Lake Minnewaska is a unique and picturesque 36-acre lake atop the Shawangunk Mountain ridge in New York’s Catskills region. Surrounded by cliff walls and held in place by bedrock and a small dam, this high-altitude lake offers a serene view for nature enthusiasts. The lake, originally known as Coxing Pond, was renamed and slightly altered with the dam’s construction to support two nearby resorts. Despite these changes, the lake has retained its pristine beauty and remains a vital part of the Minnewaska State Park Preserve.
Visitors to Lake Minnewaska can enjoy various recreational activities, including kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. The lake’s no-motors policy ensures a peaceful, quiet paddling and rowing environment. A designated swimming area is available for park visitors, while members of a local open water swimming club can access a larger swimming area after passing a water skills test. Scuba diving is also popular here, with clear waters providing visibility up to 70 feet and offering views of unique underwater features, such as cliff walls and rare salamander species.
The surrounding Minnewaska State Park Preserve spans 23,000 acres, featuring a variety of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing. The park is connected to the nearby Mohonk Preserve by old carriage paths originally built for resort guests. These paths, along with additional footpaths and rock climbing areas, offer numerous opportunities for outdoor exploration. The preserve is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, bears, and an endangered peregrine falcon pair. Birdwatchers and nature observers can enjoy the Minnewaska Bird Conservation Area and the Northern Shawangunk Mountains Important Bird Area.
Historic sites within the preserve, such as the ruins of the Cliff House and Wildmere Resorts, add to the park’s charm. These resorts, established by the Smiley brothers in the late 19th century, once hosted over 600 guests and played a crucial role in the region’s history. Today, the preserve focuses on maintaining the natural landscape and providing visitors with an immersive nature experience.
While there is no camping or lodging directly within the park, nearby towns such as New Paltz, Poughkeepsie, and Newburgh offer various accommodations, including hotels, bed & breakfasts, and guest cottages. The preserve is a day-use facility, making it a perfect destination for a day outing or a weekend getaway. With its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and range of outdoor activities, Lake Minnewaska and the surrounding preserve provide a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, just a short drive from New York City.