Cost: $20 per hiker

9:00 AM - Arrive at Minnewaska State Park Gate (opens at 9am)

9:15 AM - Start hike to Sam’s Point

1:45 PM - Estimated hike end time

2:15 PM - Food and drinks at The Horse and Sulky

Hiking

Sam's Point Loop is a beautiful hike that offers waterfalls, one of a few ridge-top dwarf pine barrens in the world, lakeside views, dense forests, and cliffs that open up to spectacular views. This area is considered a National Natural Landmark and was labeled as one of "Earth's Last Great Places" by the Nature Conservancy. This is a long and demanding hike, but totally worth it! Dogs are allowed on this trail but must be kept on leash. Note: The parking lot opens at 9am and requires a $10 entrance fee.

Scenery: 10/10

Difficulty: 8/10

Distance: 8.5 miles

Estimated hike time: 4.5 hours (including pictures and breaks)

Location: Cragsmoor, New York

Trailhead GPS coordinates: 41.67015, -74.36167 (plug into GPS as address)

Social

The Horse and Sulky is a 20 minute drive south from Sam’s Point trailhead (on the way back to Westchester County). This is a fun pub with a casual environment and great food and drinks. A perfect spot for post-hike grub.

As stated in their website, “Welcome to the Horse & Sulky Pub and Grill, one of the finest casual eateries in the Hudson Valley. David Dewhirst’s (chef/co-owner) education from Johnson & Wales coupled with over 15 years of New York City restaurant exposure, has contributed greatly in developing a casual menu with reasonable prices for all to enjoy! All menu items are brought from the finest markets around and prepared fresh daily”

Address: 809 Bloomingburg Road, Bloomingburg, NY 12721

Registration: Submit the electronic form named “Registration” under “Hiking Socials” above.