Best natural monuments around Tannersville are characterized by the rugged terrain of the Catskill Mountains, offering diverse natural features. This region features significant geological formations, including dramatic waterfalls and expansive forest overlooks. The landscape is shaped by glacial activity, resulting in unique natural landmarks that attract visitors seeking outdoor exploration.
Last updated: July 10, 2026
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The last part of the hike to reach this viewpoint is quite a scramble, but the views are incredible. Be careful: You get such incredible views from this place because it's truly a ledge, with exactly the sort of long, steep drop-off that implies.
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The views from the top of Kaaterskill Falls are stunning, hikers can stand on a platform that extends over the forest edge, viewing the eastern Catskill Mountains and falls. Kaaterskill Falls, a two-stage waterfall on Spruce Creek, drops 260 feet from the top to the base of its second tier. As a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, it attracts over 200,000 visitors annually and has been a central attraction in the Catskill Park Forest Preserve since the early 1800s.
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Though the falls are relatively short, at only 15 feet, they are in a stunning location and make for great photos. Keep in mind that the falls may be easy to access the trail has plenty of rocks and can be slippery so proper footwear is essential. Also, this is a beautiful location all year round, but visiting during the fall color season is truly special.
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Rumor has it that this location served as a hideout for bandits in the area, earning it the name Badmans Cave. Although it's not technically a cave but more of a shelter, it remains a cool place with a unique history.
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Great forest overview and perfect for wide angle photos
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Wonderful forest overview and great for wide angle lens photos
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A rocky outcrop with incredible views. This is the perfect spot for a break (and for pictures!)
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Around Tannersville, you can explore several remarkable natural monuments. Highlights include the stunning View of Kaaterskill Falls from the Top, offering panoramic views of the eastern Catskill Mountains. Another popular spot is Kaaterskill Wild Forest Overlook, known for its expansive forest vistas. Further afield, you'll find the majestic Big Pocono State Park and the unique Tannersville Cranberry Bog.
The Tannersville area boasts diverse natural features. You can witness dramatic waterfalls like the 260-foot Kaaterskill Falls and the picturesque Diamond Notch Falls. The region also offers breathtaking panoramic viewpoints from places like Newman's Ledge and Big Pocono State Park. Additionally, the Tannersville Cranberry Bog presents a rare boreal bog ecosystem with unique plant life, including carnivorous plants and black spruce trees.
Yes, several natural monuments cater to families. Big Pocono State Park offers easy trails and picnic areas, making it accessible for all ages. Bushkill Falls, often called the 'Niagara Falls of Pennsylvania,' provides a network of well-maintained trails suitable for various skill levels, along with activities like paddle boating and gemstone mining. While the Tannersville Cranberry Bog's boardwalk is primarily for guided tours, its publicly accessible North Woods and Fern Ridge Trails offer pleasant walks.
The best time to visit largely depends on your interests. Summer and fall are particularly popular. Fall offers spectacular foliage, especially at Big Pocono State Park and around Diamond Notch Falls. The trails at Bushkill Falls are also beautiful during these seasons. For a unique ecological experience at the Tannersville Cranberry Bog, guided tours are available year-round, but spring and summer offer vibrant plant life.
Yes, the area has some interesting historical connections. Badmans Cave Shelter is rumored to have served as a hideout for bandits, giving it a unique local legend. The Tannersville Cranberry Bog itself is a National Natural Landmark, formed from a glacial depression about 13,000 years ago, offering a glimpse into ancient ecosystems.
The Tannersville area is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including the moderate Becker Hollow Trail and the challenging Devil's Path. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes like the Catskill Park loop. Runners can explore trails such as the Hunter Mountain loop. You can find more details on these activities in the Hiking around Tannersville, Road Cycling Routes around Tannersville, and Running Trails around Tannersville guides.
Absolutely. Many natural monuments are surrounded by hiking opportunities. For example, near Kaaterskill Falls, you can explore trails leading to the top viewpoint. Big Pocono State Park offers 8.5 miles of recreational trails, including the easier Indian Trail. Bushkill Falls features a network of color-coded trails ranging from easy to challenging, allowing you to explore all eight waterfalls. For more options, check the Hiking around Tannersville guide.
The Tannersville Cranberry Bog is a haven for diverse wildlife. It's home to various species, including bears, bobcats, and river otters. The unique boreal ecosystem also supports a wide array of bird species and insects, making it a fascinating spot for nature observation.
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Tannersville area delivers. The hike to Newman's Ledge involves a scramble but rewards with incredible, long-drop views. More extensive and difficult routes like the Devil's Path, which includes Indian Head, Twin, and Sugarloaf peaks, are also available for experienced hikers. You can find more challenging routes in the Hiking around Tannersville guide.
Loop trails are available for various activities. For hiking, the Roundtop Mountain and Kaaterskill High Peak Loop offers a moderate challenge, while the Sugarloaf Mountain Loop via Pecoy Notch and Mink Hollow Trails is a more difficult option. Runners can enjoy the Hunter Mountain loop or the Escarpment Trail loop. These and other loop options are detailed in the respective activity guides, such as Hiking around Tannersville.
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking views and photographic opportunities. For instance, the View of Kaaterskill Falls from the Top is celebrated for its stunning vistas of the Catskill Mountains. The Kaaterskill Wild Forest Overlook is popular for wide-angle photos. The scenic beauty of Diamond Notch Falls is also a highlight, especially during the fall color season. The unique history of places like Badmans Cave Shelter also adds to the appeal.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Tannersville: