The name "Copake" comes from the Indian word meaning "Snake Pond." The Town of Copake contains the hamlets of Copake, Copake Falls, West Copake, Craryville and Copake Lake. Originally called the "Town of Granger," it was split up in 1824 and the western half became the Town of Taghkanic and the eastern part became the Town of Copake.

The area was inhabited by Mohican Indians, who found its many lakes, streams, woodlands and lush countryside a fine place to establish their camps. Their arrowheads, spears and axes can still occasionally be found in the Copake area. White settlers, mainly Dutch and German, began to come in numbers around 1750. Copake's reputation as a pleasing resort area is due to the many camps and facilities within town lines. Part of Catamount Ski Area is within the town of Copake. Catamount includes 1000 vertical feet of skiing terrain and uses snow-making equipment for dependable coverage. The Undermountain Golf Course is a semi-private executive course in Copake. Soma Wellness Center is also in town.

Copake’s county, the Columbia County, is known for its historical resources. The settling of America is preserved in the many museums and landmark sites for touring. The Norman Rockwell Museum is a glimpse of America through the famous painter’s eyes. There is a veritable treasure trove of history for exploring, from a Persian palace to a federal mansion, from a colonial farmstead to a headless horseman.

In addition, Copake has been sought out by metropolitan New York residents as a location for second homes, bringing in a weekend and summer population that has added another dimension to the town. Copake is just two hours away from New York City.

Celebrating over 175 years the town retains its rural character, despite the loss of many farms in recent years (some dairy farms are still functioning), and goes forward into a new century as a great place to live. The town carries a quaint motto, “Where neighbors help neighbors and strangers are welcomed as friends.” The town and community works to maintain the rural character and scenic beauty of Copake by protecting all natural resources. Groundwater and open space are the two most important resources to the community. The town is focused on development, providing conveniences and jobs, keeping within the original town character; existing buildings are used whenever possible and large chains are avoided. Zoning, including scenic overlay zones, are the strategies for realizing protection, and residents are ensured a voice in planning and decision-making.

Taconic State Park is the 1569 acre park nestled amidst the cool, blue waters of Lake Taghkanic; lush, green forestland and rolling hills, the park has facilities for all outdoor enthusiasts. Special features of the park include a tent and small trailer camping area, a cabin and cottage area, two bathing beaches, secluded picnic areas, boat rentals, playground areas, a ball field, and hiking trails. Ore Pit Pond is 40 feet deep and clear to the bottom and the Bash Bish Falls are spectacular.

Lake Taghkanic is open year round for day use. Overnight camping is available mid May through the end of October. Winter activities include ice fishing, cross country skiing, snowmobiling and skating. Deer hunting by bow only, is allowed during deer season. Copake Lake, one of the largest recreational lakes in Columbia County, is a beautiful crystal clear lake that is perfect for swimming, boating, fishing and water-skiing during the hot summer months. Black bass fishing peaks during the summer and fall and Copake Lake is among the most outstanding largemouth bass waters in New York State. It is also possible to visit the old iron foundry, built in 1845.The building stands as a museum and contains all the original implements of the time. The buildings that once housed the iron workers, have now been converted into Camping Cabins.

The Roeliff Jansen Historical Society’s museum of local history is located in the Old Copake Falls Church. A new exhibit is presented each summer. There is also the Berkshire Theatre Festival every summer and year round theatre productions by the Copake Theatre Company.