Catskill Kayaking at Dutchman’s Landing

Launch straight from Dutchman’s Landing at Catskill Point Park and slip into the calm, protected water of Catskill Creek. Sheltered from wind and away from Hudson River chop, this route is beginner-friendly and perfect for relaxed paddles with light, slow-moving boat traffic.

Why this route

• Calm water: Wind-protected creek—great for first-timers.
• Easy access: Direct launch from Dutchman’s Landing.
• Flexible timing: 60–90 minutes out-and-back on the creek.

Wildlife to watch for

Paddle slowly and you may spot osprey, blue heron, green heron, kingfisher, turtles, marsh wildflowers, and the occasional eagle.

Optional detours

RamsHorn–Livingston Audubon Sanctuary (via Catskill Creek): From just inside the creek mouth (on the left), head up into the sanctuary for quieter water and more wildlife viewing. Add 45–60 minutes if you include this detour.

Rams Horn via Hudson (conditions permitting): Proceed south past the Catskill Creek mouth and follow the west shore of the Hudson ~½ mile to the mouth of Rams Horn Creek—a larger tidal-marsh tributary into the sanctuary. You’ll know you’re near the mouth when you see a small white boathouse across the river on the east shore. Rams Horn meanders ~1½ miles through exceptional marsh scenery.
Note: several side channels dead-end and can be confusing; unless you’re confident with navigation. ( guided trips are an option )

Hudson — Rick’s Point Riverfront Park

Easy dock launch with free parking close by—simple carry from car to water. Facilities include restrooms, picnic tables, and shaded spots.

Know before you go

• The Hudson is tidal; currents shift with time of day (~every 6 hours).
• Main shipping channel runs just off the launch; large vessels do not stop—give wide berth.
• Wind exposure can create chop; mornings/evenings usually calmer.
• Watch for submerged logs, strong currents, and changing tides.

Route ideas

Beginner: Stay near shore for an easy, scenic out-and-back along the waterfront.

Experienced: Cross the channel from the launch, round the south end of Middle Ground Flats Island, then head north between the island and Athens. Expect small motorboats and occasional chop.

Coxsackie — Riverside Park

Easy Hudson River access with a small ramp and shoreline launch. Parking is close to the water. Park amenities include restrooms, a large pavilion, picnic space, and shaded areas.

Know before you go

• The Hudson here is tidal—current changes direction about every 6 hours.
• Wind exposure can create chop; mornings/evenings are usually calmer.
• Main shipping channel is on the east (far) side; large vessels use it—give wide berth.

Route tip

Stay on the Coxsackie shoreline and head north (toward Albany). You’ll pass Coxsackie Island and then Rattlesnake Island; keeping to the **left** of these islands keeps paddlers out of the channel.

Athens — NYS Boat Launch

Launch from Athens directly into the Hudson River, paddling alongside Middle Ground Flats Island between Athens and the city of Hudson. Or take the calmer route into Murderers Creek, which extends from the launch to the base of Sleepy Hollow Dam (a little over half a mile). This is the state boat launch, not the kayak launch in the village of Athens.

What to expect

• Main river channel: Runs behind Middle Ground Flats Island, where very large vessels travel.
• Quiet waters: Beginners can stick to shoreline and backwater areas for calmer paddling.
• Experienced paddlers: May round either end of Middle Ground Flats Island, where the main channel is. Or, head south toward the Rip Van Winkle Bridge.

Access and amenities

There is ample parking at the launch, and this spot provides scenic views of the historic riverfront. Athens is one of the Hudson Valley’s oldest river towns, making this launch both convenient and historic.

Germantown — Ernest R. Lasher Memorial Park

Concrete boat ramp and shoreline launch onto the Hudson River with close parking. Quiet access point with no restroom facilities.

Know before you go

• The Hudson here is tidal—currents change direction every 6 hours.
• Afternoons can be windy and choppy; mornings and evenings are calmer.
• Watch for large vessels in the main channel and give them space.

Route tip

Great for paddling along the Germantown shoreline. Confident paddlers may cross the channel to circumnavigate the island opposite the park when conditions allow.