Transport yourself back in time at Mohonk Mountain House. Surrounded by thousands of acres of unspoiled forest and winding trails, this seven-story Victorian castle has successfully maintained its distinct 19th-century character into the 21st century. Secluded and unspoiled, our historic New York hotel offers a haven of charm and grace nestled in pristine wilderness—a favorite getaway for couples and families alike. Surround yourself with the Old World charm of Mohonk Mountain House. Our hotel features numerous distinctions, including:
Much as one sees Lake Mohonk today, Albert Smiley saw it in 1869 when he visited the spectacular Shawangunk Ridge. He and his twin brother envisioned a peaceful retreat where people could enjoy the beauty of nature in a truly spectacular setting. With the purchase of 280 acres and a small inn, the history of Mohonk Mountain House had begun.
The brothers eventually turned the ten-room inn and tavern into the grand House it is today, with gracious accommodations for 600 guests. Today, the sight of this enchanting New York historic hotel—which stretches nearly an eighth of a mile along sweeping lawns and vivid, award-winning gardens—never fails to thrill. Experience this legendary castle in New York State, which has hosted more than a century’s worth of distinguished guests, including naturalists, theologians, and business leaders, as well as award-winning actors, artists, authors, and musicians. Five Presidents of the Unites States have stayed on our mountaintop—Chester A. Arthur, Rutherford B. Hayes, William Howard Taft, Theodore Roosevelt, and William Jefferson Clinton.
The Smileys have owned and operated Mohonk Mountain House since Albert smiley’s original purchase in 1869. Albert K. Smiley, president of Mohonk Mountain House since 1990, is the great-grand-nephew of Mohonk’s founder. Presently, there are more than 20 Smiley family members from three generations involved in the Mohonk entity.
Founder Albert was much more than simply a hotel proprietor. His Quaker beliefs led him to a dedication to the cause of peace. In 1895, he convened the first of many annual conferences on International Arbitration, held at Mohonk Mountain House. The purpose of these meetings was to provide a forum for national and international leaders to meet and discuss world problems in an effort to find alternatives to war. The conferences continued through 1916, and included notable attendees such as President William Howard Taft, William Jennings Bryan, and Secretaries of State of successive administrations. These conferences highlighted a concern for peaceful conflict resolution that has been credited with giving impetus to the Hague Conference movement. The United Nations of today can trace its roots back to the Hague Conferences.
Throughout the years, members of the Smiley family have found notable ways to contribute to the goals of Mohonk Mountain House. Daniel Smiley (1907-2001) established a natural science research center on the property; Keith Smiley (1910-2001) convened Mohonk Consultations to confer on issues related to the environment; Ruth Smiley (1910-2004) was tireless in her efforts to interpret nature for guests.
Mohonk Mountain House continues the tradition of promoting conversation and environmental awareness with Mohonk Consultations, a not-for-profit, supporting the appreciation of all relationships of life on earth, connecting people and the planet through public awards, forums, conferences and other public meetings. Visit Mohonk Consultations for more information.
We are always honored to be mentioned in the media! Below you will find some of our recent “hits!”
For Mohonk Mountain House, a steadfast commitment to “stay the same, only better” has led to outstanding recognition on an international level.
“These accolades are truly an honor for Mohonk Mountain House. We’re grateful to have an outstanding team that continues to enhance the guest experience—from activities, spa, and culinary offerings to great service all within our beautiful, natural setting,” said Nina Smiley, director of marketing and a member of the family that has owned and operated the resort since its inception in 1869. “Our historic property looks forward to sharing this spectacular destination with many more travelers this year.”
From the Roosevelt and Vanderbilt Estates to the historic Stone Houses of Huguenot Street, the surrounding Hudson Valley offers its own distinct charms—the perfect accompaniment to your stay at our New York mountain resort. On your way home, take a trip to the numerous antique stores and wineries.
Of course, with all its luxury and grandeur, Mohonk has become a landmark attraction of its own right. Reservations are required for overnight and day meal guests. Please note that access to the Mountain House is limited to those with reservations or appointments. Other popular attractions in the Hudson Valley area include:
Each season is different at Mohonk Mountain House and each has its own special ambience.
The long, lazy, lingering days of summer invite overnight guests to indulge in outdoor recreation: swim at the beach; paddle a canoe around the lake; play an extra game of tennis or round of golf.
In fall, the aroma of autumn fills the air. Guests enjoy the brisk outdoors as they hike miles of trails, take a carriage. or trail ride, and delight in spectacular foliage.
Winter opportunities are both outdoors (miles of groomed cross-country ski trails and snowshoeing, weather permitting; ice skating in our open-air Pavilion on a refrigerated rink) and indoors. Cozy fireplaces invite guests to curl up with a book to enjoy a quiet moment.
Spring is the season when nature reminds us of the magic of renewal. New leaves grace the trees and hikers can observe the environment changing from one day to the next.
