I picked Millbrook Mountain for a weekend hike because I wanted something longer, yet busy enough to be safe as a solo hike. It’s also close enough to New Paltz that makes it a perfect half or full-day trip.
Parking fills up fast, especially on weekends, so getting there early is a good idea. I got there right before the parking lots filled up–I ended up being the first car to park in the overflow lot. I ended up being a bit confused by the signage in the preserve, so I accidentally parked about 1.5 miles away from the trailhead. Don’t make the same mistake I did, because I ended up having to walk for about half an hour on a very steep gravel path up the mountain to reach the trailhead, which begins at the visitor center.
Distance: ~5 mi (I ended up adding ~3mi)
Elevation gain: ~700 ft (again, I ended up at around 1200 ft)
Type: Loop
Time: AllTrails suggests 2-2.5 hours, but if you’re a fast walker like me, it takes about an hour and a half.
Much of the trail is on the carriage road, a flat, wide gravel path that loops around Lake Minnewaska.
I was a bit disappointed by this, but the views were amazing and made it so worth it. In the first mile or so, there is a large field with great views of the lake, with many benches and picnic areas.
There were people playing frisbee and croquet, having lunch, and biking in that area. It’s very accessible, so even if you have dogs, a stroller, or wheelchair, it’s a nice way to enjoy nature.
After that, you split off by the lake onto the footpath, which leads toward Coxing Kill. This portion was my favorite–while you could no longer see the lake, there were great views almost the whole time, the path was well-maintained, and the fall foliage sealed the deal. Right before the summit, there is a very steep portion made of flat rock, so again, wear sturdy shoes. It can be slippery, especially on a wet day.
The top was beautiful. There were many other people up there, but it’s all flat rock and trees, so there was plenty of space to sit down and eat lunch without being crowded.
The way back down almost immediately led back onto the carriage road. There were more amazing views of Lake Minnewaska, but again, it felt a little disappointing to me, as it was less of a hike and more of a walk. Regardless, it’s beautiful, and so worth it.
Check out our other New York State hiking posts here:
https://www.anationofmoms.com/travel/new-york-hikes
Busy college student and travel enthusiast, Dylan enjoys hiking, biking, and exploring as much as possible.
Feel free to contact the blog with questions: marysa@anationofmoms.com
What a fantastic hike and photos! I haven’t been to Minnewaska State Park yet. I hope to visit it. Millbrook Mountain sounds like a great mix of challenge and scenery, and your tip about the parking and signage is super helpful!
When planning a solo hike, there is definitely more to think about. Good idea to make sure there will be others around but not so crowded it will take away from the experience. If we ever get to Minnewaska State Park we will certainly be careful about where we park to not add in extra walking! The Millbrook Mountain Footpath and Carriage Loop Road looks like a great choice for a scenic hike. But as slow walkers who stop too much for photos, we would likely be several hours!
First, you are a fast walker! Secondly, that gravel path is a typical terrain in Texas, and it is even worse. But the views along the lake and from the higher ground are beautiful. I hope people will learn from your parking mistake.