Land Adventures in the Gunks with Upstate Hiking
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical shape with basic climbing or scrambling experience recommended.
Overview
Discover the thrill of scrambling on the legendary Gunks with Upstate Hiking, where rugged cliffs and scenic views await. Perfect for all skill levels, these guided trips blend adventure with education.
Scramble through the Gunks
4-5 Hours • For hikers looking for a unique adventure exploring Mohonk Preserve
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About This Adventure
Join us for a unique adventure exploring the geology of the Shawangunk Mountains!
Duration
4 - 5 Hours (or custom)
About
Our half-day hikes in the Shawangunk Mountains (Gunks) are typically 4–5 hours long and cover about 4–8 miles of trail, depending on the group and the route selected for the day. The Gunks (particularly Mohonk Preserve) are famous for magical mountain views and challenging rock scrambles, which make for an exciting challenge for those so inclined!
Along the way, you’ll learn about the geology and history of the area, with plenty of spots built in to take in the views and savor the moments (and some snacks!). You’ll get to completely immerse in the hike – as we’ll be getting pictures for you throughout the experience!
Hike Overview
After meeting at the rendezvous point before the hike, we’ll proceed to the trailhead and begin a quick introduction and gear check before taking to the trails. Along the way, we’ll stop to learn about the different rock formations, plant types, the history of the area and more. Throughout the trip, we’ll be getting tons of candid and action shots, as well as some epic posed shots at some of our favorite viewpoints.
Half day hikes in Mohonk Preserve lean towards moderate difficulty, with some optional additional ‘challenges’ along the way – if you’re up for it! Over the years we’ve really finessed how we tune our hikes to the different hikers we have every day – and will adjust the route and pace to the best fit for you and your group. With a maximum group size of 6 and an average of 3-4 per trip, we’ll have plenty of opportunities to work with you individually on your skills and techniques if needed!
What's Included
Sometimes it can feel like there’s a lot to plan when heading out for a hike – luckily, we take care of just about everything, so you can fully enjoy the day. From choosing the best route, finding its best features along the way, and making sure we’ve got everything needed – all you have to do is grab a few things, and get ready for an adventure!
- Trail Guidance with Licensed Guide
- Feedback and improvement of your hiking techniques
- Candid, action and posed photography – you can keep your phone in your pocket!
- Light snacks throughout the hike
- Any parking or trail admission fees
- Bug Spray, rain gear, backpack, if needed
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy footwear
Trail scrambling involves uneven and rocky terrain, so supportive hiking shoes are essential.
Bring plenty of water
Stay hydrated during your ascent to maintain energy and focus.
Check weather conditions
Weather can change rapidly in the Gunks, so plan ahead for safety.
Use appropriate gear
Guides provide safety equipment, but personal harnesses or gloves can enhance your experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Red-tailed hawks
- Eastern gray squirrels
History
The Gunks have hosted climbing since the 1940s, earning recognition as one of America's primary climbing destinations.
Conservation
Upstate Hiking promotes Leave No Trace principles to preserve the area's natural beauty and fragile ecosystems.
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Adventure Hotspots in New York City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Climbing shoes
Good grip and support for rocky scrambles.
Climbing harness
Optional but useful for safer ascents with guides.
Water bottle
Hydration is key on all-day adventures.
Light layer jacket
Prepare for cooler weather or sudden changes.