Situated on the dramatic Shawangunk Mountain Ridge, Minnewaska State Park Preserve in Gardiner, NY, has more than 22,000 acres of gorgeous, sprawling mountain landscapes. Three crystalline lakes, multiple waterfalls, awe-inspiring cliffs and dense hardwood forests make this one of the Hudson Valley’s most beloved outdoor destinations.
The Park Preserve opens daily at 9:00 am and closing times vary throughout the year. The fee for parking at Minnewaska is $10 per car.
Located just outside of New Paltz, NY., the park contains 50 miles of hiking trails; Two of the most popular trails can be accessed through the main parking lot and lead to Minnewaska Lake and Awosting Falls.
Hiking isn’t the only thing you can enjoy at the park: there are also options for biking, swimming, picnicking, skiing, snowshoeing, horseback riding and even scuba diving.
The Sam’s Point Area, located on the highest section of the Shawangunk Mountains, is the most southerly section of Minnewaska State Park Preserve. The area comprises approximately 5,000 acres, and contains a globally rare community of high altitude pitch pine barrens. ice cave crevices that you can explore; cliffs and numerous scenic vistas. Verkeerder Kill Falls, is a spectacular 187 foot high waterfall located on private property, so visitors are asked to remain on the trail.
Rock Climbing and Bouldering in Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Rock climbing is permitted in the Peter’s Kill Area of Minnewaska State Park Preserve. Here, the quartz conglomerate cliffs span approximately half a mile, offering single pitch climbs at various levels of difficulty. This area offers some of the best bouldering in the northeast. This area is home to mixed hardwood forests, pitch pine barrens, wetlands, vernal pools, rock slabs, the Peter’s Kill stream, several waterfalls and the cliffs of the High Peter’s Kill escarpment. Hiking, picnicking and snowshoeing are all permitted activities in this area, too.
Camping in Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Additionally, the park features the Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground with are 24 drive-in spots (one vehicle per site) and 26 walk-in spots. Camping is permitted from mid-May to November.
Take Amtrak to Minnewaska State Park
Experience this unforgettable attraction via Amtrak to the Poughkeepsie Station in the Hudson Valley—Don’t forget to use the See New York and Save 15% discount! Minnewaska State Park Preserve is 20 miles away from the train station.
From the Poughkeepsie Station, get taken to your reserved NYTRAIN Enterprise Rent-a-Car. Click here to reserve your car or call the Poughkeepsie office today at (845) 485-2222.
