Are you looking for a day trip that will take you to some of the most beautiful and diverse natural landscapes in Ulster County, New York? Then you should consider visiting Lippman and Minnewaska parks, two amazing places that are close to each other and offer plenty of options for hiking, biking, swimming, and more. Here’s a guide on how to have a fun and memorable day at these parks.
Lippman Park
Lippman Park is a 115.3-acre park that has eight-and-a-half miles of trails for different levels of skill and experience. The park is run by the Renegades Bike Club, which keeps the trails in good condition and adds new features for bikers. The trails are well signposted and well mapped, and range from smooth and easy to rough and challenging. You can also admire the views of the Rondout Reservoir and the forested hills from various spots along the trails.
One of the best trails for beginners or families is the Tadpole Trail, which goes around a small lake near the parking lot. This trail is flat and simple, and ideal for a relaxing walk. You can also see some animals, such as frogs, turtles, ducks, and birds, near the lake. The Tadpole Trail takes about 45 minutes to finish at a moderate pace.
Another trail that you should try is the Thunder Trail, which is a moderate loop that goes up to a ridge overlooking the park. This trail has some steep parts and rocky sections, but also some fun elements like bridges, berms, and rollers. The Thunder Trail gives you some great views of the valley and the reservoir, especially during sunrise or sunset. The Thunder Trail takes about an hour and a half to complete.
If you want more adventure, you can also check out some of the other trails in the park, such as the Mine Hole Trail, which goes by an old mine shaft; the Stony Kill Trail, which follows a creek with several waterfalls; or the Roller Coaster Trail, which has some exciting drops and turns. You can also mix and match different trails to create your own loop or challenge yourself with different levels of difficulty.
Lippman Park is open all year from dawn to dusk. There is no entry fee or parking fee, but donations are welcome to help support the trails. There are no restrooms or water fountains in the park, so make sure to bring your own supplies. Dogs are allowed on leash in the park.
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Minnewaska State Park Preserve is a 22,275-acre preserve that lies on the Shawangunk Mountain ridge. The park has many waterfalls, three sky lakes, dense hardwood forests, sheer cliffs and ledges opening to beautiful views, clear streams cut into valleys, 35 miles of carriage roads and 50 miles of footpaths. You can enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, picnicking, scuba-diving, rock-climbing, bouldering, boating and marveling at the scenery in this park.
One of the most popular attractions in Minnewaska State Park Preserve is Lake Minnewaska, a clear lake that mirrors the sky and the surrounding cliffs. You can walk around the lake on a 1.9-mile carriage road loop that is easy and flat. This loop offers amazing views of the lake and the mountains from different angles. You can also swim in the lake at designated areas during summer months.
Another must-see spot in Minnewaska State Park Preserve is Gertrude’s Nose Trail, a 6.7-mile loop that travels through dense wooded areas to stunning views while trekking along various cliff edges and rock formations. This trail is moderate to difficult, and requires some rock scrambling and steep descents. However, the reward is worth it: you’ll get to see some of the most spectacular vistas in the park, such as Gertrude’s Nose, Patterson’s Pellet, Millbrook Mountain, and Hamilton Point.
If you’re looking for more adventure, you can also explore some of the other trails in Minnewaska State Park Preserve, such as the Awosting Falls Trail, which leads to a 60-foot waterfall; the Castle Point Trail, which offers panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains; the Rainbow Falls Trail, which passes by a cascading waterfall and a cave; or the Sam’s Point Trail, which takes you to the highest point in the park and a rare dwarf pine forest.
Minnewaska State Park Preserve is open year-round from 9 a.m. to dusk. There is an entrance fee of $10 per vehicle, or $5 for seniors and free for children under 12. There are restrooms, water fountains, picnic areas, and a visitor center in the park. Dogs are allowed on leash in the park, except on the swimming beach and the cross-country ski trails.
Conclusion
Lippman and Minnewaska parks are two gems in Ulster County that offer a range of outdoor activities and scenic views for visitors of all ages and abilities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll, a challenging hike, or a thrilling bike ride, you’ll find something to suit your taste and mood in these parks. So pack your bags, grab your friends or family, and head out to these parks for a day trip you won’t forget!.