Perched high on the Shawangunk Ridge in Ulster County, Minnewaska State Park Preserve sprawls across nearly 24,000 acres of dramatic cliff faces, dense hardwood forests, and crystal-clear sky lakes. Established in 1987, the park protects one of the most striking landscapes in the Northeast — a rugged plateau where white quartz conglomerate cliffs drop sharply into valleys below.

The star attractions are Lake Minnewaska and Lake Awosting, glacial sky lakes with impossibly clear water nestled among the ridgeline. The park’s extensive trail network covers over 50 miles, offering everything from easy carriage road walks to challenging scrambles along cliff edges with sweeping views of the Hudson Valley. Rock climbing draws enthusiasts to the Peterskill and Awosting areas, while mountain biking is permitted on designated carriage roads. In winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing take over the same trails.

Swimming is available at Lake Minnewaska during summer months with lifeguard supervision — a refreshing reward after a hot-weather hike. The park connects to the broader Shawangunk Ridge trail system, including neighboring Sam’s Point Area and Mohonk Preserve, making multi-day exploration possible.

Fall foliage season, typically mid-October, transforms the ridge into a patchwork of orange and crimson that rivals anywhere in New England. Spring brings mountain laurel blooms along the cliff edges in June. Summer weekends fill up fast — arrive early, as parking lots regularly reach capacity by mid-morning.

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