Mohonk Preserve offers a rugged invitation to hikers of all stripes, weaving through forested paths where towering oaks dare you to move deeper and rocky ledges reveal panoramic views that crown your effort. Located near High Falls, New York, this terrain is a mosaic of rolling hills and jagged cliffs, each step measured in earth underfoot and sky stretching wide above. The preserve’s network of trails spans over 8,000 acres, with routes ranging from short, rewarding loops to full-day excursions. Notably, the High Falls trail delivers a powerful combination of moderate elevation gain—around 800 feet over 3.5 miles—and a terrain that blends steady inclines with occasional rock scrambles.

Starting your hike, the forest breathes around you; leaves whisper in a brisk wind, and babbling brooks challenge your footing with their cool persistence. The trails are well-marked but expect natural obstacles like roots and stones, requiring solid footwear with reliable tread. As you ascend, the landscape shifts—the trees thin, giving way to broad ledges commanding views of the Shawangunk Ridge carving the horizon. The High Falls themselves, a cascading rush of water over rugged cliffs, punctuate the landscape with movement and sound, daring explorers to pause and absorb.

Timing your visit is crucial. Early morning hours often gift quieter trails and softer light on the vistas, while afternoon can bring warmer temperatures and busier paths. Pack water strategically—there are no reliable refill points once you depart the preserve’s main entrance—and dress in layers to adapt to swift microclimate changes. This hike is achievable in a half-day, yet allows for moments to catch your breath and note the intricate life clinging to the rocks and roots: moss, lichens, and occasional glimpses of barred owls or white-tailed deer.

For those planning a visit, start with a sturdy pair of hiking boots and a well-packed daypack including hydration, snacks, a map, and weather-appropriate clothing. Cell reception can waver among the ridges, so download maps offline and inform someone of your itinerary. Respect the preserve’s rules: pack out all trash, tread lightly, and yield to wildlife. The experience of Mohonk Preserve is not about conquering but engaging with a landscape that is fiercely itself, rewarding awareness and preparation with stunning vistas and memorable encounters.

Whether this is your first hike or one of many, Mohonk Preserve’s High Falls trail offers an accessible challenge framed by nature’s raw edge. Step carefully, look widely, and return with both your legs tired and your perspective broadened.