Schoharie County: Waterfalls, Hiking Trails and Museums

An 80-foot terraced waterfall, a summit view over the Schoharie Valley, and museums dedicated to regional history, art and geology offer different reasons to visit Schoharie County. At Mine Kill Falls, a scenic hiking trail leads from the parking lot to the foot of the waterfall. There are also birdwatching routes and seasonal offerings centered on fruit and cider.

Waterfalls, Hiking Trails and Birdwatching

The Long Path enters Schoharie County near the Blenheim-Gilboa Visitor’s Center and continues through Eminence State Forest, past Looking Glass Pond and on to Vroman’s Nose. Vroman’s Nose overlooks the Schoharie Valley; the flat rock surface at the summit is known as the “dance floor.” Check trail conditions before setting out on a hike.

The Schoharie County Eagle Trail is an accessible birdwatching route through the center of the county, focusing on the local eagle population. At the Landis Arboretum, you can hike, stroll, cross-country ski and bike. This offers a choice of outdoor activities alongside dedicated birdwatching.

History, Art and Museums

The Old Stone Fort Museum Complex presents three centuries of rural life in New York State across 25 acres and a total of eight historic and exhibition buildings. The Old Stone Fort was built in 1772 as a Reformed church for the High Dutch (German) community. It was fortified in 1777 during the American Revolution and attacked on October 17, 1780. The 1743 Palatine House is designed as a living history museum.

The Schoharie Valley Railroad Museum includes an original 1875 railroad station and six other original railroad buildings. The collection also includes a restored 1891 passenger car and a wooden 1917 caboose. Both the buildings and the two preserved railcars offer tangible insights into railroad history.

At the Iroquois Museum, exhibits cover topics ranging from the ancestors of the Iroquois to archaeological displays and historical depictions of hunting, warfare, chiefdoms, games, longhouse life, clans, cultivated plants and politics. The museum also features an extensive collection of modern Iroquois art.

The Gilboa Museum showcases an exceptional collection of Devonian fossils, including some of the oldest known plant fossils on Earth. The Cave House Museum of Mining & Geology explores the past, present and future of geological resources in an interactive way. The Schoharie County Quilt Barn Trail, meanwhile, takes drivers through the county to large quilt blocks featuring meaningful patterns and historical content.

Fruit and Cider

On an orchard, Scrumpy Ewe Cider operates a cidery with a tasting room attached to the production facility. Opening hours are seasonal; check them before your visit. Terrace Mountain Orchard also offers seasonal attractions: apples, cider, donuts and opportunities to pick your own. Check opening dates and hours in advance.

Discover more destinations: Cobleskill, Schoharie, Richmondville, Sharon Springs, Broome, Chenango County, Niagara County, Cattaraugus County.

Return to the regional travel overview: New York.