The Catskill Mountains and Hudson Valley are located in upstate New York, about two hours north of NYC. They offer some of the most beautiful scenery in the Northeast. There are so many romantic places to elope that are easy to get to or more adventurous in the mountains if you love hiking. I’ve narrowed down some top picks for you!

The Hudson Valley is home to some of the most scenic locations in the Northeast. It's a stunning place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy nature. There are many interesting places to visit in the area, including art galleries, wineries, breweries, and farms. 

The Catskill Mountains are located in upstate New York, close to the Hudson Valley and NYC. They stretch across three counties and contain over 1,000 square miles of land. The area is known for its natural beauty, which includes mountains, valleys, forests, lakes, ponds, streams, and wildlife. It's also home to many scenic state parks, where visitors can go for a hike along the river or mountains and woodlands and enjoy impressive views.

If you live in New York and are looking for an adventurous getaway, the Catskills and Hudson Valley region is just a short drive from New York City, yet feels worlds away with its wild and scenic beauty, peace and quiet.

I recommend a weekday elopement in Hudson Valley or the Catskills when there are less people at your chosen waterfall or summit of a hiking trail. If you are looking for other places to elope, check out my Top 14 Destinations in the Northeast, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Maine and more Dreamy Places to Elope in the Catskills

Best Outdoor Locations to Elope in The Hudson Valley + Catskills

Minnewaska State Park

Minnewaska State Park is one of the easiest places to elope in the Catskills. If you are looking for adventure, bring your gravel bikes and hiking boots.  There are over 50 miles of hiking trails throughout the park with gorgeous views of the lake, romantic waterfalls and woodlands. Pack a picnic and enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, rock-climbing, bouldering, boating and marveling at the scenery. Horseback riding and cross-country ski trails are available as well. There are so many great scenic views throughout the park and one of my favorite waterfalls is Awosting Falls, a short hike from the parking lot.

Kaaterskill Falls

The Catskills has so many beautiful waterfalls and Kaaterskill is a hot destination for many folks as it’s easy to get to the waterfalls. That is why I highly recommend an early morning, weekday for your secluded elopement. The Kaaterskill falls has a viewing platform, a beautiful hike down to the bottom of the falls and plenty of other viewing options. I have a ton of waterfall locations to choose from in my private guide.

Kenneth Wilson Campground

Don’t want to hike, but have mountain views? This beautiful campground has a lake, mountain views and woodlands with easy hiking trails.  Plus you can camp here if you like!  Not to mention restrooms and a covered pavilion in case it rains. Wonderful for an elopement and pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake.

Bear Mountain State Par

Just a short walk from the Bear Mountain Inn, you can have your first look on the docks of the Hudson River, stay at the Inn, have your elopement or small wedding there and head to the mountain top for sunset views!

Mohonk Preserve

What’s not to love about the Shawgunk mountains? It’s a climbers paradise! There are miles and miles of hiking + biking trails here with beautiful views. You can stay at Mohonk Mountain House for your elopement or small wedding and have direct access to the easier trails around the lake.

Check the New York State Park for maps and reservations before going. Some parks require a parking fee and reservation. 

Where to Stay + Elope in the Catskills + Hudson Valley

Patricia and Ali eloped at Mount Tremper Airbnb in the Catskills with mountain views.  Wait until you see my Airbnb recommendations in the Catskills and Hudson Valley when you book me! If you love modern design in the woods with mountain views, you are in luck! Get ready to drool over these luxurious homes.

If hiking a mountain isn’t your thing, a lot of Airbnb’s and venues will let you have your ceremony at their location. Some even have mountain views! I recommend asking your host about rates to elope before booking. For more of Ali + Patricia's Airbnb elopement in the Catskills, check this out!

Best Resorts in the Catskills + Hudson Valley

If you are looking for more luxury, you don’t want to miss these architectural wonders in The Catskills. The aesthetic incorporates the land, history and culture of the area. Some come complete with fine dining, resorts and spas.  Check out this article in New York Magazine’s, The Strategist for more boutique hotels  to stay! More reasons to love eloping and incorporating your honeymoon into your Catskills or Hudson Valley getaway.

Urban Cowboy Lodge

The spirit of The Cowboy has always been about freedom. Have a few drinks, play some music, take a bath and fall in love. It is a special place, an oasis for travelers, dreamers and romantics. Urban Cowboy is a magical place full of powerful design and human connection.

Eastwind

Go further into the Catskills at the all-new Eastwind, Oliverea Valley. Nestled in a lush mountainside with both sunrise and sunset views, this newly-built 27-room hotel includes Dandelion Restaurant & Bar, Eastwind's renowned Lushnas, outdoor pool, sauna, communal fire pit, and hammocks throughout.

Piaule

Experience your private cabin floating above the earth, statuesque and serene. A short hike away, the spa awaits. Refresh your body and mind in a circuit of wellness rituals. Just uphill from the spa, the restaurant offers a warm welcome in a more communal setting.

Scribners Lodge

Scribner's Catskill Lodge was founded to welcome a new generation of urban explorers to the beautiful year-round destination of the Catskills. With thoughtful design, friendly service, and delicious food and drinks, the Lodge is the perfect basecamp for your escape to the outdoors. In addition to our 38 guest rooms and suites, we offer a locally-inspired restaurant, Prospect, multiple indoor and outdoor event spaces, and over 20 acres of mountainside to explore. Ski Hunter Mountain right across the street! Gray a local beer at Hunter Mountain Brewery within a short driving distance.

Gather Greene

A nature retreat and luxury event venue in the Hudson Valley. Celebrate an unforgettable outdoor intimate wedding weekend and stay in cozy cabins! A design-forward event venue perched on over a hundred acres with dramatic landscapes, stunning views, and modern amenities, Gather Greene offers guests an unparalleled variety of unique indoor and outdoor experiences to connect with nature and with each other.

More amazing places to elope and stay in the Hudson Valley and the Catskills! Click on the photos to link to these luxury venues in the Catskills.

Catskills Elopement Photographer

After seeing how many beautiful places there are to elope and stay in the Catskills and Hudson Valley, I hope you are feeling inspired to elope!  I would love to help create your dream elopement by providing an elopement package that works for you! I look forward to hearing from you! Find out if we are available for your date!