The smell of cherry blossoms and the return of outdoor dining can mean only one thing: spring has sprung in New York City! But while the city’s parks are blooming, the call of the wild is getting louder.
For those craving an escape from the concrete jungle to celebrate the season, we have you covered with a thrilling, wanderlust-filled adventure that will send you to new heights—literally.
Tucked away at the legendary Mohonk Mountain House, a Victorian castle-style resort in New Paltz, lies a hidden gem for adrenaline seekers: the Sky Top Via Ferrata.
What To Expect
A Via Ferrata (Italian for “Iron Path”) is a climbing route that uses permanent cables, rungs, and ladders fixed to the rock. It allows people without expert rock-climbing skills to scale massive cliffs safely.
At Mohonk, you aren’t just hiking; you’re navigating the dramatic quartz conglomerate cliffs of the Shawangunk Ridge (the “Gunks”).
Expect a physical challenge that rewards you with bird’s-eye views of the Hudson Valley that most guests never see. You’ll be clipped into a safety cable at all times, guided by professionals who ensure you’re having fun while staying completely secure.
The Experience: From Treetops to the “Sky Ladder”
The journey begins with a hike through the resort’s pristine forest before the real vertical work starts. The highlights of the Sky Top route include:
- The Sky Ladder: A signature feature where you ascend a series of rungs bolted directly into the cliff face, suspended high above the forest floor.
- Crevice Navigating: You’ll squeeze through narrow rock “lemon squeezes” and natural stone chimneys that Mohonk is famous for.
- The Aerial Traverse: Walking across narrow ledges and bridges where the ground drops away, leaving you feeling like you’re floating between the treetops.
- The Summit Finish: The tour culminates near the iconic Albert Smiley Memorial Tower, offering 360-degree views that stretch across six states on a clear day.
The “Gunks” Landscape
Unlike the soft rolling hills of the Catskills, the Shawangunk Ridge is rugged and prehistoric. As you climb, you’ll encounter twisted pitch pines—rare trees that grow directly out of the rock—and deep rock fissures created over millions of years of glacial activity. It’s a prehistoric playground that feels worlds away from Manhattan.
Know Before You Go
This isn’t your average stroll around the reservoir. Here are a few essentials to keep in mind:
- Reservations are Mandatory: The Via Ferrata is a guided experience and spots fill up months in advance, especially for spring weekends.
- Gear Provided: Mohonk provides all technical gear (harness, helmet, and lanyards). Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes or sneakers with good grip.
- Weather Dependent: Spring weather in the Hudson Valley is fickle. Tours may be rescheduled if the rock is too wet or if there’s lightning in the area.
How To Get There From NYC
The best part about this “castle” escape? You don’t even need a car.
- By Car: It’s a straightforward 90-minute drive up I-87 (The NYS Thruway) to Exit 18. Once you pass through the stone gatehouse, the winding drive up the mountain is an attraction in itself.
- By Bus: Take the Trailways NY bus from Port Authority to New Paltz. From the bus station, it’s a quick 10-minute Lyft or Uber to the Mohonk Mountain House gatehouse.
- By Train: Take Metro-North (Hudson Line) to Poughkeepsie or Amtrak to Poughkeepsie. From there, it’s about a 25-30 minute drive to the resort.
To learn more, visit the official website.