September

Unless otherwise noted, public programs are free to Mohonk Preserve members and $10 for non-members (includes a day pass which allows hiking access to Preserve lands for a full day, sunrise to sunset, and can be credited for up to two weeks towards a membership).  For most programs, children 12 and under are free. 

Saturdays and Sundays in September, 11am and 1pm (weather permitting).  Interpretive Program “How Did the Rope Get Up There?  History and Practice of Gunks Rock Climbing” and “Ecology and People of the Shawangunks, Yesterday and Today.”
No reservations required. Meet at the Trapps Bridge. These programs will last approximately 20 minutes and involve a gentle stroll.  They will be offered by Mohonk Preserve Rangers who are experienced rock climbers. The interpretive programs are free but participants must either be Mohonk Preserve members or purchase a $10 day pass to access the land.  Children must always be accompanied by an adult.

Saturday, September 11th, 11am-1:30pm.  Monarchs, Magic, and More!
Enjoy a stroll through our historic fields as you search for butterflies with Maraleen Manos-Jones, butterfly expert and author. Discover monarchs, caterpillars, and perhaps even a chrysalis! Hear stories and myths about butterflies and have your questions answered. Children ages 7 and up are welcome. Children must always be accompanied by an adult. This program includes an easy, 2-mile hike. There will be an engaging indoor option in case of rain. Reservations are required; sign up begins 8/1. Call 845-255-0919 for reservations and meeting location.

Sunday, September 12th, 9:30am-1pm. Stories of Spring Farm: A Historic Walking Tour.
Did you ever wonder about the origin of the buildings and fields of Spring Farm? Join Bob Larsen, Mohonk Preserve Cultural Historian, and Preserve Volunteer Gardeners and learn about the time when this farm provided milk, maple sugar, vegetables, and beef for the Mohonk Mountain House. The walk will end at the Slingerland Pavilion where homemade refreshments await. All food will be prepared with “old-time” ingredients representing the crops grown by early inhabitants of the area. Children ages 15 and up are welcome. Children must always be accompanied by an adult. This program includes an easy, 2-mile hike. Reservations are required; sign up begins 8/30. Call 845-255-0919 for reservations and meeting location.
 

Sunday, September 12th, 9:30am-4pm.  Hudson River Valley Ramble: Millbrook Mountain.
Join John Upton, Mohonk Preserve Volunteer and avid hiker, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Wallkill Valley as you hike along the top of the Ridge. Children ages 15 and up are welcome. Children must always be accompanied by an adult. This program includes a strenuous, 9-mile hike. Reservations are required; sign up begins 8/30. Call 845-255-0919 for reservations and meeting location.

Friday, September 17th, 10am-12noon.  Toddlers on the Trail – Trees of the Shawangunks. 
Join Dana Rudikoff, Volunteer Hike Leader, and explore different forest habitats.  The group may look for Monarch Butterflies flying south in the field along the way.  Bring water and snacks. Please leave your pets at home. Jogging strollers are not appropriate; little ones in carriers are always welcomed. Children ages 2 to 6 are welcome. Children must always be accompanied by an adult. This program includes a 1.5-mile hike, and moves at a toddler’s pace. Reservations are required. Call Dana at 845-626-4253 or email her at dana_rudikoff@yahoo.com to reserve a spot. There is a 15 parent limit. Participants should meet at the Mohonk Preserve Spring Farm Trailhead. It is advised to come early to secure a parking spot.

Saturday, September 18th, 1:30-3pm.  Land Art for Families.
Join Mary Leary, artist and Mohonk Preserve Camp Educator for this unique hands-on program. Inspired by the work of Andy Goldsworthy, “Land Art” has quickly become a favorite component of our popular summer camp programs. Using only natural materials gathered outdoors, create your own inspiring art. Bring a camera to capture your work. Children ages 5 and up are welcome. Children must always be accompanied by an adult. This program includes an easy, 1-mile hike. Reservations are required; sign up begins 9/1. Call 845-255-0919 for reservations and meeting location.
 

Saturday, September 25th (Raindate: Sunday September, 26th), 9am-12noon.  Hawk Migration Workshop.
Join Tom Sarro, Mohonk Preserve Research Associate, for an indoor presentation introducing distinguishing characteristics of migrating species in flight. Then, enjoy a short hike to the “Hawk Watch” where experts will help you identify the hawks, ospreys, and other birds that ride the thermal air currents above the Shawangunk Ridge. Children ages 12 and up are welcome. Children must always be accompanied by an adult. This program includes a moderate, 2-mile hike, with a short, steep, uphill scramble. Reservations are required; sign up begins 8/30. Call 845-255-0919 for reservations and meeting location. The program fee per person is $18 for Preserve members and $28 for non-members. (There will be no refunds after September 17th).
 
Sunday, September 26th, Checkin begins at 8am and the race starts at 9am sharp. Annual Pfalz Point Trail Challenge Ten Mile Fundraising Run.
This is a once-a-year chance to participate in an organized running event on the Preserve’s scenic footpaths and historic carriage roads. After the race, enjoy a chili lunch at the Slingerland Pavilion. Registration must be postmarked by September 17th. Entry forms are available on our race page. Register early. The race is limited to 300 runners. NO RACE DAY REGISTRATION. The program fee is $25 for Preserve members and $35 for non-members.