Highlight (Segment) • Climb
Hiking
5.0
(8)
The Labyrinth Rock Scramble (Mohonk Preserve) offers an exhilarating and unique adventure within the stunning Shawangunk Mountains of Ulster County, New York. This challenging natural monument, located on the grounds of the historic Mohonk Mountain House, is renowned for its intricate network of tight rock passages, ladders, and boulder scrambles. It culminates at the iconic Skytop Tower, which stands approximately 1,545 feet (471 meters) above sea level and 300 feet above Lake Mohonk, providing expansive views across the Hudson Valley.
…This segment may be dangerous
Parts of this Highlight comprise highly technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.
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Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Details
Informations
Distance 189 m
Uphill 0 m
Downhill 40 m
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Friday 3 April
20°C
3°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 21.0 km/h
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Access to The Labyrinth Rock Scramble is typically through the Mohonk Mountain House grounds, which requires a day pass. This pass incurs a fee, so be prepared for an admission cost in addition to any parking fees. It's advisable to check the Mohonk Mountain House website for current pricing and operating hours before your visit.
The Labyrinth Rock Scramble is considered a strenuous hike due to its tight rock passages, ladders, and boulder scrambling. While adventurous children might enjoy it, it's not recommended for very young children or those uncomfortable with heights, tight spaces, or significant physical exertion. Hikers should have good mobility and a reasonable level of fitness. There is an optional bypass for the most challenging section, the Lemon Squeeze.
No, dogs are not permitted on The Labyrinth Rock Scramble trail. The nature of the climb, with its tight squeezes, ladders, and challenging rock formations, makes it unsuitable and unsafe for canine companions.
The Lemon Squeeze is a notorious 100-foot rock crevice that requires hikers to navigate very narrow spaces and ascend steep, narrow ladders. You may need to remove your backpack to fit through certain sections. For those who prefer not to attempt this challenging part, there is an optional bypass trail available.
A full loop, including the approach hike to the Labyrinth and the scramble itself, is generally around 5.5 to 6.5 miles and can take approximately 4 hours to complete. The Labyrinth portion itself is a one-way trail.
Given the strenuous and technical nature of the scramble, it's crucial to wear proper footwear with excellent traction. You should also bring plenty of water, snacks, and a small backpack that can be easily removed for tight squeezes. Gloves can be helpful for gripping rocks and ladders. Always check the weather and dress in layers.
The Labyrinth Rock Scramble can get very crowded, especially on weekends and during peak fall foliage season. To avoid crowds, consider visiting on weekdays or arriving very early in the morning. Mohonk Preserve offers many other trails, some of which also feature rock scrambles, that might be less frequented. Exploring other areas of the Preserve can provide a more serene experience.
Skytop Tower, the culmination of The Labyrinth Rock Scramble, offers exhilarating 360-degree panoramic views. From this vantage point, 300 feet above Lake Mohonk, you can see the vast Hudson Valley, the Catskill Mountains, and on exceptionally clear days, potentially up to six states, including New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania.
No, The Labyrinth Rock Scramble and the Lemon Squeeze are closed during winter months. Due to dangerous ice and snow conditions, these sections are inaccessible to ensure visitor safety. The best time to visit is typically during spring, summer, and fall.
The Mohonk Mountain House, adjacent to the Preserve, offers dining options for its guests, and sometimes for day visitors depending on availability and reservation. For more casual options, the nearby town of New Paltz has a variety of cafes, restaurants, and pubs where you can refuel after your hike.