Platte Clove Preserve
Discover stunning waterfalls and panoramic Hudson Valley views at Platte Clove Preserve, a steep but rewarding natural escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lush greenery, flowing falls
Platte Clove Preserve
Best Time
Lush greenery, flowing falls
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover stunning waterfalls and panoramic Hudson Valley views at Platte Clove Preserve, a steep but rewarding natural escape.
"Beautiful hidden gem with amazing waterfalls and overlooks, worth the steep drive and parking hunt. "
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is scarce! Aim for early morning to snag a spot and avoid tickets. 🚗
💰 Donation for Maintenance
A $5 donation at the trailhead helps maintain this beautiful spot. :moneybag:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 179 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Platte Clove Falls
Main trail
Majestic waterfalls cascading down rocky cliffs, especially impressive after rain or when frozen in winter.
Hudson River Valley Overlooks
Overlook trail
Panoramic vistas of the expansive Hudson River Valley, offering breathtaking views.
Frozen Winter Wonderland
Throughout the preserve
Experience the magic of frozen waterfalls and ice flows, attracting ice climbers in winter.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Access
Seasonal Beauty & Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is scarce! Aim for early morning to snag a spot and avoid tickets. 🚗
💰 Donation for Maintenance
A $5 donation at the trailhead helps maintain this beautiful spot. :moneybag:
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Trails can be steep and slippery, especially to the falls. Wear good hiking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the stunning waterfall shots and panoramic valley overlooks. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is scarce! Aim for early morning to snag a spot and avoid tickets. 🚗
💰 Donation for Maintenance
A $5 donation at the trailhead helps maintain this beautiful spot. :moneybag:
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Trails can be steep and slippery, especially to the falls. Wear good hiking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the stunning waterfall shots and panoramic valley overlooks. :camerawithflash:
⚠️ Seasonal Road Access
The access road is typically open May-November due to steepness. Check local advisories. :road:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Platte Clove Preserve is lauded as a beautiful hidden gem with stunning waterfalls and scenic overlooks. Visitors appreciate the relatively short hike to the falls, though the steepness and limited, strictly enforced parking are significant drawbacks. The seasonal road access and the request for donations are also key points for planning a visit.
"Beautiful hidden gem. Just a few minutes walk from the road."
MK
"Great little jaunt in the forest, there is a $5 donation at the trailhead & very little parking to be had. The waterfalls are amazing & so are some of the outlooks onto the Hudson River valley. The road getting there to or from West Saugerties is narrow & very steep, so it is only open from May until November, I believe."
Nathan June
"Went to the waterfall with my 3-year-old. It's pretty easy, took us less than 20 min.
The parking is tricky.
We had to wait for a car to leave and it took about 15 minutes.
The park ranger drives up and down the street issuing $100 tickets. I even saw a car get towed.
Upon walking to the entry, we found a easy to use map along with spectacular views. One of the best after Katerskill.
The hiking path to waterfall was fair..a little steep but acceptable...I will be back"
Isaac K.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Platte Clove Preserve is accessible via a narrow and very steep road, typically open from May to November. The closest towns are Saugerties and Woodstock. Be prepared for a challenging drive.
No, the road is usually only open seasonally, from May until November, due to its steep and narrow nature.
The road is described as very narrow and steep, requiring careful driving.
While specific GPS coordinates are best, be aware that the road from West Saugerties is particularly steep.
Use a reliable GPS and drive cautiously, especially on the steep sections of the access road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While there isn't a formal entrance fee, a $5 donation at the trailhead is requested to help with maintenance.
No advance booking is required. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis, especially for parking.
The preserve is generally open during daylight hours, but access is dependent on the seasonal road opening (May-November).
You can visit in winter, but the access road may be closed or difficult to navigate. The waterfalls are spectacular when frozen.
The primary restriction is the seasonal road access and limited parking. Be mindful of parking regulations to avoid tickets.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the stunning Platte Clove Falls and the panoramic overlooks of the Hudson River Valley.
The hike to the waterfall is described as pretty easy and short, taking less than 20 minutes for some visitors.
The trail to the falls is described as fair and a little steep, but acceptable. Some sections can be challenging, especially in winter conditions.
Expect spectacular views of waterfalls, ice flows in winter, and expansive vistas of the Hudson River Valley from the overlooks.
Yes, it's considered pretty easy and short enough for a 3-year-old, though supervision is always recommended on steep trails.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The base of the waterfalls offers dramatic shots, and the overlook trails provide stunning panoramic landscape photography opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for capturing the beauty of the falls and valley, minimizing harsh shadows.
Steep trails, potential slippery conditions, and limited parking can be challenges. Winter photography requires extra preparation for the cold and ice.
A wide-angle lens is great for the expansive valley views, while a telephoto can capture details of the waterfalls. Sturdy tripods are helpful for long exposures. :camerawithflash:
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or park management before flying a drone. :drone:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit