11. Mt. Tremper, New York (Catskills region)

Beautiful Esopus Creek in Mt. Tremper, New York

Mt. Tremper is a small community in the beautiful Catskills region of New York. This beautiful area of the state is a welcome nature oasis that is world’s apart from the hustle and bustle of New York City. The region has become a popular relaxing escape destination for those who live in hectic cities. Although many of the resorts in the area are uber expensive, there are some great deals if you plan your vacation in a less trendy area like Mt. Tremper.

Here you will find a beautiful budget friendly resort called the Emerson Resort and Spa. Cheap rates and special packages are offered throughout the year. The quiet setting on Esopus Creek combined with great amenities (mountain cabin style rentals, private decks facing the creek, a full spa, on site shops and restaurants), make this the perfect choice for a rejuvenating spring or fall getaway. Off season rates typically start in the low 100’s.

The Emerson Resort is in the perfect location for 4 season fun. The views are wonderful!

The Emerson Resort is in the perfect location for 4 season fun. The views are wonderful!

Rustic cabins provide the perfect setting for a quiet escape.

Rustic cabins provide the perfect setting for a quiet escape.

A gorgeous sunrise on Esopus Creek - at the Emerson Resort and Spa in Mt. Tremper, New York

Who can beat waking up to a view of a sunrise over the river?!

Mt. Tremper is located just a short ways away from many wonderful (and free!) natural attractions such as Kaaterskill Falls, the beautiful Ashokan Reservoir, the Catskill Mountain Railroad, and many state parks and hiking trails.

A visit to the gorgeous Ashokan Reservoir is a must!

A visit to the gorgeous Ashokan Reservoir is a must!

*Hiking to Kaaterskill Falls – This scenic hike to the 260 foot tall 2 tier waterfall is one of the most popular hikes in the area and for good reason. The views are absolutely incredible. The hike through the forest will lead you to a wonderful waterfall, which happens to be one of the tallest in New York. The hike is located near Tannersville New York, just a 35-40 minute (very scenic drive!) from the Mt. Tremper area.

Kaaterskill Falls in the Catskills region of new York

The gorgeous Kaaterskill Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in New York.

*Enjoying the tremendous views from the Walkway Over the Hudson –The  Walkway Over the Hudson is located in Poughkeepsie, about an hour or so from Mt. Tremper. A bit of a drive, but well worth it for the incredible mountain and water views you will take in as you make your way across the longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world (the bridge is 1.28 miles long and 212 feet tall). Weather permitting the bridge is open year round, enabling you to take in new views with each passing season. You can walk, ride your bike, and even skate across while enjoying the beautiful landscapes.

Beautiful views from the Walkway Over the Hudson in New York

With views like these and a tiny $5 entrance fee, the Walkway Over the Hudson is not to be missed!

*Seeing a show in the world’s largest kaleiodoscope – The Emerson Resort is home to The KaleidOscraper, the world’s largest kaleidoscope. It’s an interesting sight to see if you are staying at the resort, and also free ($5 for non hotel guests)! A strange, but visually appealing show that has earned a spot in the Guinness Book of World records. After the show, you can browse through the gift shop’s wide assortment of kaleiodoscopes for sale.