Guests often ask us “When is the best time to visit?”
Since our resort is open year-round and has countless activities in any season, it may seem hard to pinpoint exactly when you should plan your mountain getaway. Don’t worry — we’re here to give you an insider’s view on how to make the most out of your Mohonk vacation.
Here at Mohonk, summer is high season, particularly from July through the end of August. For 150 years, guests have been escaping the hustle and bustle of the city and “summering” at Mohonk for our miles of hiking trails, lake swimming, boating, the famous Granary outdoor BBQ, and campfires with s’mores at night. It’s a classic summer vacation that continues to be incredibly popular for all ages—especially for multi-generational travel and family reunions. The old-world charm and endless outdoor activities are ideal for adventurers both young and old to explore. So yes, many guests feel summer is the traditional “best” time to visit. But for those in the know, there’s an even better time.
The secret sweet spot? The beginning of June!
Everyone thinks of summer as July and August, but beginning Memorial Day Weekend, we kick off our “secret summer”—it’s all the fun of summer on the mountaintop with lake swimming, weekend barbecues, kayaks, and more. But it still has all the sweet serenity of spring. “It’s everything that is great about summer at Mohonk, but without as many guests,” says Director of Recreation, Annie Pilek. “I always tell people that the first two weeks of June are the best time to come. The kids have yet to get out of school but the lake is warming up, the trails are stunning, and horseback and carriage rides are just beginning.”
Reopening in early June, Mohonk’s Lakeview Summerhouse is an outdoor sanctuary enveloped by nature. Perched on the cliffs overlooking Lake Mohonk with a majestic view of Sky Top Tower, the summerhouse provides a truly unique setting for wellness. Since its grand opening last summer, the Lakeview Summerhouse is one of the most sought-after experiences on our mountaintop. Take advantage of less competition for reservations during our “secret summer” season and reserve a luxurious nature-inspired massage, mindfulness session, yoga class, or private meditation.
Apart from Mohonk’s extensive outdoor activities, our “secret summer” features theme programs such as Music on the Mountain, June 12-18, 2023. Begin your summer season on a high note with a weeklong music festival highlighting R&B, a cappella, broadway, reggae, classic rock, jazz, folk, and even Caribbean fusion. To top it all off, we will hold our first-ever sunset concert at Sky Top Tower overlooking the Shawangunk Cliffs and Lake Mohonk.
“Secret summer” is also the best time to celebrate Dad, by treating him to a weekend away with or without the family, during Father’s Day Weekend, June 16 – 18, 2023. The weekend will feature live music, outdoor BBQs at the Granary (Dad doesn’t even have to cook!), golf, and family-friendly activities on the lake, such as canoeing, paddleboarding, and swimming.
And of course, Mohonk’s famous Kids’ Club returns on June 17th, 2023! Based on a philosophy that “lets kids be kids,” this complimentary program is designed to include plenty of playtime while exploring Mohonk’s natural beauty. The sessions are divided into two age groups: Explorers (ages 4 – 6), and Adventurers (ages 7 – 12). Our program also offers a choice of morning, afternoon, and evening sessions for all ages, so that parents and children can be flexible in planning their day. Kids’ Club features indoor and outdoor activities such as scavenger hunts, crafts, rock scrambling, games, and so much more.
We hope to see you in June
Whether you’re into rock climbing, mountain biking, or rock scrambling through our iconic Labyrinth and Lemon Squeeze, these “early days of summer” are just as enchanting as the high season. You can cap off your perfect stay together with our inclusive meals and recreation or a cocktail on the Sunset Porch. Be sure to toast one of our best-kept secrets—the magic of a June visit.
Ready to book? Stay midweek and save up to 20% with the Hudson Valley Getaway special offer.