The Catskill Mountain House was built in 1823 and opened in 1824. In 1839, Charles L. Beach, whose family already operated a stagecoach line from Catskill to the Mountain House, leased the hotel from the owners and eventually purchased it.
In the late 1800s, the hotel was at the height of its glory and entertained influential and renowned visitors, such as three presidents: Ulysses S. Grant, Grover Cleveland, Theodore Roosevelt, and General Sherman. The Catskill Mountain House became one of the most popular destinations.
As more luxurious and easily accessible hotels and vacation destinations began appearing in the area, and the Adirondacks surpassed the Catskills as a favored vacation spot for the wealthy, causing the Catskill Mountain House to fall into disrepair. The state eventually purchased the property, made several attempts to restore the building, and eventually burned it down. The only remaining remnants are the stone pillars that were once part of the grand entrance to the Catskill Mountain House.
Hudson River School Art Trail Stop
The Catskill Mountian House is one of the eight stops on the Hudson River School Art Trail. Hudson River School artists, including Frederic Church and Thomas Cole, stayed at the hotel and occasionally sold their paintings to other guests. The spectacular view inspired the artist to create masterpieces such as Frederick Church’s Above the Clouds at Sunrise (1849) and Thomas Cole’s The Catskill Mountain House (1845)
There is a rubbing medallion on the sign where people participating in the Art Trail can get a stamp for this stop.
Getting to the Catskill Mountain House
Catskill Mountain House is located in North/South Lake Campground. The trail can be accessed from both sections of the park.
From North Lake – Park in the further public parking lot and follow the signs to the trail.
From South Lake – Park in the furthest public parking area, the trailhead is at the top of the parking lot. (the trail to the Catskill Mountain House Site is slightly longer from this parking lot.)