Columbia County is the perfect recreational spot for all ages and interests. It is easy to take advantage of activities year-round and enjoy the stunning natural resources that the region has to offer. Activities range from skiing, snowboarding and ice skating in the winter, to kayaking, bicycling, swimming, fishing, and hiking in the summer. These are just some of the plentiful recreational opportunities available in Columbia County during any season.
Winter Activities
Don’t let cold weather stop you from experiencing the excitement and beauty of Columbia County…
20 different sites are open to cross country skiers and snowshoers during the winter season. Skiers can find 32 trails and parks with vast terrain variety at Catamount Ski Area on Route 23 in Hillsdale. Catamount has snowmaking equipment, and trails are lighted for night skiing from Wednesday through Saturday. For more information call 518-325-3200. The surrounding region offers additional skiing and snowboarding at Hunter Mountain and Windham Mountain in Greene County and Jiminy Peak, Butternut, and Bousquet Ski Area in nearby Massachusetts.
Copake Park offers a large assortment of snowmobiling trails and a rink for ice skating.
Enjoy a day of ice skating at Lake Taghkanic State Park or at Hudson Park Outdoor Ice Skating Area.
Spring, Summer and Fall Activities
Once the weather gets warmer, your possibilities to explore Columbia County are endless…
Multiple State parks and forests all offer places for people of every age to walk, hike, and climb and explore.
Outdoors men and women have an abundance of fishing and hunting opportunities throughout the County, please visit Columbia County Tourism for more information.
Many nature preserves and wildlife conservation areas exist in the County under supervision of the Columbia Land Conservancy (CLC) including:
Hand Hollow, 4079 County Road 9, New Lebanon
Ooms, 480 Rock City Road, Chatham
Schor, 58 Shore View Road, Red Rock/Canaan
Borden’s Pond, 1628 Route 203, Ghent
Siegel-Kine Kill, 1452 County Route 21, Ghent
Harris, Bloody Hill Road, Austerlitz
Harrier Hill Park, 6729 Rod and Gun Club Road, Stockport
Greenport Conservation Area, 319 Joslen Blvd, Greenport
High Falls Conservation Area, 540 Roxbury Road, Philmont
Drowned Lands Swamp, 653 Route 3, Ancram
Round Ball Trailhead- Overmountain, 503 Carson Road, Ancram
Kite Hill Trailhead-Overmountain, 138 Catalano Road, Ancram
All of these conservation areas provide a place for individuals interested in hiking and nature to experience the outdoors and the impressive wildlife habitats that Columbia County has to offer. CLC Public Conservation Areas.
The Catamount Adventure Park offers a ropes activity course open to all ages and all levels of experience.
Lebanon Valley Speedway is where racing fans watch stock car, drag racing and special events at on US Route 20 in New Lebanon. For more information please call 518-794-9965.
Kayaking, canoeing, sailing, and boat cruises can all be experienced on the nearby Hudson River, or on one of the numerous lakes and creeks throughout Columbia County.
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy any of six private and public golf courses in the County.
Horseback riding, farm tours, aviation and hot air balloon rides, swimming, and much more are available for your enjoyment in Columbia County.
Dining and Shopping
Antique shops, auction houses, home furnishings, clothing, jewelry, books, high-end crafts, gourmet food items and more can be found on our main streets, in country settings, and in nearby shopping malls. Whether you desire high end crafts or require basic staples, you can meet your needs without leaving the County.
The restaurant selection is just as varied as the shopping. Whether you are looking for a quick snack, a family diner, a familiar fast food chain, or an elegant dining experience there are many options to choose from. Fresh, local food is available in abundance and at all price points. Many of the outstanding chefs in the area have been trained nearby at the Culinary Institute of America. Columbia County is reflective of the Hudson Valley’s reputation for fine food that is thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented.
Most every town in Columbia County features a retail district that provides interesting and assorted shops, eating and drinking establishments, entertainment and night life.
For a complete listing of recreational opportunities, restaurants and shopping areas visit the Columbia County Office of Tourism website or call (800) 724-1846.
