GO ADVENTURE WITH RANDY SUN
You’ve probably heard of the Catskills…and the Adirondacks, but have you heard of the Shawangunk Mountains?
Hiking the Gunks! Under 2 hours away from NYC, the area around Woodstock and New Paltz, NY has some amazing drive worthy hikes and cute downtowns with all your post hiking meal needs. We are going back this weekend but I wanted to put together a list before we go check out even more there.
The hiking in and around these towns is in an area called the Mohonk Preserve which is right next to Minnewaska State Park and features the Shawangunk Mountains (AKA The Gunks) a top climbing destination. We are not at the repelling with ropes stage just yet (if I can’t bring the dogs, I don’t want it!), but hiking the Gunks and in the Mohonk Preserve on your own two feet is just as much of a treat!
This area is right next to the Catskills so while staying here it is very possible to incorporate some of the Catskill hikes into your trip.
Here are some of the, in my opinion, best hikes (and places to eat!) that I’ve found in the area so far.
◇Gertrude’s Nose in Minnewaska State Park 6.9 miles, ~1300 feet elevation gain, loop!
◇Bonticou Crag and Table Rocks Loop 5 miles, 1000 ft elevation gain (yup that’s it!)
◇Black Dome in Catskills 6.5 miles, 2200 ft elevation gain
◇Let’s eat! Now, just like I research and carefully choose my hikes – I do the same for my food! So trust that these few places below that I’m recommending are A++
◇Cucina in Woodstock: lots of local, organic, ingredients, fresh pasta..what else could you want?!
◇Karma Road, New Paltz: The stop on your way in to town for a hike or to hit on your way home for those car snacks! Muffins, cookies, sandwiches, lattes. All the good snacks.
Also, on your way in or out of New Paltz there is also the Village Grind! They were so kind there, I was debating about whether I wanted iced or hot coffee (it is fall – temps fluctuate!) and the guy gave me one of each to try. He probably just wanted to move the line along. They’ve got egg sandwiches and other grab and go items and snacks.
Couple tips! Get to these hikes early. They are popular and parking can be limited. Also, some are not dog friendly so check AllTrails app for the recommendations. The dogs did Gertrude’s Nose with us but Bonticou Crag would have been tough with them as it was crowded and lots of cliffs at the top!
Well, that’s about all folks. I’d love to show you more after the trip there this weekend. Hoping to do a couple more new hikes in the area! Talk soon!! Happy fall!
By Kristen
Read more at EARLY BIRD ON THE TRAIL