The best walks and hikes around Rosendale

Embark on the Bonticou Crag and Table Rocks Loop for a varied and engaging hike through Mohonk Preserve. This moderate route spans 5.6 miles (8.9 km) and involves a total elevation gain of 796 feet (243 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 36 minutes to complete. You will encounter the exhilarating rock scramble up Bonticou Crag, where you use both hands and feet to ascend. From the summit, you are rewarded with expansive views of the Wallkill Valley and the Catskill Mountains. Further along, the unique fissured formations of Table Rocks offer distinct photographic opportunities and additional overlooks.

To plan your visit, be aware that the trail is located within the Mohonk Preserve, which requires a $15 per hiker day-use fee. It is highly recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can become limited. If you prefer to avoid the challenging rock scramble, an alternative trail is available that still leads to the viewpoint at the top of the Crag. This allows you to tailor your experience to your comfort level.

This loop offers a great way to explore the preserve's unique landscape, showcasing its distinct geological features. The combination of a challenging scramble and scenic overlooks makes it a notable option for hikers seeking both adventure and views. The trail's varied terrain, from the crag to the fissured rocks, highlights the natural diversity of the region.

Embark on the Bonticou Crag and Table Rocks Loop, an easy hiking route covering 3.2 miles (5.1 km) with an elevation gain of 378 feet (115 metres). This trail offers a diverse experience, from wooded paths to intensely rocky sections, including a notable rock scramble. You can expect to complete the loop in about 1 hour and 26 minutes, enjoying the varied terrain and the unique geological formations along the way.

To access this route, you will need to visit the Mohonk Preserve, which typically requires a day-use fee. The Spring Farm Trailhead provides convenient parking to begin your adventure. While the overall trail is easy, be aware that the rock scramble up Bonticou Crag is challenging and should be avoided if conditions are wet or icy; however, bypass options are available if you prefer to skip this section.

The Bonticou Crag and Table Rocks Loop is renowned for its distinctive features within the Mohonk Preserve. From the summit of Bonticou Crag, you are rewarded with expansive vistas across the Hudson Valley and the distant Catskill Mountains. Further along the route, Table Rocks presents fascinating fissured rock formations, offering another impressive viewpoint and a unique geological highlight of the area.

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