This Is Little-Known Lake Is Perfect For Easy Swimming And Hiking In New York

The weather might be a little bit chilly right now, but before anyone knows it, it will be summer again. With that in mind, any outdoor enthusiast worth their salt will soon start to pine for warmer weather and a day on the lake. When it comes to lakes in New York State that provide a mellow, scenic way to spend a day, we think that Lake Minnewaska is at the top of the list. Located inside of Minnewaska State Park Preserve in Kerhonkson, New York, we think that it is one of the best state park lakes in New York. To learn more, keep reading, below.

Lake Minnewaska is located within Minnewaska State Park Preserve and is less than one-half mile long by one-eight mile wide. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in beauty.

The beach at Lake Minnewaska is staffed from between 11:15 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. during the swimming season, which runs between June 17th and Labor Day. Pets are sadly not allowed on the beaches.

The views at both the park and the lake are worth the trip alone.

And then there are the amazing waterfalls! Swimming is not permitted there, naturally, but the waterfalls make for great photos.

Before cooling off in the water, why not take a hike around the park? It's an excellent way to get the blood pumping before a nice dip.

Though visitors can't swim in the winter, they can still take in all the beautiful sights of the park and the (often) frozen lake. Just make sure to bundle up!

Learn more at the visitor center, which is a great place to start the day.

Lake Minnewaska at Minnewaska State Park Preserve in Kerhonkson, New York is one of the best destinations in New York for hiking, swimming, and just hanging out. It's worth traveling from any point in New York to see, so start planning that trip today.

If you are searching for more New York adventures, why not check out this hands-on science museum — a massive museum that highlights a good portion of Western New York's history and has all sorts of fun interactive exhibitions? And, for those looking for a place to stay in the area, we recommend Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester Downtown.