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Top Travel Destinations From New York to the Catskills
If you’re flying into JFK International Airport, you probably already know how great New York City is. But have you ever explored the wonders of the rest of the state of New York? When you rent a car at JFK, the beautiful Catskill Mountains are just a short jaunt away from some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the country. No matter what rental car you select, you’re sure to have a real New York adventure. On your way from the city to the Catskills, be sure to stop by some of the state’s top travel destinations.
Harriman State Park
Seven Lakes Dr, Bear Mountain, NY 10974
The first popular travel destination for northbound travelers from New York City is Harriman State Park, located in the Palisades Region of New York. Harriman is something of a hiking Mecca for the outdoorsy visitors and residents of the state. The park boasts 200 miles of scenic hiking trails, 31 crystal clear lakes and reservoirs, and two sandy beaches. Some highly recommended easy to moderate level hikes include: Fingerboard Shelter, Pine Swamp Loop, Jackie Jones Fire Tower, and Reeves Brook Circular.
Apart from the hiking, visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating in the park. You can also search for an airplane that crashed in the woods in 1974.
Stewart State Forest
Rock Tavern, NY 12575
Once you reach Stewart State Forest, you’ll be at the borders of the Palisades and the Catskill Mountains. The forest is known for its amazing hiking, fishing, and hunting. In fact, during the big game season, the forest is closed off to non-hunters, so take that into account when planning your trip. The forest is a New York State Watchable Wildlife site, where you can observe spotted salamanders, bobcats, wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, coyotes, great blue herons, and more. Also, there is a boardwalk over the Great Swamp that connects the east and west sides of the forest, making more trails accessible for hikers and hunters.
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
5281 Route 44-55, Kerhonkson, NY 12446
When you’ve made it to Minnewaska State Park and Preserve, you’ll be in the Eastern Catskills. Minnewaska is a fascinating place to visit. Beloved for its waterfalls, cliff faces, forests, and clear lakes that mirror the sky, the park boasts 50 miles of footpaths to explore. The parks service recently completed a new project, the Stony Kill Area Trail, which takes hikers up to misty vistas at Stony Kill Falls. Rock climbers flock to the Shawangunk Mountain ridge for its extreme vertical reach—which is up to 2,000 feet above sea level.
After you’ve visited Minnewaska, you have the whole Catskill Mountain Range to enjoy and explore. Head north and west for some of the prettiest sights in New York, and maybe even visit Woodstock, since you’re in the area. Wherever you roam, you’re sure to find some of America’s best scenery.
New York Car Rental
Avis is committed to giving you the best road trip experience possible with your New York rental car. To help you save money on toll roads and bridges, our e-toll service is available at our JFK location. With the Avis Best Rate Guarantee, you can save even more! Whatever car you’re looking to drive during your stay, Avis Rent a Car locations across New York state are here to help you have the best road trip possible.