Are tours suitable for all ages?

Yes, the guided tours are designed to be engaging for all age groups and involve moderate walking.

Is the site accessible for visitors with mobility challenges?

Some trails are accessible, but it's best to contact the site in advance to discuss specific needs.

What is the best time to visit?

Spring and fall offer mild weather and vibrant scenery, ideal for outdoor activities.

Are there amenities on-site?

Yes, facilities include parking, restrooms, and a visitor center with educational materials.

Can we bring food or picnic?

Yes, picnic areas are available for visitors wishing to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.

Is there a cost for the tour?

Pricing varies; check the site for current tour fees and group discounts.

Hiking & Cultural Tour at Manitoga with Student Groups | Guided Tour | Hiking

Manitoga, located in the scenic landscapes of New York, offers a compelling blend of art, design, and natural beauty. Known as the home and studio of renowned designer Russel Wright, Manitoga is a hub for those seeking a deeper connection with nature and cultural history. The centerpiece of this experience is a guided tour through the Sculpture Garden and hiking along the trails that meander through the landscape, culminating at Dragon Rock, a striking architectural formation carved by nature itself. This geological marvel features an imposing granite arch that commands attention, offering stunning views and photo opportunities.

What makes Manitoga particularly special is its commitment to sustainable design and preservation. The property showcases innovative architecture integrated seamlessly into the environment, providing visitors with both aesthetic inspiration and a sense of ecological responsibility. The "All the Light and Shadow" art installation is a highlight, blending local craftsmanship with environmental themes. It invites curious minds to appreciate the intersection of art, nature, and sustainability.

Ideal for student groups, this experience combines educational value with outdoor activity, making it perfect for school outings, educational trips, or youth groups. The accessible trails offer a moderate hike, suitable for most physical levels, and the immersive environment prompts reflection on the relationship between human creativity and the natural world.

Visiting Manitoga not only enriches understanding of American design history but also offers a refreshing outdoor adventure amid inspiring scenery. Whether you're seeking a cultural deep dive or a scenic hike in a protected natural setting, Manitoga stands out as a meaningful destination for groups eager to engage with art and nature hand-in-hand.

About Manitoga

Manitoga, located in Garrison, New York, is the home and studio of designer Russel Wright and an immersive landscape designed around Dragon Rock. The site preserves Wright’s mid‑20th‑century architecture, gardens, and woodland while offering guided public and private tours that explore the House and Studio, the Russel & Mary Wright Design Gallery, and the surrounding trails. Manitoga produces a range of experiences for visitors of all ages, including seasonal walking tours, evening sunset tours, family drawing programs, student group visits, collector events, and special temporary installations such as the 2025 Art + Design Installation. Guided hikes at Dragon Rock include moderate trails, scenic overlooks, and the Quarry Pool, connecting design history with natural features. Programs led by site educators and guest curators provide historical context, design insight, and hands‑on creative activities like observational drawing. Manitoga’s private tour options accommodate groups seeking extended 1.5 to 2‑hour visits with focused attention on architecture, landscape, and on‑site exhibitions. Public events range from curated luncheons and presentations to community‑focused free tours for residents. The property also showcases contemporary work at the Russel & Mary Wright Design Gallery, which features rotating exhibitions and artist installations. Manitoga emphasizes the relationship between design, art, and nature through carefully interpreted programs in a protected Hudson Valley setting. Visitors should expect varied terrain and program lengths; advance reservations are recommended for specialized experiences and limited‑capacity events. Audio guides, educational resources, and accessible information support visitor planning, while many programs highlight sustainable local craftsmanship and site conservation practices and preservation.