Pack a cooler and set off for a family adventure of park and playground hopping up the Byway. Keep an eye out for these special roadside attractions: some are right out in the open, others require a bit of looking. If you head from east to west, this could take the better part of a day, with plenty of time for some carefree romping and a leisurely picnic. Happy Hunting!
Boiceville: Just before reaching the hamlet, look up a small hill on your right to see through the trees seven sculptures and totem poles by French artist Emile Brunel. These towering concrete works on a Native American theme must be viewed from road. This special place is listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places.
Mt. Tremper: Catskill Park Interpretive Center. Take a walk on the half-mile gravel loop trail. See if you can spot the family burial ground just off the path.
Phoenicia: Find the Shandaken Eagle at the main entrance to the hamlet. It used to ‘fly’ at Grand Central Terminal in New York City. . . Then head into Phoenicia to find the statue of Davy Crockett, the Catskills’ adopted mountain man, on the Boardwalk.
Big Indian: A giant statue of Winnisook, the “big Indian” of Big Indian, welcomes you to the community’s park and playground right beside the Byway.
Pine Hill: Follow signs to Belleayre Beach and see if you can spot evidence of beaver activity in the stream beneath the covered bridge at the entrance. Park near the bath house and take a walk around the lake, where you may see the beavers swimming.
Arkville: Delaware & Ulster Rail Road yard. Can you find the wooden caboose that is under restoration? (Another caboose houses a snack bar.)
Margaretville: Find the big wooden bear just a few steps off the Byway. (Hint: He’s carrying an American flag . . .)
Andes: Ballantine Park just up Tremperskill Road off Lower Main Street, was the site of an early mill. Find the stone foundation of the mill as you meander through this stream-side oasis.