This small Catskills town that’s known for its ski mountain, Hunter Mountain, is a four-seasons destination in the Northern Catskills. Photo by Moriah Wolfe at Scribner’s Catskill Lodge; see all our area lodging picks on the Escape Club App.

EB’s Top 5 in Hunter:

• Breakfast at Fellow Mountain Cafe: While here, be sure to grab a loaf of focaccia – loaded with olive oil and flaky salt – and some harissa chickpea salad for an on-the-go lunch.

• Skiing at Hunter Mountain: From late November-early April, experienced skiers and snowboarders should take advantage of Hunter West’s advanced terrain.

• Craft beers and mountain views at the Westkill Brewing Tap Room: In the winter, opt for a pint of Fresh Coat – a rich and flavorful oatmeal stout. In the warmer months, try Slide Mountain – a German helles lager that pays homage to the Catskills.

• Scenic skyrides to Hunter Mountain’s summit: Instead of riding the chair lift down the mountain, hop off at the summit and take a leisurely hike to the base.

• Drinks and Dinner at Prospect: Stop into Scribner’s onsite restaurant for happy hour to indulge in craft cocktails on the deck (or at the bar) before settling at a table for the rest of the evening.

Best known for its namesake ski mountain, Hunter, NY wears its winter reputation well — but this Northern Catskills town has just as much to offer when the snow melts. Think forest hikes to cliffside views, cold lagers on a brewery lawn, and dinner by the fire at one of the region’s most stylish lodges.

Whether you’re strapping on skis for Hunter’s black-diamond terrain or catching golden hour over cocktails at Scribner’s Prospect, Hunter strikes a balance between outdoorsy grit and low-key luxury. Year-round, it’s a place where big adventure meets small-town charm — and where a loaf of focaccia and a summit fire tower can both be trip highlights.

Read on for our area guide — including the best places to get outdoors, where to eat and drink — plus the best places to stay in Hunter, NY.

What to Do in Hunter, NY: Hiking, Antiquing, and Independent Film Screenings

Hunter Mountain from a bird’s eye view. Photo: Moriah Wolfe

In the winter, Hunter Mountain is the main event — 320 acres of skiable terrain with runs for every level, including the expert-only slopes on Hunter West’s steep face. But as soon as the snow starts to melt, the mountain transforms into a four-season playground. Start your day at Fellow Mountain Café , where strong coffee, flaky focaccia, and a harissa chickpea salad make the perfect trail snack. Then head to North-South Lake, a local favorite for hiking, swimming, and paddling. For a moderate trek with big payoff, follow Mary’s Glen Trail to Artist’s Rock, Sunset Rock, and Newman’s Ledge — a six-mile loop of sweeping Catskill views. Want something shorter? The Escarpment Trail connects to those same scenic lookouts in just two miles.

For an in-between challenge, hike the Fire Tower Trail — a five-mile out-and-back climb to the highest fire tower in New York State. On warmer days, take the scenic skyride to the summit and hike down for a leisurely descent through the trees. (Tip: bring trail spikes in early spring and late fall — elevation keeps the trails icy longer than you’d expect.)

After the hike, reward yourself at West Kill Brewing’s taproom, where the beer is brewed with Catskills mountain water and the views are just as crisp. Grab a pint of Fresh Coat (a winter oatmeal stout) or Slide Mountain (a golden, German-style lager) and hang out on the lawn — especially if there’s a food pop-up on site. Then head over to Tannersville for an afternoon of vintage shopping and indie boutiques. Browse antiques at Rust, Diamonds & More, dig through the racks at Tannersville Antiques & Artisan Center, or stop by  Sundry. for a perfectly edited selection of home goods and décor.

Wrap up the day with an indie film screening or live performance at Catskill Mountain Foundation, tucked into a former schoolhouse. It’s the kind of small-town cultural gem that makes the Catskills feel more lived-in than getaway.

Where to Eat + Drink: The Best Bars and Restaurants in Hunter, NY

The region’s best breakfast can be found at Fellow Cafe, nestled right on Hunter’s Main Street. Photo: Moriah Wolfe

The town of Hunter offers some of the most memorable meals in the Catskills — with views to match. Start a day with a breakfast sandwich and latte at Fellow Mountain Café, a laid-back spot where locals linger over laptops and hikers fuel up before hitting the trail. Come evening, head uphill to Scribner’s Lodge, where Prospect’s wood-paneled dining room and oversized windows frame golden-hour mountain views. The menu leans seasonal and locally inspired — think handmade pasta, wood-fired vegetables, and natural wines.

Feeling adventurous (and hungry)? The nearby town of Tannersville has some great options too; check the Escape Brooklyn Guide to Tannersville for even more memorable meals in the Catskills.