KTD Buddhist Monastery
Woodstock
While most people associate Woodstock with the boutiques and restaurants that line Tinker Street, don’t miss the scenic drive up the mountain to KTD (Karma Triyana Dharmachakra). This is the North American seat of the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa (there have been only 17 such individuals in 900 years), head of the Karma Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. People from all over the world attend the workshops and retreats at this rare jewel in the Catskills; choices include Himalayan Meditation and Yoga, Teen & Family Meditation, and others.
The trailhead and parking area for Overlook Mountain are directly across the road from the monastery, so you can combine a spiritual experience with an afternoon hike offering stunning views of the Hudson Valley!
Open year-round with free one-hour tours offered Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m., rain or shine. Afterward, there’s an optional one-hour introduction to meditation. Reservations aren’t necessary, but call in advance to make sure the monastery isn’t closed to visitors due to a special event.
335 Meads Mountain Road; 845.679.5906; www.kagyu.org
Jeanie Bean & Family
Clinton Corners
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This spacious, family-owned eatery/country store with a devoted local following is chock-full of English and Irish food products. So after you’ve finished a freshly prepared hearty breakfast or lunch, don’t forget to pick up some marmite. An unusual oasis off the main drag, but worth a detour! Open daily, year-round, 7 a.m.–4 p.m.
2411 Salt Point Turnpike; 845.266.0720
Cohotate Preserve
Athens
This 52-acre preserve in Greene County offers a lovely one- to two-hour stroll, hike, or snowshoe excursion, combining forest and wetlands with stunning views along the banks of the Hudson. You’ll see the remains of an icehouse foundation at the edge of the River and possibly catch a glimpse of a bald eagle. There’s also an unusual view of The Rip Van Winkle Bridge. Open daily, year-round, from dawn to dusk. Free. There’s an entrance to the Hudson River shoreline trail from the parking lot on Route 385.
450 Route 385; 518.622.3620; www.gcswcd.com
Woodstock resident Joanne Michaels is the author of 10 books, including The Hudson Valley & Catskills Mountains; Let’s Take the Kids; Hudson River Journey; Hudson River Towns; and Hudson River Valley Farms.
