Hamilton and Castle Point Loop

This scenic route begins at the Lake Minnewaska Lower Parking Lot and follows wide, well-maintained carriage roads through a mix of open ridgetop terrain and dense hardwood forests. Start by heading southwest toward the Hamilton Point Trail, which gradually climbs along the edge of the escarpment. Around a short distance in, the trail offers expansive views across the Shawangunk Ridge, with occasional glimpses of Lake Minnewaska far below. The path narrows slightly along this stretch, with some mild exposure near cliffside sections. At a signed junction, turn right onto the Castle Point Trail to continue the route. The trail winds upward through pitch pine barrens and scattered blueberry thickets before reaching Castle Point—one of the best viewpoints in Minnewaska State Park. From this high vantage, hikers can take in panoramic vistas of the Hudson Valley and surrounding ridges. Descend eastward on the Castle Point Trail to return toward the lake, eventually linking back to the original path near the trailhead. This route showcases some of the best moderate day hikes in the Hudson Valley with a rewarding mix of ridgetop scenery and forested carriage roads.