Minnewaska State Park Preserve

I recently spent a day at Minnewaska State Park, and wow, what an experience! The place is like a hidden treasure trove of natural beauty. From the moment I stepped onto the trails, I was surrounded by stunning scenery that seemed to get better with every turn. The trails are fantastic. I loved how each path had its own unique character and offered incredible views. It felt like I was discovering a new secret every few steps. Wildlife is everywhere! I saw deer, birds, and even some smaller critters. It was like the park was alive and thriving. The encounters were a beautiful reminder of how important it is to preserve these natural spaces. And the landmarks—wow. The lake was very peaceful. Each spot felt like a postcard come to life. I found myself just standing there, soaking it in, don’t Judge me, thanks Minnewaska State Park is an absolute must-visit. Whether you're a nature lover, an avid hiker, or just looking for a serene escape, this park has it all. I can’t recommend it enough—get out there and see it for yourself! You won’t be disappointed.

Visiting Minnewaska State Park continues to prove itself as a great destination to get with nature. The various trails within the park offer options such as hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, swimming, kayaking, or canoeing. You can bring your own or rent. This park is popular and attracts people from all over. I remember when this park was privately owned and swimming in areas other than the designated area currently permitted. Many great memories were created at this park and it is such a unique spot that should be visited at least once. If I could give it 7, 8, 9, or even 10 stars I would.

This one has been on the list for a long time. This didn't disappoint on a beautiful warm day. There were a lot of people near the falls and a fair amount on the trails away from the falls. That's probably the only detractor from this one. Always neat getting to see the Catskills in the distance. This park is good for any length of hike. I had planned to do almost 14 miles, but being the first warm weather hike, the heat beat on us. So we ended shortening it to under 10 miles. You could shorten it even more.

So beautiful! Not many people for a weekday but I can see it being busy on a weekend. Everything is so organized and it was very easy to get to the parking lot and see the trails. Just so you know it is 10 dollars for a car to enter the park. Would recommend the visitor center for any first timers all the information was very helpful. Good maps and open graveled trails. Will definitely go again soon!

A really wonderful and gorgeous state park! Visited Minnewaska State Park and New Paltz for the first time during a Monday, and absolutely fell in love with this place. There are so many trails, and I plan to come back next summer to try the others! This first time, though, my partner and I hiked the Upper Awosting carriage road trail to see the Rainbow Falls and lake. It was about a 7 mile loop, and we took an hour break when we reached the falls. Barely saw any people on a Monday, which was ideal coming from NYC, lol! The Rainbow Falls weren’t super dramatic in July, but still refreshing and a relaxing vibe. The “carriage routes” are very wide and covered in gravel, shaded by trees, which made for a pleasant hike even during a heat wave! Bring water, take breaks. $10 entry/parking fee per vehicle. Highly recommend! Will definitely be back!