Kerhonkson Travel Guide

Discover all the best things to see and do in Kerhonkson, from outdoor adventures to cultural attractions to unique local food and drink scene, as well as tips on where to stay, how to get there, and much more.


Introduction to Kerhonkson

Nestled in the heart of Ulster County, in the Catskills region of upstate New York, Kerhonkson is a charming small town that offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, cultural exploration, and relaxation. Known for its scenic beauty, vibrant arts scene, and rich history, Kerhonkson is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world.

List of Places to Visit in Kerhonkson

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Minnewaska State Park Preserve
  • Mohonk Preserve
  • Sam’s Point Preserve
  • D&H Canal Historical Society Museum
  • Klyne Esopus Museum
  • Woodstock Museum
  • Gomez Mill House
  • Huguenot Street National Historic Landmark District

Natural Attractions of Kerhonkson: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Shawangunk Ridge
  • Awosting Falls
  • VerKeerderkill Falls
  • Lake Awosting
  • Stony Kill Falls
  • Vernooy Kill Falls
  • Catskill Mountains
  • Hudson River

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kerhonkson

Whether you want to hike, bike, or just stroll around and take in the natural beauty of the area, Kerhonkson has plenty of trails and parks to explore. Some of the most popular options include:

  • Mohonk Preserve trails
  • Minnewaska State Park Preserve trails
  • Shawangunk Ridge Trail
  • Sam’s Point Preserve trails
  • Catskill Mountains trails
  • Hudson Valley Rail Trail

Best Things to Do in Kerhonkson: Activities and Tours

  • Rock climbing or bouldering at Shawangunk Ridge
  • Wine tasting at Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery or Robibero Winery
  • Horseback riding at Pine Ridge Dude Ranch or Arrowhead Farms
  • Hot air balloon ride over the Hudson Valley
  • Art classes or workshops at Wired Gallery or Unison Arts Center
  • Guided ATV tours or paintball games at New York Zipline Adventures
  • Skiing or snowboarding at Belleayre Mountain or Hunter Mountain
  • Fishing or kayaking on the Hudson River or Rondout Creek

Week-Long Itinerary for Kerhonkson

Day 1: Arrival, check into your accommodation, and explore a local museum or historical site.

Day 2: Hike or bike through one of the nature preserves, such as Minnewaska State Park Preserve or Mohonk Preserve.

Day 3: Take a scenic drive or hot air balloon ride over the Hudson Valley or Catskill Mountains.

Day 4: Enjoy some of the local food and drink offerings, such as wine tasting or a farm-to-table dining experience.

Day 5: Experience some adrenaline-fueled activities, like a zipline tour, ATV ride or paintball game.

Day 6: Relax with a spa day at one of the local wellness centers.

Day 7: Departure, but not before you stop at a local shop to pick up some unique souvenirs and local products.

Food and Drink Scene of Kerhonkson

Must-Try Dishes

  • Wood-fired pizza at Westwind Orchard & Cidery
  • Grass-fed beef at farmers markets or local restaurants
  • Homemade apple pie at Kelder’s Farm

Local Beverages

  • Hard cider at Westwind Orchard & Cidery or Brooklyn Cider House
  • Craft beer at Arrowood Farms Brewery or Forestburgh Brewery
  • Wine at Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery or Robibero Winery

Where to Stay in Kerhonkson: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Pinegrove Family Dude Ranch
  • Hudson Valley Resort & Spa
  • Honor’s Haven Resort & Spa
  • Starlite Motel
  • Arrowhead Ranch and Retreat Center
  • Tuthill House at The Mill

What to Buy in Kerhonkson: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade pottery or ceramics at Kelder’s Farm Market
  • Local honey or maple syrup at farmers markets or local shops
  • Vintage clothing or vinyl records at Nob Hill Trading Post

Local Culture and Customs of Kerhonkson

Kerhonkson has a strong appreciation for the arts and local history, with several museums and galleries showcasing works by local artists. The town is also home to many locally-owned shops and businesses, and the residents are friendly and welcoming to visitors.

Best Time to Visit Kerhonkson

The best time to visit Kerhonkson is during the fall, when the leaves change color and the weather is mild. The summer months are also popular, but can be crowded with tourists. In the winter, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding, while the spring is perfect for hiking and wildflower spotting.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kerhonkson

Do:

  • Respect nature and leave no trace when hiking or camping.
  • Sample the local food and drink offerings, such as hard cider, craft beer, and farm-to-table cuisine.
  • Take in the local art and history, by visiting the many museums and galleries in town.
  • Practice eco-friendly habits by recycling, conserving water, and using public transportation when possible.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Ignore local customs or traditions.
  • Engage in disruptive or illegal behavior.
  • Leave valuables unattended in your car or hotel room.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kerhonkson

Kerhonkson is a relatively safe town, but like any destination, visitors should take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Always lock your car and hotel room, and never leave valuables unattended. In case of emergencies, dial 911.

Health in Kerhonkson

There are no major health or safety concerns in Kerhonkson, but visitors should be aware of tick-borne illnesses and take precautions when hiking or camping in wooded areas. It is also a good idea to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit when spending time outdoors.

Getting to Kerhonkson: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kerhonkson

  • Albany International Airport (ALB)
  • Stewart International Airport (SWF)
  • Westchester County Airport (HPN)

Bus Stations Near Kerhonkson

  • Trailways
  • Greyhound

Other Options

  • Driving: Kerhonkson is conveniently located near several major highways, including Route 44/55, Route 209, and I-87.
  • Train: Amtrak’s Empire Service runs to nearby Poughkeepsie, with connecting bus service to Kerhonkson.

How to Get Around in Kerhonkson

Kerhonkson is small enough to explore on foot or by bike, and many of the major attractions are located within a short distance of one another. However, if you need to travel further, renting a car is a good option.

Where to Go Next from Kerhonkson: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • New Paltz
  • Woodstock
  • Kingston
  • Catskill Mountains
  • Hudson River Valley

Conclusion

Kerhonkson is a hidden gem in the Catskills region, with plenty of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and unique local food and drink scene. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, art and history, relaxation, or a combination of everything, Kerhonkson has something to offer. Plan your visit today and discover the beauty of this charming small town.

A view of the Catskill Mountains from Soyuzivka Ukrainian Resort in Kerhonkson. A view of the Catskill Mountains from Soyuzivka Ukrainian Resort in Kerhonkson.