The best walks and hikes around Rosendale

The Bonticou Crag and Table Rocks Loop offers a truly engaging hiking experience, blending varied terrain with thrilling challenges. You'll navigate through wooded sections, over gravel paths, and into intensely rocky areas, culminating in the famous rock scramble up Bonticou Crag. From the summit, you're treated to sweeping views across the Hudson Valley and the Catskill Mountains, before continuing to the unique fissured rock formations of Table Rocks. This moderate 5.6-mile (8.9 km) route, with 796 feet (243 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 36 minutes.

Before you head out, be aware that a day-use fee is required for entry into the Mohonk Preserve. The rock scramble up Bonticou Crag is genuinely challenging, involving Class 2/3 climbing, and is not recommended for dogs or very small children; however, bypass options are available if you prefer to skip this section. Plan to arrive early, especially on busy days, to ensure a parking spot and a more peaceful hike.

This trail stands out as one of the Hudson Valley's most spectacular natural places, primarily due to the exhilarating rock scramble and the distinctive geological features at Table Rocks. It's a fantastic choice if you're seeking a hike that combines physical exertion with incredible panoramic viewpoints and unique rock formations, making it a memorable adventure for experienced hikers.

The Bonticou Crag and Table Rocks Loop offers a dynamic hiking experience, blending serene wooded paths with dramatic geological features. You'll traverse varied terrain, from gravel roads to grassy meadows, before encountering the distinctive rock formations of Bonticou Crag and Table Rocks. The route provides impressive panoramic views of the Hudson Valley and the Catskill Mountains, making it a visually rewarding outing.

To access this trail, head to the Spring Farm Trailhead within the Mohonk Preserve, where parking is available. Be aware that the Preserve typically charges a day-use fee. If you plan to attempt the challenging rock scramble on Bonticou Crag, it's crucial to avoid wet or icy conditions for safety. This trail is generally well-marked, but keeping an eye on blazes is always a good idea.

This 3.2-mile (5.1 km) loop, with an easy difficulty rating and 378 feet (115 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 26 minutes. It's a fantastic option if you're seeking a relatively short hike that still delivers significant scenic payoff and an optional adventurous element. The unique fissured rocks at Table Rocks are a geological highlight not to be missed.

Prepare for a demanding hike on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, a difficult route stretching 21.9 miles (35.2 km). This journey involves an elevation gain of 589 feet (180 metres) and typically takes around 9 hours and 3 minutes to complete. You will experience a diverse landscape, moving through dense woods, across open fields, and alongside active farmland. A major highlight is the Rosendale Trestle, which provides expansive views of the Hudson Valley and Rondout Creek from 150 feet up.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail features a well-maintained stone-dust surface, with some paved sections as it passes through towns. This is a multi-use path, so you will share it with cyclists and equestrians; remember to yield to horses. The route is clearly marked with excellent signage and mile markers, making navigation straightforward from start to finish. Consider starting early to make the most of the long duration.

This historic railway corridor winds through Ulster County, New York, offering a glimpse into the region's past. The trail's path allows you to appreciate the picturesque Shawangunk Ridge and the Wallkill River as you progress. It serves as a significant recreational artery, connecting various communities and natural areas along its extensive length.

Explore the easy 0.6-mile Widow Jane Mine and Snyder Estate Trail, a historic site with unique underground mine features and natural scenery