The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Ulster County

The River-to-Ridge Trail in New Paltz offers a delightful journey through varied landscapes, from flat, stone-dust paths winding past working farmlands to rolling hills that lead to stunning views of the Shawangunk Ridge. You'll cross small streams and experience a mix of open fields and forested areas, with the highlight being the expansive River to Ridge Trail View of the Shawgunks. This moderate 5.2-mile (8.4 km) hike, with a gentle 270 feet (82 metres) of elevation gain, provides a scenic and engaging experience for about 2 hours and 13 minutes.

When planning your visit, you'll find the trail is very accessible, with well-maintained paths and amenities like parking and water bottle filling stations. The lower sections are quite family-friendly and dog-friendly, while the upper parts offer a bit more challenge with their rolling hills. It's a multi-use trail, so expect to share it with cyclists and runners. For the best conditions and vibrant scenery, especially the changing leaves, consider hiking in the fall.

What makes this trail truly special is its role as a vital connector, linking downtown New Paltz directly to the extensive trail networks of the Mohonk Preserve and Minnewaska State Park Preserve. This means you can easily extend your adventure onto over 90 miles of carriage roads and trails. It also connects to the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, offering even more opportunities for exploration and making it one of the best trails for accessing the region's natural beauty.

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.

The Ice Caves Trail offers a fascinating journey through a unique geological landscape in Minnewaska State Park Preserve. You'll start on a wide gravel path with expansive views from Sam's Point Overlook before diving into the rugged, rocky, and often wet terrain of the actual ice caves. These distinctive quartz formations create a microclimate where ice can persist well into warmer months, making for a truly memorable experience. Expect some narrow passages and short ladders within the caves, adding an adventurous twist to this easy 1.9-mile (3.1 km) hike.

Planning your visit requires a bit of foresight, as reservations are mandatory for entry to the Sam's Point Area on weekends and holidays. This helps manage visitor numbers and preserve the delicate environment. The trail is generally accessible, but sturdy footwear is essential for navigating the rugged sections within the caves. It's a relatively short hike, taking about 56 minutes to complete with 340 feet (104 metres) of elevation gain, making it a great option for a half-day outing.

What sets this trail apart are the unique geological formations themselves; these aren't typical caves but rather a collection of quartz cliffs and crevices that trap cold air, allowing ice to linger. This natural phenomenon is a rare sight, especially in New York. The trail's blend of open vistas and intriguing natural features makes it a popular choice for those seeking a distinctive outdoor experience without an overly strenuous climb.

The Upper Awosting and Hamilton Point Loop offers a journey through the diverse ecosystems of Minnewaska State Park Preserve, winding through dense hardwood forests, pitch pine barrens, and blueberry thickets. You'll traverse mostly well-maintained carriage roads, but be prepared for some gradual climbs and steep descents as the trail leads you to spectacular viewpoints like the Hamilton Point Overlook, where you can gaze across the Shawangunk Ridge and spot Lake Minnewaska below. It's a rewarding experience for hikers seeking varied scenery and a good workout.

Planning your visit to this moderate 11.1-mile (17.8 km) loop, which typically takes around 4 hours and 54 minutes to complete with 1003 feet (306 metres) of elevation gain, means considering the park's popularity. Minnewaska State Park Preserve often has parking fees, and lots can fill up fast, especially on pleasant days, so an early start is advisable. Always confirm the latest dog policies for the specific route, as regulations can vary within the park.

This trail is a prime example of the stunning ridgetop views and ecological richness found in the Shawangunk Mountains. The use of historic carriage roads provides a unique blend of accessibility and engaging terrain, making it a notable route within the preserve. Beyond the Hamilton Point Overlook, you might also encounter views of Lake Awosting and the impressive cliffs of Litchfield Ledge, showcasing the dramatic beauty of this New York landscape.

If you're looking for a rewarding hike with incredible scenery, the Eagle Cliff and Mohonk Lake Trail is a solid choice. This moderate 5.0-mile (8.1 km) route, with 482 feet (147 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 13 minutes to complete. You'll traverse varied terrain, from carriage roads offering sweeping views of Mohonk Lake and the Shawangunk Ridge to wooded footpaths, providing a diverse and engaging experience for hikers of all levels.

Accessing the trail requires a bit of planning, as it's located on the private Mohonk Mountain House property. You'll need to purchase a hiking pass ahead of time. Day-use parking is usually at the Gatehouse, which adds a 2.2-mile walk to reach the main trailheads near the Mountain House itself. Be sure to check for any seasonal advisories and carry enough water for your journey.

The Mohonk Mountain House property is a National Historic Landmark, renowned for its extensive network of 85 miles of trails. Beyond the Eagle Cliff area, you can find everything from easy carriage roads to challenging rock scrambles like the famous Lemon Squeeze. The area is celebrated for its astounding geology, varied forest habitats, and unique perspective of the Mohonk property, offering panoramic views that can stretch across several states on a clear day.