Lake Onteora has some of the easiest and most accessible hikes near Kingston, New York. It’s located up Route 28 just three miles west of Kingston, within the Bluestone Wild Forest. In addition to three short trails, Lake Onteora has picnic tables, campsites and lake access for swimming and boating. In fact, Lake Onteora was the first place I took my stand-up paddleboard for a test paddle!
As a Kingston local, I’ve hiked each of Lake Onteora’s trails multiple times, from winter snowshoe treks to summer blueberry picking hikes. So read on for all the Onteora Lake Trail details and my favorite locals’ tips to make the most of these accessible hikes near Kingston, NY!
Hiking Options at Lake Onteora
There are three Onteora Lake Trails:
- Yellow Trail (also called Lake Loop Trail): A 3.2 mile loop trail through hemlock forests and bluestone quarry ruins.
- Red Trail: A 2.25 mile forested trail with tons of blueberry bushes.
- Blue Trail: A 1.5 mile forest trail with lots of ups and downs that connects to the red trail.
I’ve hiked all of the trails at Lake Onteora. The Yellow and Red ones are probably my favorites.
I especially like the Red Trail in late July when the blueberries are ripe. The Red Trail is also a great dog-friendly hike. It’s on the short and easy side, so it would be a solid kid friendly hike in Ulster County, too.
The Yellow Trail is the longest (though still on the short side) and has the most interesting scenery. See the maps below and read on for trail descriptions and my tips.
Yellow Trail
Pick up the Lake Loop Trail (aka the Yellow Trail) at the lower parking lot. Pass by the lake beaches and a couple of campsites before entering a forest of oaks and hemlocks. The large slabs of bluestone are evidence of an old quarry.
When the Yellow Trail splits, stay to the left. The gently rolling hills can be slippery with autumn leaves and taking it in this direction means hiking uphill, rather than downhill, on slippery leaves.
Hike through a forest and by Pickerel Pond, a medium-sized pond. On the second half of the trail, you’ll be on the far shore of Onteora Lake, looking out at the lake and the parking area where you started. The trail leads up some light inclines before rejoining the loop. Hook a left to return to the starting point.
Red Trail
The Red Trail is a loop trail through a mixed forest of oaks and pines. You’ll see two vernal pools, shallow bodies of water that offer shelter and food for wildlife. You’ll also spot lots of low growing blueberry bushes. As with any foraged food, only pick it if you can make a positive identification and leave plenty behind for wildlife!
Blue Trail
The blue trail is shorter, with more elevation changes.
Some hikers find the blue trail to be more challenging. Personally, I find all the trails at Lake Onteora to be fairly accessible. Slabsides, another hike near Kingston, has steeper elevation changes and more rock scrambles than any of the trails here.
That said, all of the Onteora Lake trails can be muddy during spring. In fall and winter, the forest floor is lined with decomposing leaves, which can be slippery when wet. I generally don’t bring my trekking poles to Lake Onteora, but they are a good idea for added stability.
Things to Do Alongside Hiking on Onteora Lake Trail
Hiking is one of my favorite ways to get outside, but it might not be yours! No worries in that case – there is plenty more to do at this popular Catskills hiking area.
Trails at Lake Onteora are mixed use. Mountain bikers can use them, too. While the trails at Lake Onteora are on the short side, connector trails lead to the Jockey Hill mountain biking trails.
Lake Onteora swimming and boating are so popular during the summer that I put together a full guide to swimming and paddlesports! Check out that post for detailed information about swimming, kayaking or standup paddleboarding Onteora Lake, and need-to-know details for planning your day trip.
Fishing is also popular at Lake Onteora. Visit during the winter and you’ll see people ice fishing from the lake. In summer, anglers cast from an accessible fishing platform near the lake shore.
The Hudson Valley has plenty of groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter. The trails here aren’t groomed, but I find them ideal for winter snowshoeing. There’s enough elevation change to make it interesting, while still being accessible for a beginner snowshoeing trip.
Lake Onteora Hiking Need to Know
Before you head out on these popular Hudson Valley hikes, read my practical tips and recommendations to make the most of your visit.
Looking for more locals’ tips on the Hudson Valley? Check out these favorite day trips in the Hudson Valley!
How long is the Onteora Lake Trail?
The Yellow Trail is 3.2 miles. The Red Trail is 2.25 miles. The blue trail is 1.5 miles. If you combine all the hikes at Lake Onteora, you’d be hiking almost 7 miles.
How deep is Onteora Lake?
Onteora Lake is 20 feet deep, maximum.
What kind of fish are in Onteora Lake?
Fish present in Onteora Lake include largemouth bass, rock bass, bluegill, sunfish, panfish, and alewife.
Onteora Lake Trail Head and Parking Info
The Onteora Lake parking area is on the right side of Route 28 heading from Kingston to Woodstock. When you see the brown sign with a fish icon, slow down and put your blinker on. Follow the gravel driveway to the lower lot and park there. The large overhead lot at the top is best for summer crowds and winter, when the lower road can be icy.
Where is the Bluestone Wild Forest?
The Bluestone Wild Forest spans the towns of Kingston, Woodstock, Hurley and Ulster in Ulster County, New York. There are 29 miles of trail within the forest, most of them originally built for mountain biking. Lake Onteora in Bluestone Wild Forest is one of the most accessible lakes in the Catskills, and a popular swimming spot.
Best Restaurants Near Lake Onteora?
Hickory Smokehouse is a barbecue restaurant on Route 28 that’s good for groups. They’re meat-heavy but you’ll find some plant-based menu items and a huge selection of pies for dessert.
If you’re coming from Kingston, I’d recommend Sissy’s Cafe for picnic supplies. Sissy’s has amazing sandwiches and salads. I love the tempeh wrap and my wife is partial to the Hot Bird, a cheesy avocado turkey panini.
This post was all about hikes and other things to do at Lake Onteora in Ulster County. For more hike ideas, check out these favorite fall hikes with peak foliage views.
