Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Mohonk Preserve, located in the Shawangunk Ridge of New York State, is considered the largest private nature preserve in New York, offering a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The preserve spans over 8,000 acres and serves as a critical corridor for wildlife, featuring a range of habitats including forests, cliffs, streams, and fields. Its geology is notable for the striking Shawangunk Conglomerate, known informally as 'The Gunks,' which attracts climbers from around the world. The preserve's history is rich, initially protected by the Smiley family to ensure conservation of the pristine landscape. Today, it provides over 80 miles of carriage roads and trails suitable for a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and horseback riding. Mohonk Preserve also plays a key role in scientific research and environmental education, offering insights into research in conservation science. Visitors are drawn by its scenic vistas, the promise of solitude, and the opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural setting.
