Skip to Content

Exploring Lake Awosting: Swimming, Hiking, and More!

Exploring Lake Awosting: Swimming, Hiking, and More!

The Lake Awosting is a hidden gem in the town of Chester, New York. The preserve offers many activities for visitors, including swimming, hiking, and picnicking.

There are several different ways to access the preserve, including by car, bike, or foot. The best way to experience the beauty of the lake is by swimming in it!

The water is clean and clear with a sandy bottom. There are also lifeguards on duty during the summer months. Hiking is another popular activity at the preserve. There are several different trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels.

The picnic area is a great place to relax and enjoy a meal with family and friends. There are also plenty of opportunities for bird watching at the preserve. Whether you’re looking for a place to swim, hike, or relax, the Lake Awosting Preserve is sure to please!

What type of activities can you do at Lake Awosting Preserve?

Hike around Lake Minnewaska

At Lake Awosting Preserve, visitors can enjoy various activities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, and bird watching. Those looking for an easy hike can take the main trail around the lake, while those wishing to explore further can choose from more challenging trails. There is no main road leading to the trails, so visitors must park in the main lot and then walk to them.

Check out Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls is the perfect spot for a place to cool off and have some fun in the water. You can swim in the refreshing pool at the base of the falls or take a hike to the top for a stunning view. Just be sure to bring your swimsuit and sunscreen!

Take a swim in Lake Minnewaska.

Looking to cool off on a hot summer day? Then take a dip in Lake Minnewaska, located within the Lake Awosting Preserve. The refreshing water is perfect for a quick swim before heading back out on the trails. Just be sure to follow the posted rules and regulations, such as not swimming alone and staying within the designated swim area.

Go kayaking and boating.

The Lake Awosting Preserve is a great place to enjoy many different types of activities. You can go swimming, hiking, parking, kayaking, or boating. The lake offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Have a picnic

At Lake Awosting Preserve, picnicking is one of the activities visitors can enjoy. Visitors should turn left at the southern parking lot to get to this area and follow the road upward. There is a large field overlooking the lake where people can have a picnic and enjoy the scenic views.

Go mountain biking

Mountain biking provides a great way to exercise and explore different parts of the Lake Awosting Preserve. It can be used to access off-limits to hikers, allowing riders to gain access to some of the Park’s best views and scenery. Furthermore, mountain bikers have the advantage of being able to traverse deeper into the Park than would otherwise be possible on foot.

Check out nearby parks.

Lake Awosting Preserve is close to other parks, such as Lake Minnewaska State Park. Nearby parks include Bear Mountain State Park and Hillman Forest, which offer visitors a variety of activities like hiking, fishing, mountain biking, swimming, and more. C. Hudson Thompson Memorial Park is also nearby and features hiking trails and a fishing pond popular with families.

Lake Awosting

What are some safety tips and guidelines for swimming, hiking, etc.?

Wear appropriate clothing and safety gear

People planning to visit Lake Awosting Preserve should wear appropriate clothing and safety gear for swimming, hiking, and related activities. This includes sunscreen, water shoes or boots, a sun hat, insect repellent, Salomon or Randy Sun water-repellent socks for lengthy hikes or trail running sessions, trekking poles for extra support during long hikes, and snow socks instead of tire chains when driving in the snow.

Check the weather conditions before you begin.

Extreme weather conditions can make swimming, hiking, and parking more dangerous and increase the chance of injury or even death. It is essential to check the weather conditions before beginning an outdoor activity to ensure safety. Furthermore, checking the weather can help to determine what type of clothing and gear is necessary for the activity.

Bring necessary supplies

It is always important to be prepared when spending time outdoors. Always bring all the necessary supplies when swimming, hiking, or engaging in any other activity at the Lake Awosting Preserve. This includes plenty of water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit. It is also essential to wear the proper clothing and footwear for the activity you will be engaged in.

Inform someone of your destination, route, and expected time of return before you leave.

Individuals need to inform someone of their destination, route, and expected time of return before leaving to ensure that they know where they are going and when they plan on returning. Knowing this information can help alleviate any worries or concerns if the person does not return by their expected time and provide an opportunity for assistance if needed. In addition, it can help ensure a safe and enjoyable journey so that people can explore new destinations without worrying about potential issues.

Stay on designated trails and paths.

It is crucial to stay on designated trails and paths when swimming, hiking, or doing any other activities in the Lake Awosting Preserve. This helps to protect the natural environment and also ensures your safety. There are many hazards in the wilderness, so it is vital to be aware of your surroundings and stay on marked trails.

Be aware of your surroundings.

Awareness of one’s surroundings is an important safety measure for anyone exploring a new area. By familiarizing themselves with their surroundings, people can avoid getting lost, encountering hazardous conditions, and taking wrong turns. Awareness of one’s environment also allows one to spot potential dangers and prepare accordingly. Additionally, being mindful of the terrain can result in a more enjoyable experience as it opens up opportunities for discovery, such as new trails or unique scenery.

Follow the rules and regulations.

It is essential to follow the rules and regulations when swimming, hiking, etc., to ensure safety and minimize risks of injury or death. Following the safety guidelines outlined by the Lake Awosting Preserve will help ensure that everyone can enjoy these activities without fear of harm.

Girlfriend traveler with backpacks went hiking in the woods.

FAQs

Where can you swim at Lake Minnewaska?

There are a few different places that you can swim at Lake Minnewaska. The first is the Awosting Falls swimming hole. This is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. There is also a beach at the Lake Minnewaska State Park Preserve. This beach has a lifeguard on duty during the summer months. Finally, you can also swim in the lake itself.

Are there leeches in Lake Minnewaska?

It is believed that leeches are present in Lake Minnewaska due to pollution and the water from the falls that enter the lake. Additionally, renovations at Lake Minnewaska may have contributed to the presence of leeches, though this has yet to be confirmed.

Is Lake Minnewaska open for swimming?

Yes, Lake Minnewaska is open for swimming! The preserve offers a variety of swim areas, including a designated beach area and many other spots along the shoreline where visitors can take a dip. There are also a number of hiking trails in the area, so visitors can explore the scenic views while getting some exercise.