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Mon 03 Apr
School Break Family Program: Learn How the Mountains were made at Minnewaska
Monday, April 3, 2023 01:30 PM - 04:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Join Minnewaska's education staff to learn how powerful forces of nature shaped the landscape of the Shawanagunk Ridge. We'll begin with a discussion about the geological periods that created our common rocks, including shale, limestone, and the iconic Shawangunk quartz conglomerate. We'll learn how to identify clues left over from the glaciers that shaped this landscape, creating the dramatic white cliffs and sky lakes found here. We will then go for a hike around Lake Minnewaska, investigating the rock faces for glacial evidence, and take a walk out to Patterson's Pellet, a huge boulder that the glacier placed right on the cliff's edge! Complete with a scavenger hunt, you won't want to miss this fun, educational experience. The approximate total distance for this walk is four miles. This program is recommended for families with children between the ages of seven to twelve years old, but interested children of any age who are able to participate are welcome. All children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian at least 18 years of age. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Tue 04 Apr
School Break Family Hike: High Peter’s Kill to Awosting Falls Loop at Minnewaska
Tuesday, April 4, 2023 09:30 AM - 01:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Come explore the High Peter's Kill Footpath with Laura Conner, Environmental Educator and Josh Grosse, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps Environmental Educator, on this approximately five-mile hike. We'll start by walking on the High Peter's Kill Footpath, which features a variety of terrain along a cliff escarpment with numerous, scenic viewpoints. For our return trip, we'll walk along the easy-going Awosting Falls Carriage Road, past the 65 foot tall Awosting Falls. This hike does include rocky, narrow sections of trail that may be challenging for some. Participants should bring enough water and food for the outing and wear proper hiking shoes. Meet in the Lower Parking Area. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Wed 05 Apr
School Break Family Program: Micro-forest Madness at Minnewaska
Wednesday, April 5, 2023 01:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Let's show some love to our fungi friends by unearthing the mysterious and incredible truth about their role in the ecosystem. Did you know that fungi help trees talk to each other? Or that a species of fungus inside our Park Preserve could help fight against cancer? Both of these things can be attributed to the mini but mighty members of our forests: mushrooms! We'll learn about the difference between a producer, a consumer, and a decomposer, and how food webs are established and maintained. We'll take a hike into the woods to check out mushroom habitats, play a game of nutrient tag, and more. This program is recommended for families with children between the ages of six and twelve years old, but interested children of any age who are able to participate are welcome. All children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian at least 18 years of age. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Thu 06 Apr
School Break Family Program: Invasive Species Education at Minnewaska
Thursday, April 6, 2023 01:30 PM - 04:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Come join Park Educators to learn what invasive species are and why they are of such concern to us. You'll learn how to identify invasive species of plants and insects, find out where they've come from, and see how different native species are being affected. In particular, we'll discuss the hemlock woolly adelgid, an invasive insect which has had a big effect on the towering hemlock trees in the Park Preserve. Other species we'll learn about include wineberry, emerald ash borer, colt's foot, Japanese barberry and others. Unfortunately, our wonderful forests are under attack, with many native species being threatened by unwelcome invaders. The elimination of one species puts the entire ecosystem of Minnewaska at risk. However, all hope is not lost! Join this program to become a "Hemlock Hero" and help "stop the spread" of invasive species. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Fri 07 Apr
Birding at the Gardiner Library
Friday, April 7, 2023 08:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Are you interested in birds or birdwatching? Join Nick Martin, Park Preserve Educator, for bird walks starting at the Gardiner Library, every Friday during April. During this program, we will take an approximately one mile walk on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and wander through Majestic Park, which can be muddy and wet, especially after a rainfall. Participants are encouraged to wear waterproof boots or shoes, bring binoculars, and a birding field guide, or field guide installed into a smart device. Interested participants are welcome to attend one or all Friday programs. The total number of participants for this program is limited to fifteen individuals. Meet at the Gardiner Library, in the Lower Parking Area. No pre-registration is required. For more information, please contact the Gardiner Library directly at 845-255-1255 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov.
Sat 08 Apr
School Break Family Program: Wildlife Mythbusters at Minnewaska
Saturday, April 8, 2023 09:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
In this program, we will talk about how important it is to not judge a book by its cover, even when it comes to plants and animals. Snakes, coyotes, and spiders are just a few examples of animals that many people see as bad, scary, or evil. On the other hand, deer, birds, and bamboo are noted for their beauty and grace. Are either of these assumptions true? Our day will begin in the Nature Center, where we'll talk about some common misconceptions, match the species with its characteristics, and discuss the positive impacts that even the scariest animals can bring to the natural world. Later, we will take a hike up the Lake Minnewaska Carriage Road to the old Cliff House location, where we will play interactive games to change the way we think about these animals and plants. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sun 09 Apr
Hike around Lake Minnewaska and along the Cliff Edge Beacon Hill Loop
Sunday, April 9, 2023 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for a three-mile hike along the Lake Minnewaska Carriage Road, Beacon Hill Footpath, and Beacon Hill Carriage Road. We'll walk the picturesque route around the Lake from west to east, stopping along the way for all the scenic vistas. Then, we'll hike the Beacon Hill Footpath, which follows along the top edge of an east-facing escarpment and offers beautiful views of the Rondout and Wallkill Valleys below and the Catskill Mountains to the north. The carriage roads are relatively easy walking; however, the footpath does include some hills and tricky footing. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Tue 11 Apr
Early Morning Birders at Minnewaska
Tuesday, April 11, 2023 08:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Designed for both birding enthusiasts and those just looking to learn the basics, this weekly series will offer outings led by Nick Martin, Park Preserve Educator, or an experienced birding volunteer. Participants should bring binoculars, water, and wear hiking shoes or boots. Outing destinations will be determined the day of the program. Poor weather conditions will trigger a program cancellation. Participants will meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. Participants MUST arrive prior to the start of the program. The Park Preserve gates will be locked at 8:00 am. Late arrivals will NOT be allowed in the Park Preserve. The total number of participants for this program is limited to twenty-five individuals. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. For questions, please call 845-255-0752 or email. This program is set up on a first-come, first-served basis.
Fri 14 Apr
Birding at the Gardiner Library
Friday, April 14, 2023 08:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Are you interested in birds or birdwatching? Join Nick Martin, Park Preserve Educator, for bird walks starting at the Gardiner Library, every Friday during April. During this program, we will take an approximately one mile walk on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and wander through Majestic Park, which can be muddy and wet, especially after a rainfall. Participants are encouraged to wear waterproof boots or shoes, bring binoculars, and a birding field guide, or field guide installed into a smart device. Interested participants are welcome to attend one or all Friday programs. The total number of participants for this program is limited to fifteen individuals. Meet at the Gardiner Library, in the Lower Parking Area. No pre-registration is required. For more information, please contact the Gardiner Library directly at 845-255-1255 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov.
Sat 15 Apr
Lower Awosting, Rainbow Falls, and Blueberry Run Footpath Loop Hike
Saturday, April 15, 2023 09:30 AM - 02:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Join Nick Martin, Park Preserve Educator, for an approximately seven-mile hike towards Lake Awosting on a combination of carriage roads and footpaths. Starting from the Lower Parking Area, participants will hike on Lower Awosting Carriage Road until we reach the intersection with Rainbow Falls Footpath. From here, we'll hike the entirety of this interesting and moderately challenging footpath, past Rainbow Falls and to its conclusion at the intersection with Castle Point Carriage Road. Then, we'll hike towards Castle Point, which offers spectacular panoramic views on a clear day. From here, we'll hike the Blueberry Run Footpath back to Lower Awosting Carriage Road, and then return back to our starting point. The footpaths may include challenging conditions for some, including slippery rocks and tree roots. A few sections of the Rainbow Falls Footpath require some rock scrambling, which may be difficult for some. Some other sections of trail may be muddy and wet. Participants are highly encouraged to wear waterproof boots and bring plenty of food and water. Meet at the Lower Parking Area. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sun 16 Apr
Hike to the White Cliffs of Millbrook Mountain at Minnewaska
Sunday, April 16, 2023 09:30 AM - 02:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for this modestly challenging, five-mile round-trip hike along the Millbrook Mountain Footpath and Millbrook Mountain Carriage Road. Stunning, panoramic views of the Wallkill Valley and the Catskills are abundant from the top of the white cliffs of Millbrook Mountain. The footpath section of this outing traverses through forests, over a stream and exposed rock slabs, with sustained downhill and uphill sections. Some participants may find this uneven terrain challenging. The other half of this loop hike, which is on the meandering Millbrook Mountain and Lake Minnewaska Carriage Roads, is less strenuous, offering scenic views of the steep- sided Palmaghatt Ravine below and distant views of New Jersey. Participants should bring water, snacks and lunch and wear appropriate hiking shoes. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling Minnewaska at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Tue 18 Apr
Early Morning Birders at Minnewaska
Tuesday, April 18, 2023 08:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Designed for both birding enthusiasts and those just looking to learn the basics, this weekly series will offer outings led by Nick Martin, Park Preserve Educator, or an experienced birding volunteer. Participants should bring binoculars, water, and wear hiking shoes or boots. Outing destinations will be determined the day of the program. Poor weather conditions will trigger a program cancellation. Participants will meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. Participants MUST arrive prior to the start of the program. The Park Preserve gates will be locked at 8:00 am. Late arrivals will NOT be allowed in the Park Preserve. The total number of participants for this program is limited to twenty-five individuals. Meet at the Main Entrance. For questions, please call 845-255-0752 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov.This program is set up on a first-come, first-served basis.
Tue 18 Apr
Tuesday Trek: Millbrook Mountain Loop Hike at Minnewaska
Tuesday, April 18, 2023 09:30 AM - 02:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, and Josh Grosse, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps Environmental Educator, for this five-mile hike along the Lake Minnewaska Carriage Road, Millbrook Mountain Carriage Road and Millbrook Mountain Footpath. The gorgeous views from the cliff on top of Millbrook Mountain include the Sky Top stone observation tower and the early spring leaves of the Wallkill Valley below. Raptors are often seen soaring beneath the cliff. The footpath does feature a steep hill up and down, as well as a stream crossing and some potentially tricky footing. Participants should pack water and food and wear appropriate shoes. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Thu 20 Apr
Homeschoolers at Minnewaska: Frog Fun and Salamander Search
Thursday, April 20, 2023 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
After a long, cold winter slumber, the frogs and salamanders of the Park Preserve have finally woken up! Join us to observe these lively critters as they stretch their legs and relocate to the vernal pools in the Peter's Kill Area. Starting with a lesson on identification and food webs, we will become familiar with the noises, appearances, and activities of each amphibian, as well as the eggs they lay this time of year. Once we've all become experts, we will go out in the field and see, hear, and search for these creatures with a fun, hands-on approach. We will also play "Frog Metamorphosis Tag", a game about frog life cycles. This program is recommended for children seven to twelve years old, accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Well-behaved younger siblings are always welcome. Pre-registration is required by calling Minnewaska at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Fri 21 Apr
Birding at the Gardiner Library
Friday, April 21, 2023 08:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Are you interested in birds or birdwatching? Join Nick Martin, Park Preserve Educator, for bird walks starting at the Gardiner Library, every Friday during April. During this program, we will take an approximately one mile walk on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and wander through Majestic Park, which can be muddy and wet, especially after a rainfall. Participants are encouraged to wear waterproof boots or shoes, bring binoculars, and a birding field guide, or field guide installed into a smart device. Interested participants are welcome to attend one or all Friday programs. The total number of participants for this program is limited to fifteen individuals. Meet at the Gardiner Library, in the Lower Parking Area. No pre-registration is required. For more information, please contact the Gardiner Library directly at 845-255-1255 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov.
Sat 22 Apr
Earth Day Volunteer Litter Pick Up and Invasive Plant Pull
Saturday, April 22, 2023 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Join Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps members Josh Grosse and Sophia Atkinson, for a chance to make a positive impact at Minnewaska State Park Preserve this Earth Day. On Earth Day, we take time to appreciate the wonderful natural world we live in and do whatever we can to protect it. This year, we'll be doing litter pick up all around the Park Preserve, and an invasive species pull near the Lake Minnewaska beach. Bring yourself and your passion for conservation, and we'll provide you with the necessary materials for each project. Those who feel more comfortable bringing their own gardening gloves for the pull are more than welcome to do so. There will be a good deal of bending and leaning over for the invasive species pull, so those looking to participate should keep this in mind. There is no commitment to a particular amount of time doing either activity, but those who complete a certain amount will be given a fun sticker. This program is good for people of all ages! Come to Minnewaska to make a difference, give back to our beautiful planet, and have a good time doing it. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is not required.
Sun 23 Apr
Wawarsing Turnpike and Mossy Glen Footpath Loop Hike at Minnewaska
Sunday, April 23, 2023 09:30 AM - 02:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Explore some of the less travelled footpaths in Minnewaska on this approximately five-mile hike with Laura Conner, Environmental Educator. Leaving from the Lower Parking Area, we'll begin our hike on the Wawarsing Turnpike Footpath, a remnant of the former toll road that predates the current US Route 44 and New York State Route 55. Upon reaching the intersection with Jenny Lane, we will take this footpath across one stream and then uphill through forests and across rock slabs until the intersection with Blueberry Run Footpath. From here, we will take this footpath for a short distance, crossing the Peter's Kill stream on a rustic footbridge, to reach the Mossy Glen Footpath. This beautiful trail runs along the Peter's Kill stream and through different forest types. This outing will include two stream crossings and some potentially tricky footing that some may find challenging. Please bring plenty of water and food and wear hiking shoes. Meet at the Lower Parking Area. Pre-registration is required by calling Minnewaska at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Tue 25 Apr
Early Morning Birders at Minnewaska
Tuesday, April 25, 2023 08:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Designed for both birding enthusiasts and those just looking to learn the basics, this weekly series will offer outings led by Nick Martin, Park Preserve Educator, or an experienced birding volunteer. Participants should bring binoculars, water, and wear hiking shoes or boots. Outing destinations will be determined the day of the program. Poor weather conditions will trigger a program cancellation. Participants will meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. Participants MUST arrive prior to the start of the program. The Park Preserve gates will be locked at 8:00 am. Late arrivals will NOT be allowed in the Park Preserve. The total number of participants for this program is limited to twenty-five individuals. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. For questions, please call 845-255-0752 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov. This program is set up on a first-come, first-served basis.
Tue 25 Apr
Tuesday Trek: The Shorter and More Scenic Route to Gertrude’s Nose at Minnewaska
Tuesday, April 25, 2023 09:30 AM - 02:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, and Josh Grosse, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps Environmental Educator, for an adventurous, six-mile round-trip hike to Gertrude's Nose and back along the same route. This footpath, which traverses an escarpment edge, offers one of the most expansive views in Minnewaska. From our start at Lake Minnewaska, this route will follow Millbrook Mountain Carriage Road to Gertrude's Nose Footpath, which offers cliff-edge views of the Wallkill Valley, Taconic Mountains and beyond. This modestly challenging hike includes a steep rock staircase, a few hills, and some tricky footing. Participants must bring water, snacks and lunch and wear appropriate hiking shoes. Please note, if the trail is still closed for safety reasons, this hike route will be changed. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Fri 28 Apr
Birding at the Gardiner Library
Friday, April 28, 2023 08:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Are you interested in birds or birdwatching? Join Nick Martin, Park Preserve Educator, for bird walks starting at the Gardiner Library, every Friday during April. During this program, we will take an approximately one mile walk on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and wander through Majestic Park, which can be muddy and wet, especially after a rainfall. Participants are encouraged to wear waterproof boots or shoes, bring binoculars, and a birding field guide, or field guide installed into a smart device. Interested participants are welcome to attend one or all Friday programs. The total number of participants for this program is limited to fifteen individuals. Meet at the Gardiner Library, in the Lower Parking Area. No pre-registration is required. For more information, please contact the Gardiner Library directly at 845-255-1255 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov.
Sat 29 Apr
Bird Outing and Hike in the Former Awosting Reserve at Minnewaska
Saturday, April 29, 2023 08:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Join Park Preserve Educator, Nick Martin, for an approximately three-mile-long birding hike on the Awosting Reserve Access Road, a woods road in the southern part of Minnewaska. During this outing, we will be looking and listening for early spring arrival birds as we walk – the distance and pace of the hike will depend on the presence of birds. Distractions by other natural curiosities, such as plants, are welcomed and encouraged. This route has continuous uphill sections, which some may find challenging, but the return trip will be all downhill. All participants should wear appropriate footwear and bring sufficient food and water to sustain themselves for the duration of the hike. Participants are also encouraged to bring binoculars if they have them. Meet at the Aumick Road parking area. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sun 30 Apr
The Shorter and More Scenic Route to Gertrude’s Nose at Minnewaska
Sunday, April 30, 2023 09:30 AM - 02:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for an adventurous, six-mile round-trip hike to Gertrude's Nose and back along the same route. This footpath, which traverses an escarpment edge, offers one of the most expansive views in Minnewaska. From our start at Lake Minnewaska, this route will follow Millbrook Mountain Carriage Road to Gertrude's Nose Footpath, which offers cliff-edge views of the Wallkill Valley, Taconic Mountains and beyond. This modestly challenging hike includes a steep rock staircase, a few hills, and some tricky footing. Participants must bring water, snacks and lunch and wear appropriate hiking shoes. Please note, if the trail is still closed for safety reasons, this hike route will be changed. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sat 06 May
12th Annual I Love My Park Day at Minnewaska and Sam’s Point
Saturday, May 6, 2023 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
This event is part of more than 100 cleanup, improvement and beautification events happening statewide. I Love My Park Day is an exciting statewide event to improve and enhance New York's State Parks and historic sites and bring visibility to the entire state park system and its needs. Volunteers will clean up park lands and beaches, plant trees and gardens, restore trails and wildlife habitat, remove invasive species and work on various site improvement projects. Specific events will be listed shortly. Call the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752 or the Sam's Point Visitor Center at 845-647-7989 for more information.