Hiking Mohonk Preserve near Makowksy's Cottage Colonies

 Since 2006, Makowsky's Cottage Colonies has offered seasonal real estate rentals of 82 cottages in the summer from June through September. With 33 acres encompassing features such as a lake, pool, and tennis court, Makowsky's Cottage Colonies also lies near the Minnewaska State Park Preserve.

Also known as Mohonk Preserve, the Minnewaska State Park Preserve draws more than 165,000 visitors annually to its 8,000 acres of forests, fields, and mountain ridges laced with streams and ponds. As the biggest nonprofit nature preserve in the state of New York, Mohonk Preserve offers an extensive trail system for beginning and experienced hikers.

To hike in the preserve, you need to purchase a day pass or membership at the Visitor Center or trailhead. These fees help fund maintenance of the park.

Mohonk Preserve boasts a broad range of trails, from the J&S Grafton Sensory Trail, an easy quarter-mile loop with butterfly garden around the Visitor Center, to High Peters Kill, a strenuous seven-mile hike with spectacular ridge views.