This Stunning Waterfall Hike Is One Of The Most Dangerous Trails In New York

To some, Upstate New York is all rolling hills, farmers' markets, and picture-perfect fall vacations. To others, it's where you go to experience the wilderness and lose yourself on trails, in forests, or beside a thundering waterfall. Few waterfalls are as stunning (or as infamous) as Kaaterskill Falls in the Catskill Mountains. Towering nearly 260 feet in two dramatic tiers, it attracts over 200,000 visitors a year, eager for a glimpse of its beauty.

Beyond the impressive views, Kaaterskill has a reputation for danger. With slick rocks, steep drop-offs, and more than a few tragic stories, the trail has earned its place as one of the most dangerous hikes in the Catskills, or even all of New York. Over the past 10 years alone, four people have died at or around the falls, and many more have been rescued. In all four of the most recent death scenarios, the people involved were said to be taking or posing for photos, underlining the dangers of trying to get the perfect shot.

But Kaaterskill is beautiful, and it's just a two-hour drive from New York City, making it a popular stop on a road trip. The risks shouldn't put you off visiting entirely. They should, however, make you think harder about how you prepare and how careful you are when you visit.

Before you leave the house, make sure you have appropriate footwear: you want hiking sneakers or boots with a good grip, not sandals or flip-flops. The trails can be slippery, and there are loose rocks and uneven surfaces to contend with. Check out our guide to the best budget hiking gear if you need something new. You'll also want plenty of drinking water, particularly in the summer months.

Next, decide how far you want to hike. The trail is fairly short at just 1.4 miles round-trip, but going all the way to the base of the falls means navigating 300 feet in elevation. If you hike down, make sure you can climb back up! Most visitors will be able to get to the first viewing platform, offering picturesque views over the falls. After that, the trail becomes steeper and less manicured, and less experienced hikers might want to turn back. If you continue, you'll wind your way down to the middle pool of the falls and then to the bottom, where you can admire the crashing waterfall from below.

One of the most important things is to stick to the trail. There are plenty of stunning views right from the marked path, so there's no need to wander off. Swimming is also discouraged, as is clambering around on the rocks at the base of the falls. Kaaterskill is best enjoyed with your boots firmly laced and your feet on the trail.