Awosting Falls
Discover Awosting Falls, a stunning cascade in Minnewaska State Park, accessible via scenic wooded hikes. Perfect for families and nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Awosting Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Awosting Falls, a stunning cascade in Minnewaska State Park, accessible via scenic wooded hikes. Perfect for families and nature lovers.
"The falls themselves are absolutely breathtaking, with clear water rushing over layered rock into a calm pool."
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Lower lot fills fast! If full, you'll park higher up, adding a longer walk.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be steep and rocky. Good hiking shoes are a must for comfort and safety.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Awosting Falls
Minnewaska State Park
Breathtaking waterfall cascading over layered rock into a serene pool. Perfect for all ages.
Wooded Hiking Trails
Minnewaska State Park
Scenic and peaceful paths offering adventure without being overly challenging. Well-maintained and clearly marked.
Lake Minnewaska
Minnewaska State Park
A beautiful lake offering stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. Accessible from the upper parking lot.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Trail Prep
Park Entry & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
are there any hidden lakes or mini waterfalls in nyc or nearby?
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Lower lot fills fast! If full, you'll park higher up, adding a longer walk.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be steep and rocky. Good hiking shoes are a must for comfort and safety.
getting to Minnewaska by public transportation
"Through the Mountain Laurel" – Minnewaska State Park Preserve, Hudson Valley, NY
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on the uphill return hike. Vending machines are available but limited.
🛡️ Tick & Bug Protection
Use repellent and check for ticks after your visit. Some visitors bring pets.
Trip advice
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Lower lot fills fast! If full, you'll park higher up, adding a longer walk.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be steep and rocky. Good hiking shoes are a must for comfort and safety.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on the uphill return hike. Vending machines are available but limited.
🛡️ Tick & Bug Protection
Use repellent and check for ticks after your visit. Some visitors bring pets.
💰 Park Entrance Fee
Expect a per-car fee. Weekdays are generally less crowded and potentially easier for parking.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Awosting Falls for its breathtaking beauty and the enjoyable, scenic hike. The accessibility for various age groups is a major plus, though the parking situation and the uphill return hike from the upper lot can be challenging for some. Ticks are a minor concern, but manageable with precautions.
"Nice but hard walk down and up, if you stop at the top parking lot like I did. They have a beautiful lake
I never came to this park before so they charge $10 per car , if the bottom parking lot is full, they’ll send you on top of the mountaintop parking 1 mile up more less
So be prepared to come down walking 1.3 miles if you want to explore the beautiful waterfall and you are in good shape, because then you have to go up.
Again Be in good shape and always carry water."
vitor azinheira
"We visited this stunning waterfall with a group ranging in age from 2 to 70, and it was an unforgettable experience for everyone. The walk to the falls was scenic and peaceful just enough adventure without being too challenging for our youngest and oldest family members. The grounds are well maintained and offer very wide clearly marked trails. It can be steep in some areas, so bear in mind. There were potter potty’s and vending machines for beverages in the parking area parking was roughly $10 I believe.
The falls themselves are absolutely breathtaking, with clear water rushing over layered rock into a calm pool. There are shaded spots for resting, areas to explore safely, and plenty of nature to take in along the way. It wasn’t too buggy either not a lot of mosquitoes actually which was great. We did find one tick on us after, our fault for not wearing the proper repellent."
Britni
"Came here as Spring edged into Winter. Easy parking and beautiful park. Hiked down to the waterfall with path getting you pretty up close. Lots of cool growth on the cliff walls adding character to the experience. Did see some people bring their pets as well on the trail. Restrooms are available."
Andy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Public transport to Minnewaska State Park is limited. You can take a bus from Poughkeepsie to New Paltz, but a shuttle or Uber/Lyft is likely needed to reach the park itself.
Yes, Minnewaska State Park has parking lots. The lower lot near the falls fills up quickly, so arriving early is recommended.
The parking fee is typically around $10 per car. It's advisable to confirm the current rates before your visit.
You can drive to the Minnewaska State Park lower parking lot, which is closest to Awosting Falls. If this lot is full, you'll be directed to a higher lot, requiring a longer walk.
Yes, restrooms are available, including portable toilets, in the parking areas. Visitor centers also offer clean facilities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets are not typically sold in advance; entry is usually paid upon arrival at the park's parking lot.
The park generally opens at 9 AM and closes at sunset. It's best to check the official New York State Parks website for the most current hours.
There is an entrance fee per vehicle to access Minnewaska State Park, which includes access to Awosting Falls.
Some visitors have reported seeing pets on the trails, but it's always best to check the park's specific pet policy before your visit.
Information on discounts is not widely available. The primary fee is per vehicle.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike from the lower parking lot is relatively short and wooded. However, if the lower lot is full, the walk from the upper lot can be over a mile.
Yes, the walk is generally suitable for children, though some sections can be steep. It's described as just enough adventure without being too challenging.
The trails are well-maintained and clearly marked, but can be steep in some areas. Expect a mix of wooded paths and rocky sections.
While there is a pool at the base of the falls, swimming is generally not permitted directly in the falls area.
You'll find beautiful waterfalls, clear water, layered rock formations, and lush wooded areas. The park also features a stunning lake.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon light can offer beautiful conditions. Consider the season for varied foliage and water flow.
The trail leads you to the falls, offering various angles. The area around the pool at the base provides good perspectives.
A wide-angle lens can capture the falls and surrounding landscape. A tripod might be useful for longer exposures in lower light.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks. It's essential to check the park's regulations regarding drones before flying.
Be mindful of slippery rocks near the water and uneven terrain. Always prioritize safety over the perfect shot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Minnewaska State Park
Trail conditions are generally well-maintained and marked, but the terrain can be steep and rocky in places. It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear, such as hiking boots or sturdy sneakers, to navigate these paths safely. Carrying ample water is also highly recommended, as the hike, especially the return journey, can be strenuous.
For those relying on public transportation, reaching Minnewaska can be challenging. While buses may go to nearby New Paltz, a shuttle service or ride-sharing option like Uber or Lyft is often necessary to cover the distance to the park entrance.
Experiencing Awosting Falls
While the falls are the main attraction, the park itself offers a rich natural environment. Visitors can enjoy the well-maintained grounds and clearly marked trails. It's worth noting that ticks are present in the area, so using insect repellent and checking for ticks after your visit is advised.
The experience at Awosting Falls is often described as breathtaking and unforgettable, making it a worthwhile destination for families and nature lovers alike. The combination of the waterfall, the pool, and the surrounding woodland creates a serene and engaging atmosphere.
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