Hiking in Coxing Trailhead: trails, map and practical info

Description

The Coxing Trailhead is a popular starting point for hikers exploring the Shawangunk Ridge area of the Hudson Valley. Situated within the broader network of trails connecting Minnewaska State Park and the Mohonk Preserve, this trailhead gives you direct access to some of the most scenic terrain in the region — think open ridgelines, rocky outcrops, and dense hardwood forest typical of the Gunks.

The Trail

The route from Coxing Trailhead covers 8 km with a modest 91 m of elevation gain, making it an easy outing that most hikers can complete in around 2 hours 15 minutes. The low elevation change means you're not grinding up steep switchbacks — instead, the trail rolls gently through the landscape, letting you focus on the surroundings rather than your breathing.

The path is well-marked and easy to follow, starting out as a wide, clear track through the forest before opening up to more varied terrain. The footing is generally good, though some sections can get muddy after rain, as is common throughout the Shawangunk area.

What to Expect on the Ground

From the trailhead, you move through a mix of woodland and open areas characteristic of the Hudson Valley's western edge. The Shawangunk Ridge geology — white conglomerate rock and pitch pine scrub — starts to show itself as you get further along the trail, giving the landscape a distinct look that sets this region apart from the softer, more forested terrain found elsewhere in New York.

The trail connects to the wider network of paths in the area, including routes toward West Trapps and Trapps Road, which open up options for extending your day if you want more mileage. The Millbrook Ridge Loop and Old Minnewaska Trail within Minnewaska State Park are also accessible from this general area, giving experienced hikers plenty of room to explore beyond the main Coxing route.

Notable landmarks within reach include Skytop and the Lost City — a striking area of eroded conglomerate formations that look genuinely unusual and are worth seeking out if you have the time and legs for it.

Getting There and Parking

The trailhead has a large parking lot with room for both cars and trailers, which is a real plus on busy weekends when smaller trailheads in the region fill up fast. There's a map kiosk on-site where you can grab a trail map before heading out — useful if you're planning to link up with connecting trails. A portable restroom is also available at the trailhead.

New Paltz is the closest town of any size and serves as a practical base for the area, with gas stations, restaurants, and accommodations. It's a well-worn gateway for anyone exploring the Shawangunk Ridge, and most visitors heading to the Coxing Trailhead pass through on their way in.

Who It's Good For

Because of its easy difficulty rating and manageable distance, the Coxing Trailhead works well for families with older kids, casual hikers, or anyone looking for a solid half-day outing without committing to a full mountain day. The flat-to-rolling terrain also makes it a reasonable option for hikers returning from injury or those just getting back into a regular outdoor routine.

That said, the trail's connection to the larger Minnewaska and Mohonk trail networks means it's also a legitimate starting point for more ambitious loops — experienced hikers can use it as a launching pad for longer days that take in more of the ridge.

A Few Things Worth Knowing

• Parking can fill up on weekends, especially in fall when the Hudson Valley draws large crowds — arriving early makes a real difference.
• The trail map kiosk at the trailhead is helpful, but downloading a map in advance is a good habit in areas where cell service can be spotty.
• The Shawangunk Ridge is shared between Minnewaska State Park and the Mohonk Preserve, and different sections may have different access rules or fees — check current conditions before you go.
• Mud and wet rock can be slippery after rain; trail shoes with decent grip are a better call than road runners here.