Deciding where to go and what to do this summer can be an
arduous task. Keeping everyone happy and
entertained can feel more like a full time job rather than the vacation you
were looking forward to. Each year I
find myself glued to the computer for hours on end searching for that “perfect”
family getaway; that classic combination of relaxation and exhilaration. Normally I would consider a shore vacation,
but let’s be honest, with shark attacks on the rise the last place I want to be
is sitting on the beach wondering if my sons are going to be sampled as an
afternoon snack. Still, if you’re
looking to interject a little adventure into your vacation, hiking the parks
and preserves of Ulster County New York will definitely speak to your inner
explorer.
Sam’s Point
Preserve
Why You Should Explore: Encompassing 5,400 acres, Sam’s Point Preserve provides the best examples of the
globally rare Ridge-Top Dwarf Pines as well as nearly 40 rare plant and animal
species; including bobcats, fishers, timber rattle snakes and spotted
salamanders. Sam’s Point Preserve also
offers a unique opportunity to hike through the greatest open fault in the
United States (known geologically as the Ellenville Fault and locally as the
ice cave); capturing snow and ice in the winter and preserving some of it as
late as August!
Minnewaska State Park
Why You Should Explore: Situated on the dramatic Shawangunk Mountain ridge, which rises more
than 2,000 feet above sea level, Minnewaska State Park offers hikers a rugged
and rocky terrain that encompasses numerous waterfalls, lakes, dense hardwood
forests, and incising sheer cliffs; perfect for canyoning, mountaineering, and
scrambling. Not sure where to begin? Mountain Skills Climbing Guides provides
hikers and climbers of all ability levels with guided excursions. Now that’s an adventure!
Mohonk Preserve
Why You Should Explore: Offering educational programs for children and adults as well as a
children’s corner and interactive exhibits in the Visitors Center, Mohonk
Preserve promotes an understanding of and excitement about nature. Situated on 8,000 acres of mountain ridges,
forests, fields, streams, ponds, and other unique and beautiful places, this
preserve affords hikers with phenomenal views and trails that are suitable for
novice and advanced hikers alike.
After
your hike, kick back and take advantage of the full resort experience at
Honor’s Haven Resort & Spa.
Featuring 232 rooms and suites, spa services, golf, indoor and outdoor
pools, tennis, and basketball courts as well as tai chi, yoga, and Zumba
classes, Honor’s Haven is the ideal escape for those looking for a getaway
that’s close to New York City, but provides an experience that feels worlds
away.
Labels: family getaways near nyc, getaways near nyc for couples, hiking near nyc, Honor's Haven Resort, Hudson Valley hiking, Ice Caves, Minnewaska State Park, Mohonk Preserve, resorts near nyc, Sam's Point Preserve
Deciding where to go and what to do this summer can be an
arduous task. Keeping everyone happy and
entertained can feel more like a full time job rather than the vacation you
were looking forward to. Each year I
find myself glued to the computer for hours on end searching for that “perfect”
family getaway; that classic combination of relaxation and exhilaration. Normally I would consider a shore vacation,
but let’s be honest, with shark attacks on the rise the last place I want to be
is sitting on the beach wondering if my sons are going to be sampled as an
afternoon snack. Still, if you’re
looking to interject a little adventure into your vacation, hiking the parks
and preserves of Ulster County New York will definitely speak to your inner
explorer.
