Swimming and Waterfalls

On a warm day, there is nothing better than cooling off in one of the sky lakes or chasing waterfalls on the ridge. Lake Minnewaska has a designated swimming area with clear water framed by white cliffs, and Lake Awosting, a bit deeper into the park, is a quieter spot for a swim in a stunning setting.

For waterfalls, Awosting Falls is a short, easy walk from the main Minnewaska lot and drops about 60 feet into a scenic pool. The Coxing area at Mohonk has creeks and smaller falls worth exploring too. Between the lakes and the falls, it is an easy way to spend a hot afternoon close to home.

A few details worth knowing before you go: swimming is only allowed in the designated lifeguarded areas at Lake Minnewaska and Lake Awosting, not at the base of the falls or in the streams. Beaches run mid-June through Labor Day. The $10 Minnewaska parking fee applies, and lots fill early on hot days. No pets at the beaches. Bring water shoes, the lake bottoms are rocky.