Undercliff–Overcliff Loop: a carriage-road day in the Gunks

Why this route feels different

Mohonk Preserve describes its Undercliff–Overcliff loop as a carriage-road outing with views toward the Wallkill Valley and Catskills. The Preserve also provides an approach through the East Trapps Connector. Those different starting descriptions matter when comparing saved tracks or deciding how far the group wants to walk.

Source: Mohonk Preserve: suggested hikes

Choose the full loop or a turnaround

Use the current printable route map to measure the outing from your intended trailhead. If the group is uncertain about a full circuit, set a turnaround on one carriage road before starting. A wide surface can make conversation easier, but distance still accumulates; leave enough energy for the return rather than judging the whole trip by its first few minutes.

Keep access and navigation together

Review Preserve admission and any trail notices, then save the map alongside the entrance name. Do not use a neighboring property’s visitor information as a substitute. If another path tempts you away from the carriage-road plan, stop and identify where it goes before changing the route. Treat an extension as a new decision.

Source: Mohonk Preserve: plan your visit

What to include in your trail post

State whether you walked the full loop, used a connector or turned back. That makes your recorded mileage useful to someone comparing routes. Photograph the experience without blocking other users, then connect the post to the New Paltz or Gardiner planning guide so friends can build their own outing around it.