Snowshoe hikes at Minnewaska

Just because there is snow on the ground, doesn’t mean going for a walk becomes impossible. Explore the winter wonderland, one step at a time, snowshoe at Minnewaska! Surrounded by landscapes that look powdered in confectioners’ sugar, snowshoeing is a peaceful way to commune with nature. Compared to snow skiing and snowboarding, there’s no steep learning curve or expensive equipment. It’s a good low-impact exercise, and no need to be in great shape to have fun. Simply slip the snowshoes over regular waterproof shoes or boots and start walking, lifting the knees a little higher than usual. The racquet-like base of the snowshoe distributes bodyweight over a broader area, making it feel very manageable and enjoyable. Ready to go? Check out Minnewaska’s upcoming winter hikes.

Awosting Falls snowshoe outing

Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 12 for an approximately two-and-a-half-mile long snowshoe walk along the charming Awosting Falls Carriage Road. Plan to arrive by 9:30 a.m. if borrowing snowshoes. Meet at the Peter’s Kill Area, 5080 Route 44/55, Gardiner.

Wawarsing Turnpike and Jenny Lane hike

Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14 for a hike on some of the lesser-travelled trails on this approximately five-mile outing. This outing includes a few sustained hilly sections and the two stream crossings, which may be challenging for some. Meet at the Lower Parking Lot.

Snowshoe Loop hike at the Peter’s Kill Area

Join Nick Martin, Park Educator, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 18 for a snowshoe hike in the woods of the Peter’s Kill Area of Minnewaska leaving from the Peter’s Kill parking area.

Peter’s Kill two views hike

Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19 for a refreshing, two-mile, round-trip hike in the winter woods to reach two scenic overlooks in the Peter’s Kill Area, both of which feature stunning views in clear weather. While the distance is relatively short, there are a few moderate hills, which may be difficult for some. Meet at Peter’s Kill Area.

Scenic hike along Beacon Hill

Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 20 for an approximately four-mile hike along the Lake Minnewaska Carriage Road, Beacon Hill Footpath and Beacon Hill Carriage Road. Meet at Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center.

Hike the Hidden Meadows Loops

Come join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 21 for an approximately four-mile walk along carriage roads and old woods roads through a former golf course and orchard. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center.

A limited number of snowshoes are available for participants to borrow for these programs from the Education Department. When these run out, snowshoes may be rented for a fee of $5 per person. If there is insufficient snow cover, these programs will be offered as a hike, and participants are encouraged to bring microspikes or other ice traction devices.

Pre-registration for all hikes is required. Call Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.

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Snowshoe hikes at Minnewaska are something the whole family can enjoy.