New York City’s abundance of public pools is one of the many things that makes summer here feel so magical. From borough to borough (and to borough, borough and borough, actually) there’s no shortage of places to cool off when temperatures climb. But every now and then, even the most devoted New Yorker craves something a little quieter, a place where the soundtrack shifts from sirens and subway cars to rushing water, rustling leaves, and birdsong.
Luckily, one of the region’s most remarkable hidden escapes is tucked away in the heart of the Hudson Highlands. Carved directly into rugged granite cliffs and surrounded by dense forest, Split Rock Hole feels almost too surreal to be real.
With crystal-clear, spring-fed waters, dramatic rock formations, and historic stonework dating back to the 1930s, this natural oasis offers the kind of refreshing summer escape that feels a world away from the city, despite being just a short trip from NYC.
A Hidden Oasis in the Shawangunks
Split Rock is a unique, highly picturesque geological marvel where the Coxing Kill stream breaks through a narrow granite gorge.
The centerpiece of this location is a dramatic 12-foot waterfall that cascades beneath a rustic footbridge, emptying directly into a deep, narrow chasm roughly 5 to 8 feet deep. On sunny days, the exceptionally clear water reflects vibrant turquoise highlights against the dark stone.
As the water flows out of the primary chasm, it feeds into a gently sloping, shallower pool about 3 to 4 feet deep. With a soft, sandy bottom mixed with small river rocks, this lower pool is a perfect wading area for families and children, though it is a bit too small for long-distance lap swimming.
Along the nearby roadside on Clove Road, visitors can also enjoy a whimsical collection of large driftwood sculptures displayed along the woods.
The History and Heritage of the Preserve
While the rock formations themselves have been shaped over millennia by the rushing waters of the Coxing Kill, the human history of the area adds to its timeless charm. Located within the protected lands of the Mohonk Preserve—New York’s largest member-supported nature preserve—the surrounding trails feature historic stonework and carriage roads, some of which date back to the 1930s and the era of the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Though there is no “official” designated public beach or on-duty lifeguard at Split Rock, wading and cooling off in the stream have been a cherished local tradition for generations. The preserve carefully manages the area to balance historic preservation, ecological conservation, and outdoor recreation.
Getting There: Directions from New York City
Split Rock is located near New Paltz, New York, making it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway from NYC.
1. Take the New York State Thruway (I-87) North to Exit 18 (New Paltz).
2. After the toll, turn left onto Route 299 West and drive through the historic downtown of New Paltz.
3. Follow Route 299 for approximately 7 miles until it ends, then make a right turn onto Route 44-55.
4. Pass the Mohonk Preserve Visitor Center (which will be on your right after about a half-mile).
5. Continue 1.5 miles past the Visitor Center, then turn right onto Clove Road, bearing right at the immediate fork.
6. For Direct Access: Drive about 1 mile down Clove Road and turn left into the Coxing Trailhead parking area. The swimming area is located directly across the road, just before the footbridge.
7. For a Scenic Hike: Alternatively, you can park at the Trapps Parking Area off Route 44-55 and take the Shongum Path downhill toward the water.
