Gertrude's Nose / Minnewaska Trail — Attraction in Town of Rochester

Gertrude's Nose, located in Kerhonkson, NY, is an absolute five-star gem for outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled within the Shawangunk Mountains, this hiking destination offers a breathtaking blend of rugged trails, panoramic vistas, and unspoiled natural beauty.

The trail leading to Gertrude's Nose is a hiker's dream, winding through lush forests and rocky terrain that keeps you engaged at every step. As you ascend, the anticipation builds, and upon reaching the Nose, the view is nothing short of awe-inspiring. The expansive landscapes stretching across the Hudson Valley create a postcard-perfect scene that rewards the effort put into the climb.

The diversity of flora and fauna along the trail adds to the enchantment, making it not just a hike but a journey through a living, breathing ecosystem. Whether you're an avid photographer capturing the play of light on the cliffs or a nature lover reveling in the tranquility, Gertrude's Nose has something to offer every adventurer.

What sets this destination apart is its accessibility. It welcomes both seasoned hikers seeking a challenge and those newer to the trails, making it an inclusive outdoor experience. The well-marked paths and informative trail markers enhance the overall adventure, ensuring a safe and enjoyable exploration.

In every season, Gertrude's Nose unveils a different facet of its charm – from the vibrant foliage in fall to the serene snow-covered trails in winter. The ever-changing scenery keeps drawing you back, creating a hiking destination that's as rewarding for a solo trek as it is for a family outing.

Whether you're a nature enthusiast, fitness buff, or simply someone looking to escape the urban hustle, Gertrude's Nose earns its five stars with a perfect blend of natural beauty, well-maintained trails, and a sense of serenity that lingers long after the hike is over. It's a testament to the beauty that the Shawangunk Mountains have to offer and an essential stop for anyone craving a memorable outdoor adventure in...

One of the best experience hiking to Gertrude's nose. We went counterclockwise loop to GN. In other words, we went to Patterson's pellet side to GN by following red dot trail. Once we reached GN, we came back through Millbrook mountain side to south of the lake of you consider upper parking lot of lake as your north. Maximum Elevation experienced was close to 1700 feet. Millbrook mountain side is much tougher and slippery at times since water stream running at many places. Make sure you have enough water and food with you in case you decide to eat something on the loop. We met park ranger at GN. He was pretty relaxed at the peak. I would say loop is not that easy so dress accordingly with choice of footwear that supports tough and wet conditions. I used Samsung health app which clearly gave me direction to GN but steps, Elevation and how much calories burned. I would say give yourself at least 5 hours for entire loop. Upper parking lot is much more accommodating than before so many more cars can be parked and new visitor center to welcome you. Minnewaska State Park is constantly improving every year which is a good thing...

Definitely not a light trail if taking the footpaths. Gertrude’s Nose was the not the highlight for me and my wife but rather, the path that led to it. So many natural rock formations, views of the valley, the ravines, the cliff edges, the forest, and to add to the experience the sunset hour we were able to welcome ourselves with.

We took the main lakes’ Carriage Path, to Pattersons Pellet (Easy Walking Trail)…

To Gertrude’s Nose Footpath, around the cliffs’ edges (Potentially challenging incline/declines, but easy travel across rock flats)…

To the Millbrook Mountain Path (Difficult and narrow incline/declines, difficult terrains, and definitely a longer travel (6.5-7 miles))…

Back to the Carriage Path and to the Parking Lot!

We also stopped at the Falls which has a beautiful veiw from above and below!!

Overall, a worth while trip whether you’re walking the paths, or down for a challenging hike! 11/10!! Definitely recommend (we drove 2 hours from Jersey just to do...