Attractions and Places To See in Ulster County - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Ulster County, located in New York's Hudson Valley, offers a diverse range of experiences. The region is characterized by its natural beauty, including parts of the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson River, alongside a rich history and vibrant arts scene. It features numerous landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites, providing varied points of interest for visitors.
Best attractions and places to see in Ulster County
- The most popular attractions is Walkway Over the Hudson, a bridge that offers unique views of the Hudson River and surrounding landscape. This former railway bridge has been transformed into a pedestrian park, providing wide paths for both riders and walkers.
- Another must-see spot is Nice old railway bridge with a view, a bridge crossing along the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. It offers great views of the Rosendale area.
- Visitors also love Hudson Valley Rail Trail, a cycle way that remains car free. This trail is in very good condition and allows for fast progress through wooded areas.
- Ulster County is known for its historical sites, natural features like lakes and waterfalls, and extensive trail networks. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from scenic viewpoints to family-friendly activities.
- The attractions in Ulster County are appreciated by the komoot community, with 78 highlights, 21 photos, and 85 upvotes.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Walkway Over the Hudson
Highlight • Bridge
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Overlook Mountain Fire Tower
Highlight • Viewpoint
The fire tower was built in 1950 and is one of 5 remaining fire towers in the Catskill Park.
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Walkway Over the Hudson
Highlight (Segment) • Bridge
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Huguenot Street Historic District
Highlight • Historical Site
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Nice old railway bridge with a view
Highlight • Bridge
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Lake Minnewaska
Highlight • Lake
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Onteora Lake
Highlight • Lake
Originally, the lake was created by damming the Esopus Creek in the early 1900s.
There are also mountain biking and hiking trails here, of varying levels of difficulty.
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Millbrook Mountain
Highlight • Summit
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Hudson Valley Rail Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Awosting Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
Note that it can get quite busy here as it is only approximately 10 minutes walk from a car park.
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Tips from the Community
What a beautiful description! You can perfectly picture this lake surrounded by cliffs and trees, offering a peaceful and natural atmosphere. The idea of a refreshing swim after a long summer hike makes you want to dive right in. https://www.ez-passnc.com
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Awosting Falls is always gorgeous, regardless of season and recent rainfall. It is an easy walk from the parking lot with other little falls and pools on the way up, making it a great trail for small kids. You can see the falls from both the top and bottom via a short trail.
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From the fire tower, the 360° view is impressive. The Ashokan Reservoir, the Hudson Valley and the small Echo Lake are visible from the top of the tower. Access is closed during the winter months. Luckily during our visit the ranger had come to open the tower since the weather was nice and it was the holidays. From the Overlook point, however, the view is limited by the trees.
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Pedestrian and bicycle bridge over the Hudson. Very long bridge with great views.
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The Walkway Over the Hudson, also known as the Poughkeepsie Bridge, is a steel cantilever bridge spanning the Hudson River between Poughkeepsie and Highland. Originally it was built as a railroad bridge in 1889, then closed in 1974 due to fire damage and later reopened as a pedestrian walkway in 2009. It connects the Hudson Valley Rail Trail with the Dutchess Rail Trail and is part of the Empire State Trail. Stretching 6,768 feet, it was the world’s longest pedestrian footbridge until 2016. The bridge is free to access and welcomes cyclists as well as foot traffic.
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Trail hike around a lake. Be sure you have GPS with you could get lost. Trail not marked except by foot path.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore in Ulster County?
Ulster County is rich in natural beauty. You can visit Lake Minnewaska, known for its scenic views, or discover waterfalls like Awosting Falls and Rainbow Falls in Minnewaska State Park Preserve, which are particularly impressive after heavy rain or snowmelt. Onteora Lake offers a tranquil spot for watersports and hiking. The region also encompasses parts of the Catskill Mountains and the Shawangunk Mountains, providing extensive natural landscapes.
Are there good hiking opportunities in Ulster County?
Yes, Ulster County offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can explore trails around Lake Minnewaska and the Minnewaska State Park Preserve. For panoramic views, consider hiking to the Overlook Mountain Fire Tower. The Mohonk Preserve also offers extensive hiking trails. For more detailed routes, you can check out guides like Easy hikes in Ulster County.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints in Ulster County?
For breathtaking views, visit the Overlook Mountain Fire Tower, which offers panoramic vistas of the Hudson River Valley and the Ashokan Reservoir. The Walkway Over the Hudson provides unique views of the river and surrounding landscape. Additionally, the Nice old railway bridge with a view on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail offers great views of the Rosendale area.
What historical sites can I visit in Ulster County?
Ulster County is rich in history. Explore the Huguenot Street Historic District in New Paltz, a National Historic Landmark featuring stone-house museums. You can also visit the Senate House State Historic Site in Kingston, which served as New York State's first capitol, or the Saugerties Lighthouse, an iconic beacon on the Hudson River. The Hurley Heritage Society also offers insights into historic stone houses.
Are there cultural attractions or museums in the area?
Yes, Ulster County has a vibrant cultural scene. You can visit the Arts Society of Kingston (ASK) Gallery, the Hudson River Maritime Museum, or the Reher Center for Immigrant Culture and History. The Trolley Museum of New York and the Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art at SUNY New Paltz also offer unique experiences. For more information on local museums and heritage sites, you can visit ulstercountyny.gov.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Ulster County?
Many attractions in Ulster County are suitable for families. The Walkway Over the Hudson is a popular choice for all ages. Natural sites like Lake Minnewaska and Awosting Falls are also family-friendly. Beyond hiking, consider visiting the Woodstock Farm Sanctuary or the Headless Horseman Hayrides and Haunted Attractions during the seasonal period.
What are some popular cycling or rail trails in Ulster County?
Ulster County boasts excellent rail trails. The Hudson Valley Rail Trail is car-free and in very good condition, perfect for fast progress through wooded areas. The Ashokan Rail Trail is another prominent feature, offering scenic vistas. You can also find more cycling routes in guides like Gravel biking in Ulster County or MTB Trails in Ulster County.
What is the best time of year to visit Ulster County for outdoor activities?
Ulster County offers outdoor activities year-round. Spring and fall are particularly popular for hiking and enjoying the vibrant foliage. Waterfalls like Rainbow Falls are best visited after heavy rain or snowmelt. Winter provides opportunities for skiing at Belleayre Mountain Ski Center and cross-country skiing in areas like Mohonk Preserve.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions in Ulster County?
Yes, the Walkway Over the Hudson is a former railway bridge transformed into a pedestrian park with wide, accessible paths. The Hudson Valley Rail Trail is also noted for its accessibility, providing a smooth surface for various users.
What do visitors enjoy most about Ulster County attractions?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural scenery and the unique views. The Walkway Over the Hudson is loved for its fantastic views and wide paths. The Overlook Mountain Fire Tower is highlighted for its epic panoramic views of the Hudson River Valley and Ashokan Reservoir. Many also appreciate the well-maintained rail trails and the beauty of waterfalls like Rainbow Falls, especially after rainfall.
Can I find places for wild swimming in Ulster County?
While specific designated wild swimming spots can vary, the Hudson River and Onteora Lake offer opportunities for water-based recreation. It's always recommended to check local regulations and safety guidelines before swimming in natural bodies of water.
Are there any golf courses in Ulster County?
Yes, Ulster County boasts 12 golf courses, providing ample opportunities for golf enthusiasts to enjoy a round amidst the region's scenic landscapes.
Most popular routes in Ulster County
Most popular attractions in Ulster County
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