If you are a hiking, cyclist or trail running enthusiast, I definitely recommend the trail runs here. Extremely picturesque, quiet, and lots of branches and rocks to jump over if you're excited about nature like I am :). I just participated in their annual "After the leaves fall" half marathon trail run, and it was definitely worth the drive up from NYC and absolutely beautiful with the fall foliage. Only downfall is that there are very limited good hotels in the area, most of them are overpriced and disgusting, so enjoy the trails!! :)
I went up to Lake Minnewaska in early April 2014. There was still a lot of ice on the paths down to the waterfall but as long as you had on good hiking shoes it was fine. The waterfall was beautiful. After the waterfall I did drive up to the top by the lake. Beautiful paths along the lake to walk and hike. The views are amazing. Bring water and food if you want to make a day of it. Picnic on the grounds. Will hopefully get back up there when there's no ice.
This place is lovely in every season. Great walking in the summer, and cross-country skiing in the winter. The woods are gorgeous in the spring when the wild azalea and rhododendron are in bloom, there are wild blueberries in the summer and the autumn leaves are lovely. Try to avoid weekends in the autumn because there are bus-loads of leaf-peepers who just stand around in crowds to admire the colours. If you are energetic the day hike to Lake Awosting is wonderful. The Awosting trail takes you to a crystal clear "sky" lake, fed by rainwater only, nestled in the rocks with a breathtaking view of the Catskills in the distance.
If you like getting outdoors this is a wonderful place to go. It's family oriented with many things to see and nice trails to hike.
Take the time to find and enjoy the waterfalls and the cool rocks along the running water. Hikes range from easy to more strenuous so definitely something for everyone.
Groomed carriage roads for skiing along scenic vistas that match some of the best within 100 miles. For $10 you get all you can eat for trails whether your pleasure be skate skiing or classic. There's rarely a crowd. There's no ski rentals here and no food or water. You need to be self-sufficient. Rent equipment at Rock and Snow in New Paltz if you need it. This is my go-to ski location after the Mohonk Preserve and hotel property.
Great park to hike and experience beautiful nature during any season. Highly recommended.... would love to come back
What a beautiful place to wander and get lost in beauty. There are several waterfalls and swimming holes. Also, when it's the right time of year you can eat wild berries!
Some friends and I love taking a zip car upstate to go hiking in the forest. The trails are so breathtaking, literally and physically. My favorite spot is where the massive waterfall is perfect spot for picnic too.
We love Minnewaska. We go several times a year, in every season. There is a beautiful lake, and great trails.