Located just 90 miles north of New York City, Lake Mohonk offers an immersive lakeside experience rooted in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and luxury resort tradition. Set in New York’s Hudson Valley near the Shawangunk Ridge, this glacial lake is the centerpiece of the legendary Mohonk Mountain House—an 1869-built Victorian castle resort and National Historic Landmark.
The Mohonk Mountain House commands attention with its cliffside perch, panoramic lake views, and access to over 85 miles of wooded hiking trails. Popular routes include the adrenaline-boosting Lemon Squeeze and the Sky Top Tower Trail, which rewards hikers with expansive vistas across the Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountains. The lake itself invites warm-season adventures like kayaking, row boating, paddleboarding, and guided freshwater swimming sessions from a dedicated dock.
Winter turns Lake Mohonk into a snow-season destination, complete with ice skating on the resort’s rink, groomed trails for cross-country skiing, and classic snow tubing runs that appeal to families and solo adventurers alike.
The surrounding region complements the outdoor appeal with rich cultural and agritourism experiences. Notable attractions include Robibero Family Vineyards—known for estate-grown Cabernet Franc and Traminette—Historic Huguenot Street, a National Historic Landmark District in New Paltz, and the acclaimed Woodstock Farm Sanctuary. Guests often pair nature excursions with visits to local art galleries, antique shops, and farm markets throughout Ulster County.
Mohonk’s year-round event calendar adds further dimension: Mystery Weekend, the Summer Festival of the Arts, Mindfulness in Minutes workshops, and holiday celebrations like New Year’s Eve galas—all designed to engage guests of all interests. Golfers will appreciate the historic nine-hole Mohonk Golf Course, while culinary travelers can enjoy seasonal, farm-driven menus at The Dining Room at Mohonk or explore nearby favorites such as A Tavola Trattoria and Garvan’s Gastropub.
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Fly Fishing
- Freshwater Fishing
- Cross-country Skiing
Nearby amenities
Start your weekend at the legendary Mohonk Mountain House, a Victorian castle resort perched beside the lake. Upon arrival, check into your elegant room and take in sweeping views of the lake or Shawangunk Ridge. Drop your bags, then head straight to the Boat Dock, where you can rent classic wooden rowboats or paddle boats and glide across Lake Mohonk’s calm, glacial waters.
Afterward, stop by the Mohonk Gift Shop for trail maps, gear, or local artisan goods before setting off on a hike. Choose a leisurely walk to Sky Top Tower for panoramic views or tackle the adventurous Lemon Squeeze trail for rock scrambles and thrilling ledges.
For lunch, retreat to the Main Dining Room at Mohonk Mountain House for a farm-to-table feast overlooking the lake. Relax in the afternoon with spa treatments or a quiet moment by the fireplace.
In the evening, enjoy a casual yet elegant dinner at the Carriage Lounge, where craft cocktails and seasonal fare pair perfectly with the day’s memories.
On Sunday, explore more than 85 miles of trails, or book a massage at the award-winning Mohonk Spa. Before heading home, enjoy a lakeside brunch and one last stroll around the water. From outdoor adventure to luxurious downtime, a weekend at Lake Mohonk perfectly balances nature’s beauty with modern comfort.
Marinas on Lake Mohonk
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Mohonk has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Mohonk Mountain House is a National Historic Landmark and one of America’s most iconic resort destinations. Established in 1869, this Victorian castle-style resort is perched beside the glacial Lake Mohonk in New York’s Hudson Valley. It offers over 85 miles of hiking trails, seasonal lake activities, a renowned spa, and year-round events—all wrapped in timeless charm. The resort combines luxurious accommodations with breathtaking natural surroundings, making it a favorite for romantic getaways, wellness retreats, and family vacations.
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Yes! The resort offers several dining experiences. The Main Dining Room serves elegant, farm-to-table meals with sweeping views of the lake, while the Carriage Lounge offers a more casual atmosphere with craft cocktails and small plates. Guests can also enjoy afternoon tea and seasonal outdoor dining experiences.
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Yes. While casual attire is welcome during the day, business casual is recommended for dinner in the Main Dining Room. This typically means collared shirts for men and equivalent attire for women. More relaxed dress is allowed in other resort areas.
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Yes, Mohonk Mountain House was featured in an episode of Showtime’s Billions. Its distinctive architecture and natural setting have made it a filming location for several TV shows and movies.
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Mohonk Mountain House is located in New Paltz, New York. Other nearby towns include High Falls, Gardiner, Stone Ridge, and Rosendale, all offering charming shops, dining, and Hudson Valley hospitality.
