Dover Stone Church Blue Trail

This trail is renowned for its extraordinary geological feature: a natural rock formation resembling a Gothic archway, often called the "Stone Church." Inside this cave-like formation, a stunning 30-foot waterfall cascades into a pool, creating a truly unique and awe-inspiring environment. The acoustics within the hollow amplify the sounds of the flowing water, adding to its distinctive character.

The main trail to the Stone Church is generally considered easy, often described as an easy stroll. It's a relatively short, out-and-back hike, typically around 1.2 to 1.5 miles round-trip, taking about an hour to complete. While the path is mostly straightforward, you'll encounter a mix of paved sections, gravel paths, natural trails, steps, and some rocky areas. Be aware that areas near the cave entrance can be wet and slippery due to the Stone Church Brook.

You'll experience varied terrain, starting with flat sections lined with maple trees, transitioning to a semi-paved trail alongside the Stone Church Brook. The route includes crossing wooden footbridges and passing through a picturesque field with a pond. Closer to the cave, the trail becomes more natural with steps and rocky areas, some of which may be wet. Stepping stones are often in place to help navigate damp spots.

Yes, the Dover Stone Church Blue Trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to ensure their safety and the enjoyment of other hikers, especially in crowded areas or near the water.

Parking is available near the trailhead in Dover Plains, New York. Specific parking areas are designated for visitors to the Dover Stone Church Preserve. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up quickly due to the trail's popularity.

Currently, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Dover Stone Church Preserve or hike the Blue Trail. The preserve is open to the public for enjoyment.

The trail is beautiful year-round. Spring offers lush greenery and strong waterfall flow, while autumn provides stunning fall foliage. Summer is popular for its warm weather, and winter can offer a magical, icy landscape, though conditions can be slippery. For fewer crowds and comfortable hiking, late spring and early fall are often ideal.

Beyond the main attraction, the trail offers picturesque views of the Stone Church Brook, which you'll follow for much of the hike. You'll cross charming wooden footbridges and pass through a scenic field with a pond. The highlight, of course, is The Stone Church itself, with its impressive waterfall inside the cave.

Yes, the Dover Stone Church Blue Trail is part of the larger Dover Stone Church Preserve, which encompasses over four miles of hiking trails. While the main path to the Stone Church is distinct, the route also passes through sections of trails marked with (blue + yellow blazes), (yellow blazes), (blue blazes), and the Stone Church path itself.

Yes, the main trail to the Stone Church is considered very family-friendly due to its easy difficulty and relatively short length. The unique cave and waterfall are often a big hit with children. Just be mindful of slippery sections near the cave entrance and ensure children are supervised, especially around the water.

Given the trail's easy nature, you won't need extensive gear. We recommend comfortable walking shoes with good grip, as some areas can be wet and rocky. Bring water, especially on warmer days, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery. A light jacket might be useful, as the cave can feel cooler. If hiking in winter, consider microspikes for icy conditions.