Down along New York’s Shawangunk Ridge, you can discover all sorts of state parks and outdoor attractions that will give the adventure of a lifetime. Covering more than 8,000-acres of land in this scenic region of the Empire State, the Mohonk Preserve is the ultimate playground for anyone who loves to go exploring. Made up of everything from famous cliffs that you’ll want to climb to waterfalls that you won’t be able to resist chasing, today it’s time to see how this one loop trail inside the preserve will lead you to one of the most refreshing swimming holes. The Split Rock swimming hole in New York is one to remember!

Tucked away just outside of New Paltz, you can find all sorts of jaw-dropping trails inside the Mohonk Preserve.
Douglas Palmer/Flickr
When the weather is getting hot and you're ready to set your sights on breathtaking natural wonders, there's no better trail to hike along than the Coxing Trail.
Karen DeNike/AllTrails
From the Coxing Trail Parking Lot, all it takes is a quick hike to reach Split Rock Hole - an emerald pool of water that's absolutely refreshing to take a swim in. If you're looking for waterfalls where you can swim, you've found one!
fontmichelle/Flickr

Related Stories

Enjoy Cool, Crisp Water At This High Elevation Lake In New York

Enjoy Cool, Crisp Water At This High Elevation Lake In New York

 These 20 Gorgeous Lakes In New York Are Demanding Your Attention

These 20 Gorgeous Lakes In New York Are Demanding Your Attention

 Watch The Sunset At Smith Point County Park, A Unique South-Facing Beach In New York

Watch The Sunset At Smith Point County Park, A Unique South-Facing Beach In New York
Nestled between formations, a nearly 15-foot-tall waterfall flows down into this split in the rocks.
Louetta/TripAdvisor
Creating a less than 10-foot-deep chasm for you to swim through, you'll be able to see straight down beneath you as these crisp mountain waters are crystal clear.
WhatsAllThisThen/Flickr
Even featuring a shallow pool just downstream from the waterfall where younger adventurers can wade in the water, this secluded swimming hole will leave you in awe.
Bruce Faling/Flickr
After hiking along the Coxing Trail and making your way up Millbrook Mountain, there's no better way to end the day than by going for a swim at Split Rock swimming hole in New York.
Paul Comstock/Flickr
While you can easily make the quick walk from the Coxing Trailhead Parking Lot to Split Rock Hole, you can also make a day out of this by hiking out the full loop. In total, the full Coxing Trail loop is more than 5-miles long and takes you up Millbrook Mountain, an adventure that takes you by all sorts of scenic wonders. If not, you're more than welcome to enjoy a quick stroll through the woods where you'll pass by picnic areas and eventually reach the bridge just before Split Rock Hole.

As you can see, Split Rock Hole is one of the best waterfall swimming holes in New York. What are you waiting for? Plan your trip to this incredible spot today!

If you’re ready for more warm-weather adventures, check out Soak In The Best Views In The Hudson Valley At This Stunning State Park.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

More About Split Rock Swimming Hole In New York

Christy Articola | May 05, 2022

Is swimming at Split Rock swimming hole in New York safe?

Of course, there are no lifeguards on duty here, and you should never swim alone. However, this is a safe place to swim. Just watch your step getting in and out of the water because sometimes the rocks can be slippery.

Is Mohonk Preserve part of Mohonk Mountain House? 

Mohonk Preserve is owned by the Smiley Family; they also own the Mohonk Mountain House. However, you can only use the property of Mohonk Mountain House if you are a guest of the resort. Mohonk Preserve is open to the public, but you will have to pay a day-use fee to enjoy its 8,000 acres, 70 miles of carriage roads, and 40 miles of trails. Both properties are designated as National Historic Landmarks.

What should I bring when I visit Split Rock swimming hole?

Bring your swimsuit and a towel. There are no changing rooms here so you'll have to come prepared. You also may want to bring some water and a snack, but remember - you must pack out what you brought in. Don't leave any litter behind for others to pick up! The cleanliness of Mohonk Preserve is everyone's responsibility.

Also, there are so many amazing views here, so you'll want to bring a camera! Sturdy shoes are also wise anytime you go hiking. Enjoy!

What else is there to do in this area?

There are many fun things to do in the New Paltz area. This area is most known for hiking, but that isn't all there is to do. If you like history, you could visit historic Huguenot Street to learn about the early European settlers who came to this area in the 1700s. If that doesn't interest you there are many wineries, farms, and orchards to explore near here. For art lovers, the free Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art would be a great way to spend an afternoon.

Related Articles

Explore New York

Featured Addresses
807 Clove Rd, Gardiner, NY 12525, USA