Town: Bethel
Artist: Kim Simons
About: The White Lake Homes Dove, located in Bethel, New York, is a symbol of the community’s enduring charm and natural beauty. As part of the Dove Trail, this dove was created by a local artist to represent the peaceful and welcoming atmosphere of White Lake. Positioned near White Lake Homes, the dove reflects the area’s rich history and its connection to the serene landscapes that make this part of the Catskills so special.
Address: 4180 West Shore
Bethel, NY 12749

Location: White Lake Homes
White Lake, a hamlet within the town of Bethel, New York, is known for its stunning lake views and tranquil setting in the heart of the Catskills. This area has long been a popular destination for both residents and visitors seeking a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. The community around White Lake is characterized by its close-knit atmosphere, where neighbors come together to enjoy the beauty and serenity of the region.
The White Lake Homes Dove is a significant addition to this idyllic setting. As part of the Dove Trail, this public art piece was crafted by a local artist to celebrate the unique qualities that make White Lake a cherished part of Bethel. The dove symbolizes the harmony between the community and its natural surroundings, reflecting the area’s commitment to preserving its scenic beauty and peaceful way of life.
Positioned near White Lake Homes, the dove serves as a reminder of the area’s rich history and its ongoing appeal as a haven for those looking to connect with nature. It stands as a testament to the community’s pride in its heritage and its dedication to fostering a welcoming environment for all who visit or live in White Lake.
For more information about White Lake and its history, you can explore the area’s background here.
Artist: Kim Simons
Kim Simons is an artist, a multi-award winning, master level, cake and food artist. Kim has recently been featured on the Food Network’s, “Cake Wars: Christmas”, “Cake Wars”, “Duff Till Dawn”, “Outrageous Wedding Cakes” and “Sugar Dome”. Kim also has appeared on Telemundo’s, “Buenos Dias Nueva York”, where she presented one of her fabulous cakes to a live television audience to celebrate their first show, also performing and demoing live, creating huge food art pieces in Busch Gardens VA, Seaworld TX, Ohio, Tennessee and NY City. Kim, has been recognized in “Dessert Professional” magazine as one of the Top Ten Cake Artists in North America for 2013. Her cakes have also been featured in the “ICES” magazine, “Cake Masters” magazine, the “American Cake Decorating” magazine, “Today’s Woman” magazine, and “Cake Design France” magazine. Kim is not a traditional cake artist. She enjoys creating sculpturally unique and beautiful cakes, mastery of painting with edible colors, and the ability to sculpt incredibly realistic nature scenes. Kim has a reputation for creating amazingly realistic looking animals out of sugar and has earned the respect of her peers. In addition to her work in cakes and food, Kim has an extensive following in the painting and sculpturing worlds. She has commissioned works for the private, public and government sectors over the years. The public can also see her work in the War Memorial located in Monticello, NY and her Centennial Monument created exclusively for the town of Liberty, NY. It can be seen outside the Liberty Public Library.
Places to Eat
- The Fat Lady Café – A popular lakeside café offering a diverse menu of American and international dishes, with stunning views of White Lake and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
- The Local Table and Tap – A gastropub known for its focus on local ingredients, offering a menu of American comfort food along with a great selection of craft beers in a casual setting.
- Benji & Jake’s – A wood-fired pizza restaurant offering artisan pizzas, fresh salads, and a variety of other Italian-inspired dishes, with outdoor seating overlooking the lake.
- Sorella Pizzeria & Restaurant – A cozy spot offering traditional Italian fare, including pasta, pizza, and hearty entrees, perfect for a family meal or a casual night out.
Places to Stay
- The Dancing Cat Saloon & Inn – A unique inn combined with a saloon and music venue, offering rustic accommodations with a lively and fun atmosphere.
- Inn at Lake Joseph – A luxurious inn located nearby, offering elegant rooms, lake access, and a peaceful setting, ideal for a relaxing getaway.
- Kauneonga Lake View House – A charming bed and breakfast offering comfortable rooms and beautiful views of Kauneonga Lake, perfect for a serene stay.
- The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark – Located in Monticello, this family-friendly resort offers modern accommodations and a large indoor waterpark for a fun and exciting stay.
Places to Explore
- White Lake – The centerpiece of the area, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports, as well as lakeside dining and entertainment.
- Bethel Woods Center for the Arts – A nearby cultural venue offering concerts, art exhibits, and a museum dedicated to the history of the 1969 Woodstock festival, located just a short drive away.
- Kauneonga Lake – Adjacent to White Lake, this smaller lake offers additional opportunities for water activities and is surrounded by charming eateries and shops.
- Mongaup Valley Wildlife Management Area – A nearby natural area offering hiking, bird watching, and wildlife observation, perfect for nature lovers seeking to explore the scenic beauty of the Catskills.
Dove photos by Paul Henshaw