What Are the Catskill Mountains Like in the Summer?

The historic Catskill Mountains, called the Blue Mountains by locals, are located in New York state northwest of New York City. They provide visitors with beautiful scenery and many attractions during the summer months.

Weather

During summer months the Catskills only receive three and four inches of rain monthly, until August, when the rainfall varies. July is the hottest month where temperatures are consistently over 80 degrees F; the hottest week is typically the third week of July.

Art & Culture

The summer months are packed full of cultural events, including music festivals, ethnic celebrations and a Fourth of July celebration complete with a fireworks display.

Water Fun

Many waterways in the Catskills offer swimming, canoeing, kayaking and fishing. Included are the Beaverkill, Willowemoc, Neversink and Delaware Rivers. Numerous marinas host sailboats.

Trails & Trains

The Catskills offer trails for hiking and biking including organized group hikes in the Catskill Outdoor Education Center. For those that are not up for exertion, Catskill Mountain Railroad and Delaware & Ulster Rail offer scenic train rides all summer.

Wildlife

Wildlife that is abundant in the summer is great blue herons, vultures, falcons, porcupines, butterflies, deer, minks and ermines.

References

• Catskill Region: Summer Sails
• The Catskill Mountain Weather Page
• Catskill Mountain Foundation: Returning Wildlife

Resources

• Online Guide to the Catskill Mountains
• Catskill Mountain Railroad
• Backpacker Magazine: Catskill Mountains