Catskill Mountains

Photo Trekker Episode 103 - The Catskill Mountains

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• published: 04 May 2010
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First occupied by native Americans more than 5000 years ago, The Catskill mountains an extension of the application mountains all the way into Upstate New York. Exploring the haunting lands of Rip Van Winkle will leave you lost in time. This is Americas First Wilderness Join me as I venture into The Catskill Mountains As daylight breaks, I am reminded of the Buddhist monks that have sought these serene mountains for years as a place of meditation. And then I grab my gear and head to the Trails. Kaaterskill Clove is home to a series of captivating waterfalls. The first of these, only .2 miles in, is Bastion Falls. Rising a total of 80 feet, this falls is but an enchanting prelude to the dramatic cascade that lies deeper within the forested Catskills. The Trail to Kaaterskill falls is littered with these small pockets of photographic perfection. Accentuating the Golden Green hues of the canopy above, the waters reflection at nearby streams are not to be overlooked. As I break through this rocky terrain, I am preparing myself to witness a miracle of nature for the first time. These thundering dual Cascades crash over 260 feet and have inspired some of the most prominent books, essays, poems and paintings of the early 19th century. These Falls have been an enduring icon of the Catskills for centuries. Standing atop these dangerous cliffs as the winds rush through this natural ampatheter, its easy to see how hundreds have tragically died hear in an attempt to do just what I am doing and experience this unique wonder first hand. Scaling these cliffs are not to be taken lightly, and should be done very carefully. The rout to the top is treacherous, and grueling, but once there You stand in awe, at the origin of this powerful waterfall, plunging over 170 feet straight down. And marvel at the Celtic symbols carved into the rock face, that seem to whisper to the spiritual nature of these falls. Plateau Mountain, This summit is one of the highest in the Catskills at 3840 feet. The trail ascends over 1 mile over through blanketed forests, and Lush Fern beds. The view at the western edge of the plateau is overwhelming. As the Sun slowly retreats the colors become more vibrant than ever. I had no choice but to strap on my wide-angle lens and go for the panorama.I just love these twilight colors, so rich and vibrant, and easily flexible when shooting in raw. Plattekill Falls, As I wakeup to the warm glow of the campfire, the moon slowly fades with the night. Journeying into this immense wilderness, I cant help fell like Sam Gribley, from My Side of the Mountain, surviving the elements and becoming one with the Catskill Mountains.This rushing cascade is over 70 feet tall with walls lined with the most vibrant array of moss. I plunge my tripod right into the water and set for a long exposure. Perfect. Climbing around for a different view is a must. And Well worth it. And sometimes nature provides a little wind, adding even more movement to the image.Further down Platte Clove is a dangerous and challenging section of jagged rock carved out by these ageless waters. Scaling the walls are exhilarating, each step has to be made very carefully, especially with 40 pounds on your back. This cove is a rare find, Remote and stunning, this waterfall easily makes my list of favorites. These falls have a character all their own. AmazingAnd at the edge is yet another falls, with very steep cliffs, that if you anchor your self just right you can set up your shot and get something entirely unique. An image that will live as a forever as a constant reminder of risk and perseverance. The Catskill Mountains are Americas first wilderness. Inspiring artists, writers, monks and conservationists, this land is rich in history and steeped in controversy. From the looming threat of our never ending need for energy, we just might destroy the fragile ecosystem that make all of this wilderness possible. Spending a lot of my childhood just outside New York City I have always wondered what mysteries and adventures lies in those mountains, The mountains of Rip Van winkle, Thomas Cole, and millions of others that have been drawn to the Catskills.