Helderberg Hilltowns: Berne, Knox, Westerlo & Rensselaerville

The four western-most towns in Albany County are collectively known as the “Helderberg Hilltowns.” Perched atop the Helderberg Escarpment, Berne, Knox, Westerlo, and Rensselaerville are beautiful countryside communities. Venture to the Helderberg Hilltowns to embark on an outdoor adventure, marvel at cascading waterfalls, or for a scenic drive winding through charming rural towns.

Berne, spanning approximately 64 square miles, is in the heart of the Helderberg Hilltowns. The town boasts the highest point in Albany County with West Mountain at 2,160 feet.

Knox is the northern-most Helderberg Hilltown. During the 19th Century, Knox manufactured millions of handmade, basswood pill boxes and is nicknamed "The Pill Box Capital of the World".

Rensselaerville, home to the Huyck Preserve, is in the southwestern corner of Albany County. Stroll down the historic Main Street, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, to see the distinctive Rensselaerville Library and a 19th century grist mill.

Westerlo has the largest population of the four Helderberg Hilltowns. The town recently celebrated 20 years of friendship with its sister city in Westerlo, Belgium!

Top Spots to Visit in the Hilltowns

John Boyd Thacher State Park

Thacher State Park, is situated along the Helderberg Escarpment, one of the richest fossil-bearing formations in the world. Even... More 

WildPlay Elements Parks

Way, way up above your head, there’s an obstacle course where we throw everything at you: log ladders, ziplines, cargo nets, rope... More 

Thompson´s Lake State Park

Thompson's Lake State Park, nestled in the mountains just four miles from the Helderberg Escarpment, is a popular camping ground... More 

Mountain Winds Farms

Mountain Winds Farm’s primary product is maple syrup. Randy, a Master Forest Owner trained at Cornell University, started his... More 

Helderberg Mountain Brewing Company

We are a NY farm licensed brewery located in East Berne. All of our beers are hand crafted in small batches using mostly local NY... More 

Helderberg Hilltowns Assoc.

The Helderberg Hilltowns Association (HHA) consists of neighbors from Berne, Knox, Rensselaerville, and Westerlo, working together... More 

Kuhar Family Farm

Our café menu features our farm raised meat, local veggies, local breads and pastries. More 

Huyck Preserve

Trails are open from dawn to dusk year-round. Admission is free to walk and hike the trails, picnic, fish and boat (non-motorized)... More 

Maple on the Lake

American restaurant on Warner Lake More 

More to Explore in the Hilltowns

Cook Park Colonie

Family-Friendly Fun: 8 Playgrounds in Albany County

Albany County is full of great playgrounds for kids of all ages! Whether you're looking for a quick More

Thacher Park

Five Unique Nature Finds in Albany County

Spring is in the air and summer is just around the corner which means it's the perfect time to get More

Huyck Preserve in Fall

Albany County Day Trip Itinerary: Helderberg Hilltowns

Scoping out a day trip to Albany County? Plan a day exploring the Towns of Berne, Knox, Westerlo, More