Minnewaska, translates from two Native American languages to mean "good water." for your timing. The forests of Minnewaska have been intentionally burned by humans for hundreds of years, dating back to the Native Americans. A list of entry fees and other park use fees is available below. Virtual Tours of the New York State Parks. Bring the trail map, a compass, a flashlight and a first aid kit along with you. The gorgeous views from the cliff on top of Millbrook Mountain include the historic Sky Top observation tower and the lush Wallkill Valley below. Due to COVID protocols, the total number of participants for this program is limited to ten individuals. Meet at the Minnewaska Visitor Center. of Environmental Conservation including forests, beaches, trails and more. A well-timed fall visit to Minnewaska may yield sightings of kettles of raptors, which are large congregations of these predacious birds travelling south together. Meet at the Minnewaska Visitor Center. A short walk through the woods takes you to the top of the falls, then a downhill walk on a carriage. Here are some of the best Minnewaska State Park trails for you to enjoy. Most bears will run away when they encounter a person. Like all snakes, they are unlikely to attack unless provoked. Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, will lead this three-and-a-half-mile hike that will follow along the edges of the Peter's Kill, a gently gurgling stream that runs through cool hemlock forests and tropical-feeling rhododendron stands along the Mossy Glen Footpath. Other activities at Minnewaska State Park include boating, horseback riding, scuba-diving, rock-climbing, picnicking and cross-country skiing. Ancient eastern hemlock trees line the edges of this route, which offers expansive views of the steep-sided Palmaghatt Ravine below. Minnewaska was originally built as a resort by Alfred Smiley in the 1870s, complete with two hotels and many amenities. Amazing views. We did the waterfall walk, and then the loop around the lake. Everyone is a Steward: Be a Minnewaska State Park Hero! For more information and to register for programs, please call the Park Preserve Office at 845-255-0752. 1. We'll hike a short distance on the Red Loop and Bullwheel Footpaths to reach the High Peter's Kill Footpath. Minnewaska's striking geological formations also make it a world-class rock climbing site. There are no additional fees for public programs, unless noted otherwise. Mountain laurel bushes, whose gorgeous pink and white flowers are abundant along trails in mid-June are often found in these same forests. But that is part of the wonder of nature. Call or write today at 845-255-0752 or. Share the trail. Please do not harass snakes and always keep your distance and respect any wildlife you may come across. Located in Ulster County, NY Minnewaska State Park Preserve is situated on the dramatic Shawangunk Mountain ridge, which rises more than 2,000 feet above sea level and is surrounded by rugged, rocky terrain. Learn more about our Admission Programs including the Empire Pass. Lichens, ferns and mosses are slow-growing. A 60-foot plunge down Peters Kill creek in Minnewaska State Park. Due to COVID protocols, the total number of participants for this program is limited to twelve individuals. The facilities are simple but clean. You can help to avoid potential contact with bears by carrying-out your empty food and beverage containers. New! Rock Climbing at Minnewaska State Park Preserve was established all the way back in 1935 when the first rock-climbing route was complete. It's a very popular spot for both locals and tourists, so expect a crowd, especially on beautiful summer days. We had a great hike, we saw the water fall and lake. Lake Minnewaska historically supported a population of sphagnum moss that lived underwater. Minnewaska features more than 50 miles of trails and carriageways around the three lakes, scenic mountain views, sheer cliffs and a huge variety of activities. Fire eliminates forest understory plants, such as shrubs and low growing trees, creating a more open forest which is better for hunting and travelling. The park features numerous waterfalls, three crystalline sky lakes, dense hardwood forests, incising sheer cliffs and ledges opening to beautiful views, clear streams cut into valleys, 35 miles of carriage roads and 50 miles of footpaths on which to bike, walk, hike and simply enjoy. Was gorgeous in early October. For more information, please read our Trail Tips! All participants must wear face coverings or keep a minimum six-foot distance away from others who are not part of your immediate household.