Sam's Point, Ice Cave Trail, Verkeerderkill Falls

Located in Sam's Point Preserve, this hike has three major attractions – panoramic views from Sam's Point, mysterious and chilly Ice Caves, and a knee-weakening perch atop Verkeerderkill Falls.

Pay attention to seasonal conditions before making this trip. Spring and early summer are best for seeing the falls at its peak (the photograph above is not peak season). If you come too early in spring or too late in fall, the ice caves may not be passable. Call the visitor's center ahead of time to inquire.

From the parking lot (see note on parking below), walk around the gate onto Loop Road. When the road forks, go to the right and you will hike up a series of switchbacks through a deciduous forest.

After half a mile, you will pass by some views of exposed cliffs. If you follow the dirt road to your left, you will find yourself at Sam's Point, with even more spectacular views of Shawangunk Ridge and Wallkill Valley. Not shabby for less than a mile in!

When you've had your fill of the scenery, head back to Loop Road, then turn left. You will now enter into the park's unique dwarf pitch pine forest, underlaid with blueberry and huckleberry. At the junction in a half mile, turn right and follow signs to Ice Caves Road.

Along this route, you will also pass by a sign marking Verkeerderkill Falls Trail. If you'd prefer to visit the falls before the caves, turn here. Otherwise, remember the trailhead for later.

As you continue towards the caves, you will have views of Castle Point and Gertrude's Nose. The road eventually ends at a large, open area – the trailhead of Ice Caves Loop (0.5 miles) is marked at the back end of the clearing. Turn right onto the trail, beginning a somewhat steep descent into a rock crevice.

You will visit three crevices, in all – note that they can be quite chilly and dark. Emerging from the caves, you will have to climb a number of wooden ladders as well - something to keep in mind if you have canine companions. Follow the white blazes, and after the third cave the trail will return to the start of the loop.

Head back to the trailhead of Verkeerderkill Falls Trail next, and turn right onto the trail, marked with the aqua blazes of Long Path. This trail is mostly downhill and descends steeply as you approach the falls. At the T-intersection, turn right.

About an hour in, the trail will make a sharp left – you will have just seen a sign announcing your arrival at one of the “Earth's Last Great Places.” Instead of turning, keep right onto an unmarked path which will take you to a rock ledge overlooking the falls. Please be careful – there are no guard rails!

After you've finished at the falls, backtrack to Ice Caves Road and turn right, then left onto Loop Road, which will return to the parking area.

Parking is pretty limited here, and if you don't get a spot you may be turned away. There is also a $10 parking fee.