Overview
High Falls is a small hamlet in Ulster County, New York, situated in the Hudson Valley about 90 miles north of New York City. With a population of roughly 600 people, it is one of the more quietly distinctive communities in the Catskill foothills — known for the waterfall on Roeliff Jansen Kill that gives the hamlet its name, and for the remnants of the Delaware and Hudson (D&H) Canal that once passed through here in the 19th century.
The hamlet sits within the town of Marbletown and draws visitors interested in history, hiking, local art, and the slower pace of rural Hudson Valley life. It is a short drive from better-known destinations like Woodstock, New Paltz, and Stone Ridge, making it a natural add-on to a broader regional itinerary or a peaceful retreat in its own right.
Despite its size, High Falls has a modest but genuine local food and arts scene, anchored by a handful of independent businesses that have given the hamlet a reputation as a low-key creative enclave. Travelers who appreciate authenticity over spectacle tend to find it rewarding.
Before You Go
Visas
High Falls is in the United States. For entry requirements, check TravelerPulse's Visas section and the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website (cbp.gov) or your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
What to Expect
High Falls is rural and very small. There are no large hotels, chain restaurants, or big-box stores. Services are limited, and some businesses keep irregular hours or may be closed on weekdays — verify hours before visiting. Cell service can be patchy in surrounding rural areas.
Seasonality
- Spring (April–June): Waterfall flow is strongest; trails can be muddy after rain.
- Summer (July–August): Peak visitor season; warm and green, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Fall (September–October): Foliage is a major draw throughout Ulster County; weekends can be busy.
- Winter (November–March): Quiet; some local businesses reduce hours or close. Ice and snow are common.
Getting There
High Falls is most easily reached by car. From New York City, take the New York State Thruway (I-87) north to Exit 18 (New Paltz) and follow local roads through Rosendale and Stone Ridge — the drive typically takes around 90 minutes depending on traffic.
Public transportation to High Falls itself is limited. Trailways and Adirondack Trailways operate bus service to nearby New Paltz, from which you would need a rideshare or rental car to reach High Falls (roughly 10 miles). Verify current schedules and routes on the Trailways website before travel.
The nearest major airports are Stewart International Airport (SWF) in Newburgh, roughly 30 miles southeast, and John F. Kennedy, LaGuardia, or Newark airports serving the New York City metro area. A rental car from the airport is the most practical option.
Getting Around
A personal vehicle is essentially required to get around High Falls and the surrounding area comfortably. The hamlet itself is small enough to walk once you are there, but reaching nearby trails, towns, and attractions requires driving.
Rideshare availability (Uber, Lyft) in this part of Ulster County is inconsistent, particularly outside peak hours. Do not rely on it as your primary transportation. Local taxi services exist in the broader region — verify options in advance through a local search.
Bicycling is possible on quieter local roads for confident cyclists, and the region has some multi-use trails, but dedicated cycling infrastructure is minimal.
Where to Stay
High Falls itself has no large hotels. Accommodation options in and immediately around the hamlet tend to be bed-and-breakfasts, small inns, and vacation rental properties (listed on platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo). Availability is limited, so booking well in advance is advisable, particularly for fall foliage weekends.
Nearby towns provide more options: New Paltz has a broader range of lodging including chain hotels, and there are boutique inns and farm stays scattered across Ulster County. Woodstock and Kingston also offer accommodation suitable as bases for visiting High Falls.
Verify current availability and reviews on your preferred booking platform, and confirm cancellation policies — rural properties vary widely in their terms.
Things to See & Do
D&H Canal Museum
The Delaware and Hudson Canal Historical Society operates a small museum in High Falls dedicated to the 19th-century canal that transported coal from Pennsylvania to New York City. The canal system was a significant feat of engineering in its time. The museum includes exhibits on local and canal history; verify current opening hours and admission on the museum's official website before visiting.
High Falls Gorge and the Waterfall
The waterfall and gorge on the Roeliff Jansen Kill (also spelled Rondout Creek's tributary) are the hamlet's natural centerpiece. A short walk from the village brings you to views of the falls. Conditions and access can vary by season; trails may be informal, so wear appropriate footwear.
Five Locks Walk
A popular local trail follows the remnants of the D&H Canal, passing the remains of five consecutive canal locks — an unusually dense concentration. The walk is relatively flat and manageable for most fitness levels. Trail access points and current conditions are worth confirming locally before you go.
Exploring the Hudson Valley
High Falls is well-positioned as a base for day trips to Mohonk Preserve and the Shawangunk Ridge (known locally as the Gunks), the village of Woodstock, the historic town of Kingston, and the farms and markets of Stone Ridge and Accord. The region as a whole offers hiking, cycling, and cultural attractions across a compact area.
Food & Drink
High Falls has a small but respected local dining scene for its size. The hamlet has historically been home to a few independent restaurants and a café or two, though small businesses in rural areas can change ownership or hours — confirm what is currently open before your visit.
The broader area around High Falls — including Stone Ridge, Accord, and New Paltz — has a more developed dining landscape, with farm-to-table restaurants reflecting the agricultural character of Ulster County. Locally grown produce, dairy, and meats feature prominently in the region's food culture.
For groceries and supplies, New Paltz (about 10 miles away) has supermarkets and a wider range of options. Stock up before arriving if you plan to self-cater, as in-hamlet options are very limited.
Practical Information
Emergency Services
Dial 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies anywhere in the United States.
Connectivity
Wi-Fi is available at some local businesses. Mobile coverage can be inconsistent in rural parts of Ulster County — download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before your trip.
Cash and Cards
Most businesses accept major credit and debit cards, but small local shops or farm stands may be cash-only. Carry some cash. The nearest ATMs are in New Paltz or Stone Ridge.
Weather Preparedness
Weather in the Catskill foothills can change quickly, particularly in spring and fall. Pack layers, rain gear, and waterproof footwear if you plan to hike or walk the gorge trails.
Safety
High Falls is a quiet, low-crime rural community. Standard common-sense precautions apply: secure your vehicle, do not leave valuables visible, and let someone know your plans if hiking in remote areas.
Trail conditions around the gorge and falls can be uneven and slippery when wet. Stay on marked paths and respect any posted closures. The nearest hospital facilities are in Kingston (about 15 miles north) — verify the location of the nearest emergency room before your trip.
