Hiker’s Holiday
September 25 – 28, 2020
April 23 – 26, 2021
For 88 years hiking enthusiasts have gathered to hike the remarkable trails throughout a spectacular 40,000-acre wilderness region that includes both Mohonk Mountain House and Mohonk Preserve lands. Travelers from around the globe seek out the world-class hiking here, traversing mature forests, sweeping cliffs, and mountain streams. This new and exciting weekend version features a variety of hikes for all levels. Hike all day or choose just a few as we explore changes to the natural landscape in the stunning Shawangunk Mountains made by nature itself.
This Year’s Theme
Mohonk Mountain House and the Mohonk Preserve come together to share their history and introduce all guests to the natural wonders and simple beauty of hiking on this property.
Each day features hikes for all levels
Whether you seek the challenge of steep trails over boulders and cliffs or prefer a relaxing stroll along carriage roads, you will find like-minded hiking companions.
Each day’s outing is complemented by afternoon tea and cookies, sumptuous meals, and captivating evening entertainment. Our award-winning Spa and indoor heated pool provide a relaxing and rejuvenating experience after a day hiking the mountain.
On Sunday September 27, there is an all-day hike (9am – 4:30pm). Order your box lunch from Theme Programs at the following Hiker’s Holiday events:
- Friday, September 25 at 3pm | 7:30pm | 9pm
- Saturday, September 26 at 9am | 10am | 11am
The all-day hikes depart on Sunday at 9am and should return to the Mountain House by 4:30 p.m. Sign-up is required and available through reservations before Friday, September 25 or on the Main Board starting on Friday, September 25.
Grading of Hikes
Strenuous – Full-day and half-day, mornings
Moderate – Full-day mornings and half-day mornings or afternoons
Leisurely – 45-60 minutes, afternoons
Length of time for the hikes are listed with descriptions and are approximate.
Availability is limited. For reservations, please call .
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25
Hiker’s Holiday Meet and Greet and First Hike (Leisurely)
3pm – 5pm
Join us in the Lake Lounge to answer any question you may have about the program. Sign-up for the all-day hike on Sunday and choose your box lunch. At 4pm, enjoy afternoon tea and cookies and meet the program leaders. Then at 4:30pm, join us for a casual 1 hour hike.
After Dinner Walk
7:30pm – 45 min.
Join us on this casual jaunt around Lake Mohonk, as we take in the sheer beauty of the Mountain House as it illuminates in the night sky and our hearts.
Fall Night Hike (Leisurely)
9pm – 1 hour
Enjoy the beautiful evening mountain air on this casual hike to Cope’s Lookout. We’ll depart the Mountain House in full darkness, watching and listening for sights and sounds of the night: stars, planets, satellites, owls, coyotes, whippoorwills, and more – if the weather allows! No flashlights, phones, or electronics please.
Live Music: Pops and the Weasels
8:30pm
Lead by Thomas “Pops” Colello, he and the Weasels will play a variety of blues and jazz traditions from Robert Johnson to John Coltrane. The Weasels’ unique Alley Cat sound will make you want to dance the night away!
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26
Early Morning Walk
7:30am – 1 hour
Join Paul Huth, Director of Research Emeritus, on a leisurely walk along two historic paths built in the autumn of 1874, Lake Shore Path and Undercliff Path, and discuss some of the 150-year long history of this National Historic Landmark property.
Half Day Hike
9am – 4 hours
Take a step back in time with us as we hike on the trails as the first pioneers did. We will be hiking through beautiful forest and over streams to arrive at the historic Yeaple Cabin (built circa 1771). Our journey will continue through Rock Rift Crevice, bringing us to one of the best views of the Catskill Mountains. Hikers will return by 1pm.
Brisk Morning Hike
10am – 1 hour
A member of the Recreation staff will lead a hike along Huguenot Drive, Bridge Road, Forest Drive, and Lake Shore Road. This hike is moderate to fast pace over carriage roads with gradual descents and ascents. Approximately 3 miles. Age 7 and up. Proper footwear is required, sneakers or boots, no flip-flops or sandals.
Moderate Hike
10am – 2 hours
This moderate hike will take you along Sunset Path (the name speaks for itself in the late afternoon) all the while catching glimpses of the Northern Catskill Range. Our journey will take us North as we head towards Maple Path, connecting us with the quartzite rock slabs of Stokes Trail, and the beautiful views looking northwest at the Catskill Mountains.
Brisk Hike
11am – 1 hour
A member of the Recreation staff will lead a brisk morning hike along Mossy Brook Road, Cedar Drive, Old Glenn Anna Road, Bonticou Road, and North Lookout Road. This hike is moderate to fast pace and contains a steep descent with a gradual ascent. Approximately 3 miles. Age 7 and up. Proper footwear is required, sneakers or boots, no flip-flops or sandals.
Leisurely Afternoon Hike
2pm – 1 hour
Join a member of our Recreation staff for this leisurely afternoon hike along Eagle Cliff Road. Approximately 2 miles. Age 7 and up. Proper footwear is required, sneakers or boots, no flip-flops or sandals.
Summerhouse Tour: Behind the scenes with Mohonk’s Rustic Carpenters
3pm – 1 hour
Summerhouses have been an integral feature of Mohonk’s breathtaking grounds since the beginning. During this walk you will see the latest projects undertaken by this very talented crew. Prepare to be amazed!
After Dinner Walk
7:30pm – 45 min.
Join us for a nice stroll out to Copes Lookout, as we take in the breathtaking views of the Catskill Mountains and the surrounding area. We just may catch the sun as it slips below the skyline affording us the opportunity to take in this magnificent sunset.
Live Music with After Five Jazz Combo
8:30pm
This five piece band, directed by Jason Clinton, is an energetic group of talented musicians that perform throughout the Hudson Valley. Come listen to great Jazz, Swing, and even some Rhythm and Blues.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27
Full Day Hikes (Moderate, Strenuous)
9am
Order your box lunch from Theme Programs at the following Hiker’s Holiday
events:
- Friday, September 25 at 3pm | 7:30pm | 9pm
- Saturday, September 26 at 9am | 10am | 11am
The Sunday all-day hikes depart at 9am and should return to the Mountain House by 4:30pm.
Full Day Hike (Strenuous): This hike will get the heart pumping, as we will be covering a lot of mileage while gaining and losing elevation as the hike evolves throughout the day. Our journey will take us to Copes Lookout where we will have majestic views of the Clove Valley and Catskill Mountains. We will then make our way to Arching Rocks Path and scrambling through the mighty Giants Workshop Rock Crevice. We then will be hiking the historic Undivided Lot Trail to meet up with the steep and rugged Clove Path and over to Zaidee’s Bower Crevice. We will be heading up and over the Clove Escarpment via steep paths and trails to get us back to the Mountain House.
Full Day Hike (Moderate): Sky Top will be the focus of this moderate hike, as you take in some of the Hudson Valley’s greatest viewpoints. From Lake Mohonk, we will make our way around Sky Top hiking on the Spring Path and Staircliff Path, while taking in the views of the Tower from the talus below. We then will travel on Forest Drive heading towards Fox Path and up the backside of Sky Top Tower hiking Sky Top Road passing Lily Pond where you just might catch spring peepers and wood frogs singing their spring song for all to hear. Our descent will bring us back on various trails to the Mountain House to share your experiences of the day with fellow Hikers Holiday participants.
*Note: Pre-registration with overnight reservation is required. Space is limited.
Brisk Morning Hike
10am – 1 hour
Brisk morning hike to Sky Top via Huguenot Drive and Sky Top Road — this hike is moderate to fast pace is up hill on carriage roads and returns on a path. Approximately 3 miles. Age 7 and up. Proper footwear is required, sneakers or boots, no flip-flops or sandals.
Leisurely Afternoon Hike
2pm – 1 hour
Take a hike along Home Farm Loop with Mohonk’s Recreation staff. Approximately 1 ¾ miles. Age 7 and up. Proper footwear is required, sneakers or boots, no flip-flops or sandals.
Brisk Hike
3pm – 1 hour
Hike along Lake Shore Road, Forest Drive, Bridge Road, and Huguenot Drive, Hemlock Lane, and North Lookout Road. This hike is moderate to fast pace over carriage roads with gradual descents and ascents. Approximately 3 ½ miles. Age 7 and up. Proper footwear is required, sneakers or boots, no flip-flops or sandals.
Evening Entertainment: TBA
8:30pm
More details to come.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28
Early Fox Walk: The Way of our Ancestors
7:30am – 1 hour
Learn how moving efficiently through the natural world helps to pattern our brains for expanded awareness and our bodies for balance, agility, and strength. Shifting from an urban or suburban gait to our ancestral gait makes us instantly quieter in the woods and enables a more intimate perspective into the natural world. By learning to expand all of our senses to their fullest potential, we are able to see more wildlife and discern more subtle patterns. 1 mile, easy pace, all are welcome.
Farewell Hike
9am – 3 hours
Our final long hike will be one to remember. We will travel around beautiful Lake Mohonk to a short rock scramble where we will be able to take in breathtaking views of Sky Top, Lake Mohonk, and the Mountain House from Eagle Cliff. We then will travel to Copes Lookout where we will soak up the views of the Catskill Mountains from one of the best view spots on the ridge. Our journey will end at the Mountain House where this will conclude our Hikers’ Holiday program until next September.
Brisk Morning Hike
10am – 1 hour
Join a member of our Recreation staff for this brisk morning hike along Copes Lookout Road, Humpty Dumpty Road, Long Woodland Drive, and Lake Shore Road – This hike is moderate to fast pace over relatively flat terrain with gradual uphill portions. Approximately 3 miles. Age 7 and up Proper footwear is required, sneakers or boots, no flip-flops or sandals.
Leisurely Afternoon Hike
2pm – 1 hour
Join a member of our Recreation staff for this leisurely afternoon hike. Approximately 1 mile. Age 7 and up. Proper footwear is required, sneakers or boots, no flip-flops or sandals.
Availability is limited. For reservations, please call .
MEET OUR PROGRAM LEADERS
Roger Ennis
Roger grew up in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia where he eventually made his way to the Hudson Valley in 1995 where he has lived ever since. He found his passion in rock climbing, which afforded him the opportunity to receive a degree from the State University of New York at Cortland in Outdoor Recreation. Roger is New York State Certified in Rock and Ice Climbing, Hiking, and Camping Guide as well as a Ranger-Program Specialist with the Mohonk Preserve. When he is not working, you can catch him (usually with his wife and son) out rock climbing or doing the many other activities he enjoys. The Shawangunk Ridge has given him the opportunity to explore and nurture his love for the outdoors and he will forever have a place in his heart for the ridge.
Mohonk Preserve
In 1963 the Smiley Family helped create what is now known as the Mohonk Preserve, the largest non-profit private nature preserve in New York State. The mission of the Mohonk Preserve is to provide ongoing land protection and stewardship of the outlying lands to “preserve the beauty of the landscape and the integrity of the flora and fauna—with appropriate human use and enjoyment” as well as provide a continuation of conservation science and environmental education.
In partnership with members, supporters, and volunteers, the Preserve protects and manages over 8,000 acres of mountain ridges, forests, fields, streams, ponds, and other unique and beautiful places and welcomes over 200,000 visitors annually.
At the Preserve, you can enjoy scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and peace and quiet, all just 90 miles from New York City. Carriage roads and trails are perfect for hiking, running, mountain biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. Proudly the home of “Gunks” climbing and bouldering, one of the most visited climbing destinations in North America. Learn more, become a member, or make a donation at www.mohonkpreserve.org.
When you visit during Hiker’s Holiday, your overnight package includes:
Meals
Our Culinary team at Mohonk Mountain House strive to ensure the health and safety of our guests and staff. Although our dining has been modified, we continue to provide exceptional food quality and unique dining experiences.
- Table Service in the Main Dining Room
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner daily. Brunch menu on Saturdays and Sundays.
Our iconic Main Dining Room is available with reduced capacity and distancing between tables per NY state guidelines. Tablecloths will be replaced and chairs are disinfected between dining parties. We offer contactless menus for our guests via a QR code allowing guests to view menus on their personal devices. - East Dining Room Marketplace
Dinner daily and Lunch (Monday – Friday)
Select signature items in a “Marketplace Grab-n-Go” setting with our culinary team ready to customize plates to your liking. Enjoy your meal “al fresco” on any one of our three covered porches overlooking Lake Mohonk or the Catskill Mountains. Each location is set up with physically-distanced picnic tables. - The Granary Outdoor Barbecue
Lunch on Saturdays and Sundays.
Food service is in a takeout model and every picnic table is separated to ensure more than 6 feet between dining parties and table cloths are disinfected with every new dining party. - Room Service
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner daily. Brunch menu on Saturdays and Sundays.
Guests have the option of ordering breakfast, lunch, and dinner from our in-room dining menu. Room service orders will be provided via “contactless delivery” to your guest room. Additional charges will apply for room service orders placed outside of meal periods.
All dining options described above are included in your overnight rate.
Daily Activities
The majority of Mohonk’s recreation venues will be operational with physical distancing and cleaning measures in place. Activities and Evening Entertainment events will be modified to incorporate physical distancing measures and will be designed at outdoor venues whenever possible and will ensure six-foot distancing between guests’ parties.
- Nightly evening entertainment, special events, and more!
- Yoga, Meditation, and Wellness experiences
- Make an appointment to visit our Greenhouse
- Strolling through the Victorian show garden
Seasonal Activities
- Access to more than 85 miles of scenic hiking trails
- Rowboats, canoes, and fishing on Lake Mohonk
- Lake swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding available through September 20
- Campfires with s’mores, outdoor movies, evening lectures, and outdoor music on weekends
- Guided nature hikes with stunning views of the Catskill Mountains
- Rock scrambling our iconic Labyrinth and Lemon Squeeze trail
- Guided archery and tomahawk throwing sessions
- Complimentary court time on our Har-Tru and red clay tennis courts
- Complimentary greens fees on our historic 9- hole golf course
À la carte experiences available to overnight guests:
- The Carriage Lounge, featuring a full bar and handcrafted cocktails as well as hyper local draft beer and hard cider, now offering beverages to-go
- An award-winning wine list in our dining venues
- Guided rock climbing with Alpine Endeavors
- Carriage and horseback rides
- Private fitness, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness sessions
- Private golf, archery, and tomahawk throwing lessons with our pros
- Mountain bike rental to explore our single track trails
- Fishing pole rental, and bait for purchase
- Disc golf discs available for purchase (weather permitting)