Samuels Point
Cliff Cliff viewpoint within Shawangunk Ridge preserve
On the Shawangunk Ridge, Samuels Point offers short hikes to cliff overlooks, ice caves and popular rock-climbing routes; visitors arrive for clear valley views and access to Minnewaska State Park trails.
Samuels Point is a cliff overlook on the Shawangunk Ridge in Minnewaska State Park Preserve, Ulster County, New York. The site is noted for its rocky ledges and panoramic views over the Hudson Valley and adjacent ridges. Hikers access the point via marked trails inside the state park, which manages the surrounding forest, cliffs, and wetlands. The area is part of a larger protected landscape valued for hiking, rock exposures, and scenic overlooks.
- Access: Sits on the Shawangunk Ridge within Minnewaska State Park Preserve and is reached by maintained hiking trails.
- Highlight: Known chiefly for its cliff-top overlook that provides panoramic views over the surrounding Hudson Valley and forested ridges.
How to Get to Samuels Point #
Sam’s Point is part of the Minnewaska State Park Preserve. From New Paltz (about 20-30 minutes), drive west on NY‑299/44/55 toward Cragsmoor and follow signs to the Sam’s Point Visitor Area. The preserve has designated parking; during peak season reservations or shuttle services may be in effect - check the New York State Parks website before visiting.
Tips for Visiting Samuels Point #
- Arrive early: Sam's Point is part of a preserve and popular late morning; early light on the Shawangunk cliffs is quiet and dramatic.
- Bring traction footwear - some of the views require short, rocky scrambles and rim trails can be slick after rain.
- Don't miss the Verkeerder Kill Falls trail nearby - a separate short hike that rewards with a narrow waterfall and pools.
Best Time to Visit Samuels Point #
Spring through fall offers the best access and views; winter can be rewarding but requires preparation.
Weather & Climate near Samuels Point #
Samuels Point's climate is classified as Warm-Summer Continental - Warm-Summer Continental climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -11°C to 24°C. Abundant rainfall (1295 mm/year), wettest in May, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -2°C and lows of -11°C. Regular rainfall (93 mm).
Comfort
Weather
February
February is freezing with highs of 0°C and lows of -10°C. Regular rainfall (87 mm).
Comfort
Weather
March
March is freezing with highs of 5°C and lows of -6°C. Significant rainfall (103 mm).
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (112 mm).
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 6°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (128 mm).
Comfort
Weather
June
June is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 11°C. Significant rainfall (115 mm).
Comfort
Weather
July
July is the warmest month with highs of 24°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (110 mm).
Comfort
Weather
August
August is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 13°C. Significant rainfall (110 mm).
Comfort
Weather
September
September is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 9°C. Significant rainfall (107 mm).
Comfort
Weather
October
October is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (103 mm).
Comfort
Weather
November
November is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of -2°C. Significant rainfall (121 mm).
Comfort
Weather
December
December is freezing with highs of 1°C and lows of -7°C. Significant rainfall (106 mm).
