Gertrudes Nose & Millbrook Mountain Loop

With so many amazing hikes available in the Hudson Valley, it is hard to know where to begin. Luckily, you pretty much can't go wrong with any choice you make. This hike allows you to experience so much of what the Mohonk Mountains have to offer, all in one 8 mile loop that ascends 1,288 feet.

From the parking area, you are immediately exposed to Lake Minnewaska which is a beautiful enough place to spend your day. After soaking in the views here, follow the red blazed trails all the way up this well maintained trail. A short distance in, you will get your first views at Pattersons Pellet. This area offers a beautiful view through the gorge, but the best is still to come.

After taking the trail through some areas of wilderness, the next destination is at the 3.5 mile mark - Gertrude's Nose. This is a clifftop walk that offers an incredible amount of panoramic views and photo opportunities that look over the Hudson Valley. It's hard to peel yourself away from this part of the hike, but when you do, continue following the red blazes. Many people will go back at this point, but if you continue down the trail you will most likely have it all to yourself.

The second half of this hike will take you through some nice wilderness trails that include some light scrambles and steep ascents. It will eventually bring you to the summit of Millbrook Mountain, which offers yet even more stunning views. From here, follow the Millbrook Mountain Trail and Lake Minnewaska signs (also blazed red) until you arrive back where you started at Lake Minnewaska.

After hiking, the small but popular town of New Paltz is an ideal place to grab some quality food and drink. Bacchus is the place to be if you like craft beers and pool, and Main Street Bistro is a great local food joint. If time allows, Main Street is full of local shops that you can easily kill a few hours exploring.