There are so many locations in Upstate New York that have beautiful scenic landscape views. Which serve as perfect backdrops for elopements and micro weddings. Below are 20 scenic elopement locations in the Catskills and Hudson Valley, each with details on accessibility, hiking trails, and links for more information.

1. Minnewaska State Park Preserve

Location: Gardiner, NY
Difficulty: Moderate
Details: With views of the Shawangunk Ridge, Minnewaska is known for its cliffs and pristine waterfalls. There are several accessible viewpoints like Lake Minnewaska that don’t require extensive hiking, while trails such as the Gertrude’s Nose hike offer more challenging options for adventurous couples.
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2. Kaaterskill Falls

Location: Hunter, NY
Difficulty: Moderate
Details: One of New York’s tallest waterfalls, Kaaterskill Falls is a breathtaking two-tier waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. A short but steep hike leads to a stunning view of the falls. Perfect for adventurous couples, though crowds can gather during peak season.
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3. Mohonk Mountain House

Location: New Paltz, NY
Difficulty: Easy
Details: This historic resort is nestled among forests, gardens, and a private lake. The grounds are easily accessible and offer a variety of scenic spots like the Sky Top Tower. No hiking required. Perfect for couples who prefer elegance and charm.
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4. Overlook Mountain

Location: Woodstock, NY
Difficulty: Moderate
Details: The Overlook Mountain trail is a 5-mile round-trip hike that rewards you with panoramic views of the Hudson Valley and Catskills. Ruins of an old hotel along the trail add a mystical touch.
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5. Poet’s Walk Park

Location: Red Hook, NY
Difficulty: Easy
Details: This romantic, gently rolling 2-mile trail offers a scenic landscape reminiscent of paintings, with open fields, wooded areas, and river views. The ease of access makes it perfect for a peaceful and intimate elopement.
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6. Sams Point Preserve

Location: Cragsmoor, NY
Difficulty: Moderate
Details: Part of Minnewaska State Park, this area features rocky ridges, ice caves, and the stunning Verkeerder Kill Falls. There are easier areas to access for photos or more intense hikes for adventurous couples.
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7. Ashokan Reservoir

Location: Olivebridge, NY
Difficulty: Easy
Details: Nestled between the Catskill Mountains and offering incredible views of the surrounding peaks, this reservoir provides a stunning, peaceful backdrop for an elopement. Easy walking paths allow for a relaxed experience.
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8. Olana State Historic Site

Location: Hudson, NY
Difficulty: Easy
Details: Perched atop a hill, Olana offers breathtaking views of the Hudson River and surrounding landscapes. The Persian-inspired architecture adds a unique touch to the site’s scenic beauty. Easily accessible and perfect for couples looking for an artistic and historic vibe.
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9. Hunter Mountain

Location: Hunter, NY
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Details: Offering a mix of hiking trails and a scenic Skyride, Hunter Mountain provides both rugged and easy-to-reach locations for an elopement. The summit offers some of the best views in the Catskills.
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10. Storm King Art Center

Location: New Windsor, NY
Difficulty: Easy
Details: This large outdoor sculpture park provides a unique backdrop with rolling hills, fields, and larger-than-life art installations. It’s easily accessible and perfect for couples seeking a blend of nature and modern art.
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11. North-South Lake

Location: Haines Falls, NY
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Details: North-South Lake offers a variety of scenic spots from lakeside views to mountain vistas along short hikes like the Escarpment Trail, which leads to the famous Artist’s Rock and Sunset Rock.
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12. Thacher Park

Location: Voorheesville, NY
Difficulty: Easy
Details: Thacher State Park offers a short, accessible walk with stunning views and plenty of parking. Making it ideal for couples seeking vast views without a strenuous hike.
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13. Bash Bish Falls

Location: Copake, NY
Difficulty: Moderate
Details: A beautiful waterfall located on the New York-Massachusetts border, Bash Bish Falls is one of the most scenic spots in the region. A short but steep hike will lead you to this tranquil destination.
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14. Giant Ledge

Location: Big Indian, NY
Difficulty: Moderate
Details: The Giant Ledge hike offers some of the best views in the Catskills with relatively short, but steep, ascents. The vistas are perfect for sunrise or sunset elopements.
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15. Black Dome Range

Location: Maplecrest, NY
Difficulty: Difficult
Details: For couples seeking a more adventurous and secluded experience, Black Dome offers a challenging hike with dramatic views of the Catskills. Ideal for those willing to trek deeper into the wilderness.
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16. Hudson Highlands State Park

Location: Cold Spring, NY
Difficulty: Easy to Difficult
Details: The park offers a variety of landscapes from riverside paths to challenging hikes like Breakneck Ridge. Whether you’re looking for river views or mountain overlooks, this park has diverse options.
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17. Bethel Woods

Location: Bethel, NY
Difficulty: Easy
Details: Known for being the site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, Bethel Woods offers rolling hills, meadows, and historic charm. It’s a unique, music-inspired backdrop for an outdoor elopement.
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18. Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site

Location: Hyde Park, NY
Difficulty: Easy
Details: This historic estate sits on the banks of the Hudson River, offering stunning views of the river and mountains. The manicured gardens and grand architecture make for an elegant and easily accessible location.
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19. Lighthouse Park

Location: Saugerties, NY
Difficulty: Easy
Details: Situated along the Hudson River, this lighthouse offers a peaceful and picturesque setting. Easily accessible via a short trail, it’s perfect for an intimate waterside ceremony.
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20. Plattekill Mountain

Location: Roxbury, NY
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Details: Plattekill offers both ski slopes and summer trails with expansive mountain views. Whether you’re seeking a winter wonderland or a summer escape, this location is versatile and stunning.
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Summary of 20 Scenic Elopement Locations in the Catskills and Hudson Valley

These 20 Scenic Elopement Locations in the Catskills and Hudson Valley offer diverse options, from easy-to-reach parks to challenging mountain vistas, all perfect for an unforgettable Upstate New York elopement. To begin planning your intimate wedding, send me a message! We’ll craft personalized experience based on my elopement photography packages to make your dream day come to life.