South of the Adirondaks and also in the state of New York is the Catskill Mountains region. With it's close proximatey to larger population centers including just over a 2 hour drive from New York City, the Catskills Park receives millions of visitors annually not only from New York City but also from around the country and to a lesser extent internationally. Such a rugged and remote wilderness in close proximity to the largest metro area of the United States should not be taken for granted, as there is world class fishing, backpacking, and culture completely removed from the nearby urban centers.
Some Facts About The Catskill Mountains
- Slide Mountain, tallest in Catskills at 4,180ft
- Numerous historical locations of artists, authors, musicians, and American settlers
- Well maintained trail and camping network
- Multiple Ski Resorts
- Numerous wilderness areas
- Well over 1,000sq mi
- 35 peaks over 3,500ft
- Many quaint small mountain towns
- Countless lakes, ponds, rivers, and waterfalls
The Catskill Mountains have long been a place where artists, authors, musicians, and naturalists have frequented and called home. Many books have been authored here, paintings been brushed, and songs been written while the tranquil surroundings provides the mind the opportunity to remain focused. The Catskills have been the setting for movies and music, novels, and the Woodstock music festival in 1969.
Thomas Cole's Painting of North South Lake, c. 1844
Currently located at the Brooklyn Museum in Brooklyn, New York, Thomas Cole's painting of North South Lake titled "A View of the Two Lakes and a Mountain House" brushed circa 1844 shows how long the Catskills have been a special place of nature and beauty.
https://www.brooklynmuseum.org/opencollection/objects/1069