Sometimes you just want to get out of the house and take a relaxing drive in the mountains. We couldn't be luckier than to have the Shawangunks just outside of New Paltz, NY. Interested in a couple of great scenic views while you are cruising in the country? Use our map in your GPS or follow the easy directions below. Remember to pack your camera, cold drinks, a spotting scope or binoculars, and possible some snacks or a whole picnic cooler.
Head west on route 299 towards the cliffs. Continue until it intersects with route 44/55. The Mountain Brauhaus Restaurant will be on your left. If you are hungry this is a great place to have lunch or dinner, now or on the way back. If you reset your odometer we will give you distances so you can be ready to pull over.
Merge onto route 44/55 West by turning right. You will pass the Mohonk Preserve Visitor Center on your right in case you want to stop in for a hiking pass or information. There are a few short walks around the center that will give you a taste of the mountains.
Continue on 44/55 around the hairpin turn (.9 miles). You can see layers of different soil deposited here from the glaciers that covered this area thousands of years ago. Keep an eye out for your first scenic view parking area on your left (1.4 miles). This is what you will see when looking into the valley. Can you spot our Farm?
You will also see this map and further information about the area.
Now turn around.
Nothing like the good old GUNKS to get the juices flowing for all you rock climbers. Did you know that the Gunks is known as some of the best climbing in the world? True fact! You can hire an experienced guide to take you.
Now let’s head over to a view of the mighty might Catskills. Exit the parking lot and continue west on 44/55 (left out of lot). On your way to the next overlook you will pass the West Trapps parking lot (right), Peter’s Kill (right) and Minnewaska State Park (left). All three of these places are great places to stop and go hiking.
Okay, keep driving and periodically glance to the right. This two lane road soon opens up and exposes you to a view of the beautiful Catskill Mountains. Although you might think,”let me pull over here to take a picture,” Don’t, there is a designated pull off with parking spots (7 miles) so use that as it is safer for everyone. Here is what you will see and we even included some sunset pics.
When done taking photos and breathing in the fresh mountain air you have 2 options. Head a bit further down the road to Rough Cut Brewing for a flight and a bite to eat. Maybe a hemp crusted tofu stick or lamb burger?
Or you can head towards home by just reversing your directions and head east on 44/55 and then a left (East) onto route 299. You might want to stop by the Mountain Bauhaus for libations. If you are dreaming of a fresh baked treat, need to pick up some fresh veggies for dinner or want to pick up some beautiful homegrown flowers stop in Wallkill View Farm, family owned and operated.
Although you have missed the strawberry moon you could get a nice pic of a moon rise, sunset or sunrise if you time it right. We would love to see your pics. Share with us on your favorite social media site or right here as a comment in our blog.