Fido doesn’t need to chase cats when he can chase a good time in the Catskills instead! Take a walk around beautiful sculptures, paddle down the Delaware River or pedal along a disused train track together in this varied part of The Empire State.

Discover the Region’s Biggest Waterfall

Kaaterskill Falls Trail will lead you and your pooch to the highest cascading waterfall in New York and one of the top attractions in the region. At over 260 feet, Kaaterskill Falls is a stunning payoff at the end of a moderate, one-mile hike. Stop for a “paws” on the observation platform at the top and admire the cascades before hiking back to the trailhead.

Get Fido’s Tail on the Rails

Pedal with your pup on a unique journey with Rail Explorers in Phoenicia. Utilizing a mode of transportation that was once reserved for maintenance workers, this cool company allows visitors to be their own guides on disused railway tracks that wind through the trees. Small dogs can sit on your lap in Tandem or Quad Rail Explorers, while big dogs can sit comfortably on a rail bike’s platform. If you prefer a guided ride, book a golden hour tour for great photos of the Catskills, and don’t forget to #bringfido.

Enjoy a Walk in the Park

Art Omi is a pet-friendly, not-for-profit arts center with a 120-acre sculpture and architecture park and gallery. The distinctive park contains more than 60 works by artists and architects that are added to, swapped out and developed every year. Leashed pups can join their owners throughout the outdoor areas for a scenic sculpture stroll or to check out the talented skateboarders performing tricks in The Ceremonial Bowl, a concrete sculpture built for the sport.

Set Off on a Mountain Meander

One of the best ways to get a taste of any region is to drive through it. The Catskill Mountain Scenic Byway is a 52-mile route that winds through the heart of the Central Catskills. As the road follows the Esopus Creek and the Delaware River, visitors can enjoy unrivaled mountain views and make stops in the towns of Olive, Shandaken, Middletown and Andes along the way.

Next Stop “Pawradise”

Delaware and Ulster Railroad is a historic gem that takes people and pups for an unforgettable train ride in the Catskills. Dogs are invited to join their owners on the Excursion Train where Fido will receive his very own ticket to keep for his scrapbook. The two-hour trip spans 24 miles of relatively flat land between the historic towns of Arkville and Roxbury. For the most scenic journey, take a fall train ride and pass through tunnels of trees that display an array of vivid colors with the silhouette of the Catskill Mountains in the distance.

Explore the Delaware River

Founded in 1955, Lander’s River Trips has been helping people and pups explore the Delaware River for generations. Your pooch can join you for no additional cost in a kayak or canoe as you paddle along the gentle river. For an additional fee of $25, dogs are also invited along for a wet and wild journey with a guide on a river raft adventure.

Play Off-Leash

Let your dog loose at Kingston Point Dog Park, a community park divided into separate sections for small and large pups. Meet local mutts and play a game of fetch on the grass, then take a walk around neighboring Sojourner Truth State Park. New York’s newest state park honors African American abolitionist and suffragist Sojourner Truth and features one mile of the Hudson River shoreline with overlooks of pretty vistas.

From luxurious lodgings surrounded by nature to unique homes deep in the woods, these pet-friendly hotels and Airbnbs are sure to improve any Catskills getaway.

Spend the Night in Riverland

Hotel Darby is situated on the banks of the Delaware River. This sprawling 17-acre property offers something for every dog. Fido can relax by the wood stove in your room or around the fire pit outside, take to the property’s trails or join you for a stroll over the bridge into Narrowsburg for dinner. Don’t forget to ask about the big bag of treats and tennis balls behind the front desk.

Contain Fido’s Excitement

Book somewhere special on your next vacation to the Catskills like this cozy container cabin. For an off-grid getaway, drift off in this secluded spot with a wood stove, record player, fire ring, yoga platform, 30-foot waterfall and a hammock for hanging out in. If this one is reserved when you need it, check out the property’s 40-Foot container cabin and cabin in the field instead.

Budget and Beautiful

Catskill Seasons Inn is a great place to stay with your pooch whatever the season. This affordable hotel offers a variety of pet-friendly options in the chalet section, including apartments with hardwood floors and mountain views. Outside, enjoy a picnic on the benches or take a walk down to the creek together.

Airstream with your Alsatian

Spend the night in a luxury Airstream at Autocamp Catskills. Retrofitted vintage Airstreams aren’t the only option here. Guests can also stay in tiny homes with vista views through sweeping windows or in a luxury tent immersed in nature. Dogs are welcome to join their owners on experiences offered at Autocamp Catskills like forest bathing and other mindful outdoor activities.

Peace and Tranquility in Woodstock

Hang out with your hippy hound at the Woodstock Way Hotel. This contemporary lodging is tucked behind a waterfall along a babbling brook in the historic town of Woodstock. Swing open your balcony doors and enjoy the sights of a native tree canopy and the sounds of water flowing by. The low-carbon property was built with reclaimed wood and has a living roof system.

A Grand Stay Awaits…

Kenoza Hall is the “pawfect” destination for outbound hounds. Fido can frolic along the property’s pet-friendly trails that wind around 55 acres of countryside and offer views of Kenoza Lake. Then he can relax by your side in the welcoming Parlor Room or by the pool. At the end of the day, he can curl up in the dog bed provided and put his paws up for the evening in your cozy room.

Fall Asleep to the Sound of a Creek

Sleep soundly at this creekside cabin in Phoenicia. While you’re here, dine out on the deck, explore the woods and relax with your best friend in a tranquil Catskills setting. After sunset, stargaze with Fido around the fire pit by the creek.

Bask in the Beer Garden

If you enjoy relaxing in a beer garden with your best friend, make tracks for Schatzi's Pub & Bier Garden in New Paltz. Four-legged “pawtrons” can find shade on sunny days on the dog-friendly patio, while people drink from a dozen craft beers available on tap and enjoy menu items like pierogies, burgers, brats and grilled ribeye steak.

Has Fido Ever Tried “Dognola?”

Phoenicia Diner not only welcomes dogs but offers “Dognola” (granola for dogs) and water for your pup from the on-site Airstream. Your pooch can enjoy his own breakfast while you eat pancakes, French toast or eggs benedict.

Sample Cider in the Countryside

Set up by two cider-loving siblings, Brooklyn Cider House at Twin Star Orchards provides farm-fresh food, paired with natural cider made with heirloom apples straight from the barrel. Take Fido along to join the welcoming crowds for live music, wood-fired pizza and a crisp taste of cider.

Beer + Food Truck

The Catskill Brewery & Food Truck is a dog-friendly spot in Livingston Manor, NY. Fido is welcome to join you at an outdoor table or inside the taproom for a pint or tasting. They offer their own food truck on site that serves up sandwiches, salads, pizza and more.

Try Catskills Wine

Bashakill Vineyards welcomes well-behaved dogs and their owners to enjoy a beautiful outdoor space and delicious wine made on the premises. Nestled in the foothills of the Catskills, this sustainable winery on a nature preserve has plenty of room to explore or just relax at one of the outdoor tables instead.