Nestled within the Shawangunk Mountains in upstate New York, Minnewaska State Park is a 24,000-acre nature preserve, offering dramatic vistas, crystal-clear “sky lakes” and opportunities for various outdoor recreational activities.
Minnewaska was originally a part of Albert and Alfred Smiley’s Mohonk Mountain House property. The family’s “Cliff House” was built in 1879, overlooking Lake Minnewaska. Over the years the property changed hands and was in limbo over potential commercial development until 1987 when New York state bought the land and designated it as a state park preserve. Today, Minnewaska is managed by the Palisades Interstate Park Commission and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. Besides its striking natural beauty, the park is known for its unique ecological and geographical features, including the Ellenville Fault Ice Caves.
The park is divided into two sections: the main area which is located near Kerhonkson, New York, and the Sam’s Point Area which is located farther west near Cragsmoor, New York. Visitors can explore over 50 miles of well-maintained trails, including 35 miles of carriage roads. These carriage roads make hiking more accessible for visitors of all ages and skill levels. The park offers a wide variety of scenery, including numerous waterfalls, lakes and cliff-edge views. Stroll the Lake Minnewaska Carriage Road Loop for breathtaking glimpses of the lake or enjoy a short hike to Awosting Falls, a stunning 60-foot waterfall which was recently featured in Season 2 of the thriller TV-series, Severance. If you’re craving a more challenging hike, try the popular Gertrude’s Nose Trail, which features awe-inspiring views of the Shawangunks. Venture out to the Ice Caves Trail, which flaunts extraordinary cave scenery, and after an afternoon of exploring, be sure to cool down at Minnewaska Lake Beach!
Minnewaska State Park Preserve is open year-round. During the summer months, the park is generally open from sunrise to sunset.
To enter the preserve you must pay a $10 fee per vehicle. Season passes are available. Parking is permitted only in designated lots. On weekends and holidays during peak season, lots can fill up quickly, so visitors are encouraged to arrive early. For the Sam’s Point Area only, advance reservations are required on weekends and holidays. Dogs are welcome and are required to be on a leash. There are no trash cans at this park! Practice carry in, carry out and leave no trace. Swimming is only permitted in designated areas.
Main Park Area: 5281 Route 44-55, Kerhonkson
Sam’s Point Area: 400 Sam’s Point Rd, Cragsmoor
To explore this beautiful nature preserve, take Amtrak to the Poughkeepsie train station. The main section of the park is located roughly 30 minutes from the station. Don’t forget to use the New York By Rail 15% discount!
