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If you’ve always dreamed of wandering through Ireland’s emerald countryside but hopping on a flight isn’t quite in the cards right now, there’s a hidden corner of Upstate New York that delivers many of the same storybook landscapes without the passport.
Tucked into New York’s Northern Catskills, Greene County is known as the “Emerald Isle of the Catskills,” where rolling mountains, mist-covered valleys, cascading waterfalls, and charming small towns have earned comparisons to Ireland for generations.
The nickname comes from the county’s seemingly endless blanket of deep green forests stretching across the Catskill High Peaks. Combined with its long-standing Irish-American roots—especially in villages like East Durham—it feels like one of the closest things to an Irish countryside escape you’ll find this side of the Atlantic.
It’s the perfect under-the-radar getaway for anyone looking to trade the concrete jungle for waterfall hikes, scenic mountain drives, cozy villages, and a taste of Irish culture—all less than three hours from NYC.
Source / East Durham
⛰️ Wander Through New York’s Emerald Mountains
If Ireland’s rolling green countryside is on your travel bucket list, Greene County delivers a similar kind of magic–minus the transatlantic flight.
The biggest draw is its stunning landscape.
Dense forests cloak the mountains in vibrant shades of green, waterfalls tumble over ancient cliffs, and panoramic overlooks reveal wave after wave of rolling Catskill peaks that feel surprisingly reminiscent of Ireland’s famous countryside.
Spend the day exploring the Catskill Forest Preserve, where moss-covered trails, towering hardwoods, and peaceful mountain streams create the lush scenery that earned the region its “Emerald Isle” nickname.
Source / Catskill Center
For even more breathtaking scenery, don’t miss:
Kaaterskill Falls: New York’s tallest two-tiered waterfall plunges 260 feet through a dramatic forested gorge and remains one of the state’s most iconic natural landmarks
North-South Lake: Hike to Inspiration Point or Sunset Rock for sweeping views over the Catskill Mountains, where endless layers of emerald peaks stretch toward the horizon
Mountain Top Arboretum: Wander nearly 200 acres of native meadows, spruce forests, wetlands, and peaceful walking trails in the highest public garden in New York State
Hudson River Skywalk & Ramshorn-Livingston Sanctuary: Take in panoramic Hudson Valley views before exploring one of the Northeast’s largest freshwater tidal wetlands
Visit on a misty morning and it’s easy to see why Greene County has long been compared to Ireland.
Shutterstock / Corey Seamer
🍀 Experience One Of America’s Most Irish Destinations
Greene County isn’t just called the Emerald Isle because of its scenery.
For generations, Irish immigrants and Irish-American families from New York City escaped here each summer, especially to East Durham, transforming the small mountain town into one of America’s best-known Irish cultural destinations.
Today, that heritage is still woven throughout the county, from traditional music and Irish dancing to family-run resorts, welcoming pubs, and annual festivals celebrating Irish culture. Don’t miss:
The Shamrock House in East Durham, a beloved gathering place for authentic Irish food, music, and hospitality
Blackthorne Resort, known for lively entertainment, Irish-themed events, and Catskills charm
Gavin’s Resort & Country Inn, a longtime family-owned retreat offering classic Catskills vacations with Irish roots
Michael J. Quill Irish Cultural & Sports Centre, home to a massive brick map of Ireland’s 32 counties and a reconstructed 200-year-old thatched-roof Irish cottage
Throughout East Durham you’ll spot shamrocks painted on the roads, Irish flags flying proudly, and reminders of the community’s deep cultural heritage around nearly every corner.
Source / The Shamrock House
🏘️ Explore Charming Mountain Villages
Beyond its breathtaking scenery, Greene County is filled with small towns that invite you to slow down.
Browse local boutiques in Tannersville, sip craft beer after a day on the trails in Hunter, wander Windham’s walkable Main Street, or spend an afternoon exploring Catskill’s art galleries, cafés, and historic waterfront.
Every village offers its own unique slice of mountain charm—and plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.
📍 Trip Planning at a Glance
Best Time to Visit: June through August for warm weather lakeside recreation and outdoor dining or September through mid-October for vibrant fall foliage, comfortable hiking weather, and local harvest events
Location: Greene County, NY
Drive Time: ~2.5 hours from Midtown Manhattan
Perfect For: Weekend road trips, waterfall chasing, scenic hikes, mountain drives, and experiencing one of New York’s most unique Irish-American communities