On a brisk, sunny Saturday morning, still a few weeks away from peak fall color, we went up to ride the carriage roads and trails of the Mohonk Preserve and the Minnewaska State Park. It’s a year round destination for hikers, rock climbers, and cyclists, but fall adds that east coast color to the palette. These aren't paint by number kind of views. Though you could join the plein air painting classes with their easels we clocked on the way in.
“The Gunks” is a favorite gravel destination for the team that we try to fit in during a break in cyclocross season. The route begins a couple of miles out of New Paltz on a gravel path along the foothills and through the Testimonial Gateway, eventually winding up, sometimes steeply through the trees. The trails are rocky at first but mellow out as the elevation increases. About halfway in we reached Awosting Falls. A modest arrangement of rocks, water, trees deciduous and evergreen, bit of sky, but somehow perfect; the sum equals more than… very east coast. Next a gradual but steady twisting climb up across the dramatic Shawangunk Ridge and then there it is: the view best seen IRL because seeing it appear around the corner is a key part of the experience.
This year the trail around Lake Awosting has reopened, and now with a smooth carriage road instead of chonky singletrack. High mountain lake vibes, but with the oxygen to enjoy it. And finally, the smooth gradual descent back down into the trees.
Check out our post from Fall 2025 where you can find the route and park access information:
Our Favorite Rides: The Shawangunks
On November 7, the Mohonk Preserve hosts Shawangunk Grit, a fundraiser supporting the preserves. There are two distance options and timed segments, and the park opens up access to otherwise private and restricted areas, including the highest point in the park, the ‘million dollar view.’ Not to be missed.
