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Centennial Site
Overlook Mountain
Woodstock, N.Y.The Catskills region is a land of crystal-clear splashing brooks, primitive wilderness, balsam fragrant mountains and sweet air freshened by high hills and the vastness of space. There are quaint towns and villages; fine accommodations; great food; and plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, skiing, shopping or just relaxing under the shade of a tree on a summer's day.
On July 1, 1883, Theodore Roosevelt undertook a difficult climb up the Catskill's 3,200-foot Overlook Mountain. If you wish to climb the mountain yourself, take the New York State Thruway to Exit 19 and follow signs to Route 28. Take Route 28 west to Route 375 to Woodstock. From the village green in Woodstock, take Rock City Road to Meads Mountain Road. Proceed 2 miles, you'll find a monastery on the left and parking on the right.
Follow the path from the parking lot 2.4 miles uphill all the way to the Old Hotel Stone ruins, another quarter mile to the Watch Tower (with an expansive view) or, to the right of the ruins, to an open vista point. There are also trails that go further on if you wish to continue hiking.