Rocking the 'Gunks!

The brilliant white profile of The Shawangunk Ridge is widely recognized as one of the finest climbing centers in the US, considered by many to be the Yosemite of the East.

Known in climbing circles simply as “The Gunks”, this world-famous 12-mile long escarpment is home to more than 1200 ascent routes which entice climbers with colorful names like “Space Invaders”, “Twilight Zone”, and “Pumping Pygmies”.

Many of the classic routes first established by Fritz Weissner and Hans Kraus have become legendary in rock climbing circles; for some, negotiating epic 'Gunks ascents like High Exposure, Gargoyle, and Gelsa are practically a right of passage.

Flocking to the 'Gunks in record numbers to enjoy related activities like bouldering, mountain biking, and hang-gliding, climbers of every skill level are invited to experience the Shawangunk ridge for themselves.

Not only a haven for Climbers, the Shawangunk Ridge boasts thousands of acres of unspoiled natural beauty and scenic views for all; even a comfortable stroll through Minnewaska’s carriageways or a quick stop at one of many roadside overlooks can be a richly rewarding experience!

You won't believe just how affordable a hotel in the Gunks can be!  Located just minutes from the ridge, the Hudson Valley Resort and Spa offers climbers and their families resort accommodations at “rock bottom” prices.

With a European health spa, fitness center, game room, tennis & basketball courts on site, the Hudson Valley Resort truly has something for everyone. Give us a call today, and we'll help make the most of your stay.

7 Reasons Why You Need to Visit the Shawangunk Mountains This Summer

Just 90 miles from the hustle and bustle of New York City lies a serene, enchanting landscape of unsurpassed natural beauty which beckons visitors to slow down and indulge their senses with an unforgettable visit to one of the world’s Last Great Places.

Here are seven reasons why you need to visit the Shawangunk Mountains this Summer, and one great incentive to get your family on the road!

1. Jaw Dropping Natural Beauty 

The Shawangunks feature crystal clear sky-lakes, unbelievable waterfalls, glistening rock ledges, and miles-wide panoramic views. Visitors to the popular Minnewaska State Park can get a taste of it all with a peaceful stroll along well managed carriageways.

2. Unbeatable Outdoor Adventures

A hike around nearby Sam’s Point Preserve will reward visitors with an unforgettable crawl through unique “ice cave” caverns, a refreshing stop atop a spectacular 180 foot waterfall, unparallelled scenic views of the southern Catskill Mountains, and a tour around a glacial carved sky-lake.

3. Wonderful Wineries

The Shawangunks offer ideal conditions for a number of varietal vineyards, and local wineries have been producing extraordinary vino for centuries. The Shawangunk Wine Trail offers visitors a taste of the region’s best with stops at fourteen wineries offering demonstrations, cellar tours and wine-tastings year-round!

4. Life on the Edge

The impressive ledges of the Shawangunk Ridge have long been regarded as the Northeast technical rock climbing Mecca, and scaling the world-famous routes  throughout "The Gunks" remains a rite of passage for daring climbers everywhere.

5. Historic Houses

A trip to the Shawangunks region offers visitors an opportunity to step back in time and explore the Oldest Street in America.  An avenue of centuries old colonial buildings which have remained virtually unchanged since before the country was born, Historic Huguenot Street offers visitors tours and special events throughout the year which are sure to engage the imagination.

6. Hands-on Agriculture

Want to take part in a true farm-to-table experience? The Shawangunks region features dozens of family-friendly farms offering pick-your-own fruits and vegetables throughout the season. Nearby Kelder’s Farm invites guests into their fields to hand harvest everything from fresh greens, corn, potatoes and beans to fresh herbs, raspberries and apples. It honestly doesn’t get any fresher than this!

7. Delectable Dining

With the world-renowned Culinary Institute of America in the Shawangunk’s backyard and local growers offering the best fresh produce, meats and cheeses, it’s no surprise that the region boasts some of the most delicious and innovative eateries in the north-east. Offering a surprising array of world cuisines, the funky Shawangunks town of New Paltz has something for everyone, with an emphasis on farm-fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

You’ll find a hundred more reasons to return again and again when you explore the Shawangunks this summer, and we're offering an unbeatable $99 midweek room-only rate so you can stay in the center of it all!

Join us in the heart of the Shawangunk Mountains this summer and we’ll help you make the most of your stay, so call or click today to start planning your upstate family getaway!