"Created by pioneering artist and Bard professor Harvey Fite, and founded as a nonprofit by his wife in 1978, Opus 40 is a world-famous artistic environment 63 acres of meadows, forested paths, and bluestone quarries — centering on 6.5 acres of remarkable earthwork sculpture and a handmade artist’s studio and home, also created by Fite — in the heart of the Hudson Valley in Saugerties, NY." This place looks super cool. Haven't been yet but wanna go. This is the closing weekend for the season so if you go check it out, call ahead or check the website to make sure they have tickets available.
About a five minute walk from the Glen Falls House, you'll find the Riedlbauer Resort, another old Catskills classic. They've got a bier garten and a driving range. Could be worth checking out if you like big beers and little balls.
Oh you don't like arboretums? Then you must be pretty bummed about where this whole weekend is taking place. Come on, you like trees! Everybody likes trees. And an arboretum is like a tree museum. But it's outside. It's like... a forest? But also like a park. I'm pretty sure highlighting a lot of non-local species. The thing is, you guys. No one knows EXACTLY what an arboretum is. But people still love them. And that's powerful stuff!
In addition to the two shuffle board courts, we'll have a wide array of lawn games on site. Feel free to come by anytime and get your game on. We'll probably also have some board games. Or maybe even a nice puzzle. Man, I love a puzzle.
The #1 trail in the area according to Alltrails.com. Here's what they say... "The Escarpment Trail is packed with stunning viewpoints of the Kaaterskill Falls and surrounds along the way. The trail is well-maintained, well-marked and easy to follow, with plenty of shade from the trees. Most of the trail is relatively easy; however, hikers wishing to reach the lower falls will have to climb steeply down slippery rocks before arriving at the beautiful waterfalls. This trail begins from the Escarpment Trailhead Parking lot off South Lake Road." So wear some decent shoes and don't be the dork in flip flops.
A longer, but perhaps easier hike to Kaaterskill Falls. 3.7 miles. 255 ft. elevation gain. Here's what Alltrails.com says... "The Kaaterskill Rail Trail to Kaaterskill Falls Trail offers a rewarding hike that combines natural beauty, historical intrigue, and the awe-inspiring sight of one of New York's most famous waterfalls. Whether you're a local or a visitor to the Catskills, this trail provides a memorable outdoor adventure."
Might be a little too steep and aggressive for most. But I've been told a good pair of boots and a willingness to work for it can make this one doable. Plus it takes you to the rock where Rip van Winkle (apparently) fell asleep for 20 years and missed the American Revolution. Just please make sure you don't fall asleep up here and miss the wedding.