Mohonk Preserve

We visited Mohonk Preserve and it was absolutely incredible. There are two ways to enter: through Mohonk Mountain House ($35) or through Mohonk Preserve ($15 for hikers, $20 for bikers, climbers, or horseback riders). We entered via the preserve and took the Duck Pond Trail, but our experience went far beyond that. We passed the beautiful Lake Mohonk, then ventured onto the iconic Labyrinth Trailhead — just follow the red arrows. It was both challenging and fun, with rock scrambles, stone staircases, and narrow caves. At the top, we reached what looks like a castle: the Sky Top Tower, built in 1923 as a memorial to Albert K. Smiley, founder of Mohonk Mountain House. You can climb up to the terrace for a breathtaking 360° view of the Hudson River Valley — simply magical! 🌄 There are two portable restrooms at the top. The entire preserve is spotless and well-marked, offering trails for all skill levels. It’s perfect for an active getaway — whether as a couple, with friends, or family. 🚗 You can reach nearby New Paltz by car, Trailways bus, or taxi. The Ulster County Nature Bus also runs every Saturday from late April to late September during the 2025 season. ✅ Tips: bring water, snacks, light clothing, sturdy shoes, and a spirit of adventure. Highly recommended!

Made it up to the top of Bonticou Crag, and glad I did. There is a short field of substantial boulders you have to get thru on the trail, but the view is worth it. Five stars.

Has a lot of trails, really enjoyed doing the lemon squeezer, the ladders were fun to climb and the views of the Catskills was amazing. The resort itself is pretty but there are parts of the loop where your walking the deck which is a bit awkward, otherwise a great place to hike.

Huge area to explore. Did the south side. Has elevations, water holes, great views on the top of Mohonk Mt. I’d plan around which parking spot to use depending on what you want to do. Can’t wait to go back and explore the north side!

This one of the beautiful places I have been on NY state! Trails are hard but there is also just a nice walking as well around lake. We got lunch option and it was pretty god with lots of options and unlimited. They also have boats and kayaking for extra cost. From 4-5 there is tea with home made cookies😍 I would highly recommend this place!

Lovely trail! A few sections were a bit muddy and sticky, but totally manageable. There’s a charming little rest hut at the top—perfect for a quick break. From there, we took the North Duck Pond Trail back and were treated to some beautiful views along the way. (Bonus: there’s a porta potty at the trailhead!) If a 4-year-old can handle it, you’ve got this too! 😅

One of my favorite places to hike in Ulster County. Scenic and safe well marked trails.

I didn't get to see most of the trails this place has to offer. However the views from where I ended up were spectacular! This is a private preserve with a $15 per person charge,it's absolutely worth it. I plan on going back here again and making a day of it. Once again I was taken away with the views here. I guess this is a very popular spot for rock climbing too.