The Trapps New Paltz
World-renowned climbing destination with scenic carriage roads and diverse hiking trails offering stunning views and wildlife encounters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
The Trapps New Paltz
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
World-renowned climbing destination with scenic carriage roads and diverse hiking trails offering stunning views and wildlife encounters.
"Amazing area to walk with exquisite terrain and breathtaking views."
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Aim for just before 9 AM on weekends to secure a spot. :car:
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Even carriage roads are easy, but woods paths and rock scrambles require good shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Carriage Roads
Carriage Roads
Easy, accessible paths perfect for walking, biking, or even strollers, offering beautiful views.
World-Renowned Rock Climbing
Cliffs
Witness or participate in top-tier trad climbing for all levels. Informational stations explain the sport.
Waterfall Views
Various trails
Discover picturesque waterfalls on a loop trail or a more direct there-and-back hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Access
Trail Etiquette & Closures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Uber from New Paltz to Mohonk hiking trails?
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Aim for just before 9 AM on weekends to secure a spot. :car:
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Even carriage roads are easy, but woods paths and rock scrambles require good shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Best Scenic Outlooks for Photography
🗺️ Check Trail Closures
Sections close for falcon nesting; check the website beforehand. :information_desk:
💧 Bring Your Own Water
Restrooms are available, but there's no running water. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Aim for just before 9 AM on weekends to secure a spot. :car:
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Even carriage roads are easy, but woods paths and rock scrambles require good shoes. :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Check Trail Closures
Sections close for falcon nesting; check the website beforehand. :information_desk:
💧 Bring Your Own Water
Restrooms are available, but there's no running water. :droplet:
📸 Capture the Views
The terrain and wildlife offer fantastic photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about The Trapps for its stunning natural beauty, diverse trails, and world-class rock climbing. The accessible carriage roads are a hit for all ages, while the more rugged paths offer a good workout. The chance to see wildlife and enjoy scenic views, including waterfalls, adds to the appeal. Some visitors note that parking can be challenging on busy days and advise checking for trail closures due to nesting wildlife.
"This is a great parking area for walking the trails here. We met two friends to do a ten mile walk. We went from the parking lot to the Undercliff Carriage Road to Rhododendron Bridge where we stopped for a snack. From here we decided to go Laurel Ledge Road for a mile or two. On the return we took the Overcliff Carriage Road. These are easy trails to walk on. A woman was pushing a baby carriage on the Overcliff Carriage Road. There are not many trails that you can do that.
It was a beautiful Tuesday in late September so the parking lot was only about half full. I’m sure it fills up early on weekends or holidays. There is a booth when you enter the parking lot to pay and ask questions. There is a nice bathroom in the parking lot.
This is an amazing area to walk. After our walk we went into New Paltz for a late lunch at the Main Course which was great. We have eaten at a few other restaurants in New Paltz and Main Course is one we will go back to again. You could not ask for a better day. A beautiful walk and a delicious lunch."
Bill Lozano
"The best part are the views and the exquisite terrain. Well worth going to the waterfall. There is a loop trail that you can do as well but it is much longer 4-5 hours. Better to use the there and back which takes 2-3 hours."
Eduardo Mace
"Despite the dreary drizzling day, we had a great hike here, which is a testament to how beautiful this preserve and climbing area is. World-renown for it's top tier rock climbing, I learned a lot about the sport from the various information stations along the trail. It was fantastic to stop and watch several climbing groups too.
The wildlife is also flourishing despite the intense amount of visitors here. We sat and observed a young porcupine, & listened to woodpeckers and other birds."
Dani The Girl
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Taking an Uber from New Paltz is an option, but it's not always reliable for the return trip. Public transportation options are limited, so carpooling or checking for local shuttle services might be necessary if you don't have your own vehicle.
Yes, there is a parking lot with an entrance booth where you pay a fee. Arriving before 9 AM on weekends is highly recommended for easier parking.
Absolutely! The carriage roads are perfect for biking, offering a scenic way to explore the area.
Yes, there are two bathrooms available: one in the main parking lot and another on the carriage road. However, neither has running water.
The parking lot serves as a great starting point for various hikes. You can choose between easy carriage roads or more challenging woods paths and rock scrambles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee collected at the booth when you enter the parking lot.
While specific hours aren't always listed, it's generally accessible during daylight. It's best to arrive early for parking and to maximize your time.
Information on discounts is not readily available, but the entrance fee is generally considered reasonable for the access it provides.
Yes, day hiking passes are available, often associated with access to Mohonk Mountain House trails.
If the parking lot is full, you may have to wait for a spot to open up or consider visiting on a different day or time. Arriving early is key.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You'll find a mix of easy, flat carriage roads suitable for all abilities, as well as more rugged woods paths and rock scrambles for those seeking a challenge.
The carriage roads are wide and well-maintained, making them suitable for strollers.
Visitors have reported seeing porcupines, woodpeckers, and various birds. It's a flourishing natural area.
While not explicitly stated in the provided information, it's common for natural preserves to have leash laws for dogs. It's advisable to check local regulations.
The carriage roads offer expansive views, and specific trails lead to scenic overlooks and waterfalls.
📸 📸 Photography
The varied terrain, from carriage roads to rock faces, and the chance to see wildlife like porcupines offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Yes, you can often stop and watch climbing groups, providing dynamic subjects for photography.
Morning light can be beautiful on the carriage roads, while afternoon light might be better for capturing climbers against the cliffs.
Depending on the weather, you might encounter overcast conditions, but the natural beauty usually shines through.
Drone usage is often restricted in natural preserves and climbing areas to protect wildlife and ensure safety. It's best to check local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic beauty. While there are bathrooms, remember to bring your own water and snacks. The loop trail to the waterfall is a good option for a moderate family adventure, or you can opt for a shorter there-and-back hike.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Walkers
Many visitors enjoy creating custom routes by linking different trails, allowing for hikes of varying lengths and difficulty. The chance to see waterfalls and enjoy expansive views makes every step worthwhile. Remember to wear appropriate footwear for the terrain you plan to explore.
🧗♀️ Rock Climbers
Be sure to check for any seasonal closures due to falcon nesting to ensure you're climbing in permitted areas. Respecting these closures is vital for conservation efforts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating The Trapps Trails
For those seeking more adventure, numerous woods paths and rock scrambles branch off from the carriage roads. These trails can be more challenging, involving uneven terrain, roots, and rocks, offering a more immersive hiking experience. Many visitors enjoy creating their own loops by combining different paths, allowing for flexibility based on their mood and energy levels.
It's important to note that sections of the climbing areas may close during specific times of the year due to falcon nesting. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information on trail closures before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Rock Climbing at The Trapps
Watching experienced climbers navigate the rock faces is a highlight for many visitors. The dynamic nature of climbing, combined with the dramatic cliff backdrop, makes for compelling viewing. Whether you're a seasoned climber or just curious about the sport, the energy and skill on display are captivating.
It's crucial for climbers to be aware of and respect any seasonal closures related to nesting wildlife, particularly falcons. Adhering to these closures ensures the preservation of the local ecosystem and the safety of both climbers and wildlife.
Wildlife and Nature
The natural beauty of The Trapps is evident in its exquisite terrain and scenic views. From the expansive vistas along the carriage roads to the hidden waterfalls, the preserve offers a refreshing escape into nature. Even on a dreary day, the inherent beauty of the area shines through, as noted by one reviewer.
When exploring, remember to be respectful of the wildlife and their habitat. Maintain a safe distance, avoid feeding animals, and stay on marked trails to minimize your impact on the environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit