New Paltz, NY: Lake Loop Trail and Waterfall Hike

If you’re looking for a one-day escape that combines natural beauty with the ease of a leisurely hike, this guided tour in New Paltz might just be what you need. We’ve reviewed the experience offered by Active Lifestyle Tours, which promises a duo of scenic walks—one around a tranquil lake and another to a spectacular waterfall. Perfect for anyone craving outdoor time without strenuous climbs, this tour is appealing for families, casual hikers, or anyone eager to enjoy the Catskills’ quiet charms.

What we really like about this experience is its flexibility and balance: a gentle 2-mile lake loop offers peaceful scenery and photo opportunities, while the shorter waterfall trail provides a burst of awe-inspiring natural power. Plus, the option to include transportation and local tastings broadens its appeal, making it a well-rounded day out. One potential consideration is the weather—bad weather can dampen the experience, especially on outdoor sections—so packing accordingly is wise. This tour suits those who appreciate scenic landscapes, easy walks, and a touch of local flavor.

Key Points

• Easy and Moderate Trails: Suitable for all skill levels, with flat and hilly sections.
• Stunning Views: The lakeside scenery and waterfalls are highlights worth capturing.
• Flexible Options: Add transportation or a winery visit for a full day tailored to your preferences.
• Private Group: Intimate experience with a dedicated guide.
• Convenient Meeting Point: Located at Minnewaska State Park’s upper lake parking lot.
• Full Refund Policy: Cancel 24 hours in advance for a complete refund, offering peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour, arranged by Active Lifestyle Tours, offers a taste of the Catskills’ natural beauty without requiring serious hiking experience. The focus is on scenic leisure—a good choice if you want a relaxed, inspiring day amid nature. You’ll start at Minnewaska State Park, one of the area’s top outdoor destinations, with a meeting point that’s easy to access.

The highlight is the 2-mile lake loop trail, which is described as easy to moderate, flat to hilly, and taking about 1 to 1.5 hours. This trail is perfect for stretching your legs without pushing yourself too hard, and you’ll be rewarded with views of a peaceful lake, surrounded by lush trees and open skies. Many hikers find the wide trail ideal for casual strolling or photography, capturing the shimmering water and surrounding greenery.

Following this, the waterfall hike offers a quick 30-40 minute round-trip trek. It’s a “down-and-back” trail, meaning no tricky navigation—just a straightforward walk to marvel at cascading water. The waterfall itself is often described as stunning, and the photos you’ll take are likely to be a highlight of your day. According to reviews, visitors find the waterfall “breathtaking,” making it well worth the short detour.

The Value of Flexibility and Local Flavors

One of the best parts of this experience is the ability to tailor it to your preferences. You can opt to include transportation, removing the hassle of driving and parking, especially if you’re coming from afar or prefer not to worry about logistics. Plus, after your hike, you can choose to visit a local farm-style winery, brewery, or distillery. Imagine sipping wine or beer amid scenic countryside—this offers an authentic touch that elevates the day beyond just walking.

The tour’s “reserve now, pay later” policy means you can hold your spot without immediate commitment, which is helpful for flexible travel planning. The private group setting ensures personalized attention, making the experience feel more intimate.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting at the upper lake parking lot of Minnewaska State Park, you’ll meet your guide and gather any final instructions. The meeting point is conveniently located near the welcome center, making it easy to find. If needed, the tour provider offers hotel or home pickup, which can be a real time-saver.

Once underway, the lake loop begins. The trail’s easy pace lets you soak in the scenery—trees reflecting in the water, birds, perhaps even a glimpse of wildlife. We loved the way this walk invites a casual appreciation of nature, with enough variety to keep things interesting without demanding strenuous effort. Many reviews mention how the wide trail makes this accessible to all ages and fitness levels.

Next, you’ll head to the waterfall trailhead for the shorter hike. The trail is well-marked and takes roughly 30-40 minutes round-trip, making it a perfect quick adventure to finish your outdoor portion. The waterfall is often described as breathtaking, with many people noting how stunning the cascading water is, especially after a rain or in the early morning light.

Authentic and Relaxed Experience

Many visitors comment on the relaxed pace of this tour and how the guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere where questions are encouraged, and you can take your time for photos or just soaking in the views.

The optional lunch at a winery or brewery is a highlight for those wanting to extend the outing. The setting is typically charming, with farm-style vibes and local produce, making it a genuine taste of the Catskills’ countryside. Many reviews highlight how this added element rounds out a day of outdoor leisure, providing a delightful finish.

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Practical Aspects: What You Need to Know

• Duration: About 4 hours, including hiking and optional tastings.
• Meeting Point: Minnewaska State Park, upper lake parking lot.
• Transport: Available as an add-on—perfect if you prefer not to drive.
• Weather: Check the forecast; poor weather can impact trail conditions and views.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, water, camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and sunglasses.
• Group Size: Private group—more personalized experience.
• Cancellation Policy: Cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The hike itself is straightforward: the lakeside loop offers flat to hilly terrain, typically taking about 1 to 1.5 hours, making it suitable for most visitors. The waterfall walk is shorter but equally rewarding, with many reviews praising how “breathtaking” the waterfall is, adding a splash of excitement to the day.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

This experience offers excellent value for those seeking a low-key yet visually stunning day in nature. You get the chance to walk along calm waters, witness a beautiful waterfall, and enjoy the serenity of the Catskills—all in a manageable, well-organized package. The optional extras, like transportation and local tastings, make it adaptable to different preferences and schedules.

Most importantly, the focus remains on authentic scenery and a relaxed pace, rather than strenuous activity or crowded tourist spots. If you love natural beauty, easy trails, and a touch of local flavor, this tour is worth considering.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal if you’re looking for a gentle outdoor experience that’s accessible yet memorable. Families with children, older travelers, or casual hikers will find it manageable and rewarding. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to escape the city for a day without spending hours on difficult trails. The option to include tastings and transportation makes it suitable for those who prefer convenience and a bit of local flavor.

If you’re after stunning views without the sweat, this tour hits the mark. Just be sure to check the weather forecast and bring along suitable gear, and you’ll have a lovely day exploring the natural beauty of New York’s Catskills.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the hike suitable for children or beginners?
Yes, the lake loop is described as easy to moderate with a flat to hilly terrain, making it suitable for most ages and fitness levels. The waterfall hike is shorter and quick, perfect for a family outing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is transportation included?
Transportation can be added as an option, making the day more convenient especially if you’re staying outside the park or prefer not to drive.

What should I bring on the hike?
Comfortable shoes, water, a camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and sunglasses are recommended to ensure a comfortable outdoor experience.

Where exactly do we meet?
The meeting point is at Minnewaska State Park’s upper lake parking lot, near the welcome center. The tour provider can also arrange pickup at your hotel or home.

How long does each part of the hike take?
The lake loop takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, while the waterfall hike is a quick 30-40 minutes round-trip. The total activity duration, including optional tastings, is around 4 hours.

Are the trails crowded?
Since this is a private tour with a small group, you won’t have to worry about crowds impeding your view or photo opportunities.

Final Thoughts

This guided hike in New Paltz offers a wonderful way to experience the scenic outdoors of the Catskills with minimal fuss. The combination of a peaceful lakeside walk and a breathtaking waterfall ensures a memorable outing. The optional extras add flexibility, catering to those who want a more indulgent or convenient day. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer relaxed, manageable hikes paired with authentic natural views and local flavors.

If your ideal day includes stunning scenery, gentle trails, and a chance to unwind in nature’s quiet beauty, this tour could be a perfect fit. Just bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and a sense of curiosity—you’ll come away with plenty of memorable images and stories.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby