New Yorkers Swear by These 8 Amazing Catskills Swimming Holes

Summer in New York means escaping the city heat by heading to the Catskills for a refreshing dip in one of the many swimming holes tucked away in the mountains and forests. Here are eight amazing spots New Yorkers recommend for taking a cool plunge.

Keep an Eye Out for Catskills Wildlife

As you explore the swimming holes, be on the lookout for some of the diverse wildlife that calls the Catskills home. Deer, black bears, bobcats, and foxes all inhabit the forests. You might spot river otters playing in the water at Otter Falls or catch a glimpse of a bald eagle soaring above. The Catskills are also home to thousands of species of birds, insects, fish and other animals. Observe wildlife from a distance and be aware of your surroundings to make sure both you and the animals stay safe.

Peekamoose Blue Hole, Town of Denning

The small, scenic town of Denning is nestled in the mountains along the Rondout Creek. The Peekamoose Blue Hole is a pristine 15-foot deep pool fed by a cascading waterfall, surrounded by steep cliffs in the Sundown Wild Forest. Swimming beneath the falls and jumping from the cliffs around the Blue Hole is exhilarating. Bring hiking shoes to walk the half-mile trail from the parking area. Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds.

Kaaterskill Falls, Haines Falls

Haines Falls sits in the northern Catskills within easy driving distance of many hiking trails, swimming holes, and waterfalls. Kaaterskill Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in New York, with cascading upper and lower tiers totaling 260 feet. The pool at the base is perfect for swimming, surrounded by nature. Hike to the base from the parking area or view the falls from above at the overlook. Be extremely cautious swimming near the powerful falling water.

Fawn’s Leap, Hunter

The town of Hunter is in the heart of the Catskills, surrounded by ski slopes and art galleries. Fawn’s Leap gets its name from the legend of a doe leaping to her death over the falls to escape hunters. Today it’s a hidden gem with a gorgeous pool and a small waterfall flowing into a creek. It’s accessible by a relatively easy 10-minute hike in a shady hemlock forest.

Split Rock, Town of Woodstock

The iconic town of Woodstock attracts visitors with its art, music and spirit of the 1969 festival. Nearby Split Rock swimming hole is in a steep, dramatic gorge with crystal clear water flowing over bedrock and cascading waterfalls on either side. Climbing the rock walls and jumping into the deep swimming holes below is popular. Be aware this area can get crowded on summer weekends.

Diamond Notch Falls, West Kill

The tiny hamlet of West Kill lies in a valley surrounded by Catskill peaks and forests. A scenic 1.5-mile hike through maple and birch forests leads to the secluded Diamond Notch Falls. Enjoy views of the falls from below or carefully scramble up the rocky sides to jump from the top. The small pool can get crowded so visit early or late in the day.

Otter Falls, Phoenicia

The small village of Phoenicia is nestled along Esopus Creek and surrounded by the beautiful Catskill mountains. Otter Falls has an 18-foot waterfall pouring into a winding gorge with pools and smaller cascades above and below. The large pool at the base of the falls is a popular local hangout spot on hot days. Wear water shoes when climbing on the slippery rocks around the pools.

Vernooy Kill Falls, Kerhonkson

Kerhonkson is a small Catskills town located along Rondout Creek known for fishing and kayaking. Vernooy Kill Falls has a series of cascading pools and small waterfalls perfect for swimming on a hot day. The falls are located in Sam’s Point Preserve, where you can hike to the falls from the visitor’s center or park at the nearby trailhead. Visit during the week for the most secluded experience.

Stony Kill Falls, Town of Hunter

The town of Hunter provides easy access to Stony Kill Falls, which plunges nearly 90 feet into an incredible green pool surrounded by rock cliffs. Enjoy jaw-dropping views from above, or carefully descend to the base for a brisk swim. Getting to the base involves a steep, challenging hike, so wear proper footwear.

Conclusion

The Catskills offer countless options for cooling dips this summer. Prepare properly, be aware of risks like slippery rocks, always check water depth before diving, and never swim alone. With the right precautions, you’ll make unforgettable memories at these secluded swimming holes.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © The American Explorer/Shutterstock.com