Top 10 Hikes with Swimming Holes in New York and New Jersey

When the summer heat hits, it is always refreshing to go for a swim after a day's hike. 

The following is a list (in no particular order) of the best (legal) swimming holes hikers may take advantage of this season.

Have your own favorite to recommend? Tell us in the comment section at the end--you must be registered on this website to comment.


New York

Black Rock Forest, Orange County

Sutherland Pond is the only natural pond in Black Rock Forest, and swimming is permitted at your own risk. The Sutherland Pond/Scenic Trail/Eagle Cliff Loop will take you to this swimming spot.

Catskill Park, Greene County

The Mud Pond/Trout Pond Loop is the trail to follow for Catskills swimming, permitted in both ponds, though at your own risk. Mud Pond is located near some interesting ruins of old settlements, and Trout Pond is near a short trail that leads to a lean-to. This would be a good place to stop for lunch.

Minnewaska State Park Preserve, Ulster Co.

In addition to Lake Minnewaska, this preserve is home to the more secluded Lake Awosting. Swimming is permitted at both when lifeguards are on duty. This hike offers access to both swim areas: Castle Point Carriageway /Lake Awosting Carriageway /Upper Awosting Carriageway Loop.

Fahnestock State Park, Putnam County

Try the Appalachian Trail/Blue Trail (Clear Lake) Loop from Route 301, which takes hikers across various terrains and past beautiful Clear Lake.

Mohonk Preserve, Ulster County 

Swimming is permitted at Split Rock/Coxing Kill, though there is no lifeguard on duty. Per person fee required to access Mohonk lands. The Old Minnewaska Trail and Undivided Lot Trail loop takes hikers to various scenic spots and rock formations.  


New Jersey

Wawayanda State Park, Passaic County

There is lots for hikers enjoy in Wawayanda, including historical sites, rocks to climb, 20 miles of Appalachian Trail and, in the summertime, a swim beach. Try the Pumphouse Trail/Laurel Pond Trail Loop before jumping in the lake.

High Point State Park, Sussex County

Climb to New Jersey's highest point from Steeny Kill Lake (no swimming), enjoy panoramic views across three states, then end your day by jumping into Lake Marcia to cool off (at the beach and when lifeguards are on duty).

Norvin Green State Forest, Passaic County

Various hikes ranging in difficulty and length begin in the area of the Highlands Natural Pool, which is a good spot to return to for a dip once you've finished hiking. It is an "Olympic-sized, stream-fed freshwater pool" with no chemicals added. There are fees for non-members. Click here for hike suggestions. 

Ringwood State Park, Passaic County

Ringwood State Park features both wild lands and landscaped gardens. The Shepherd Lake/Mount Defiance/Skylands Manor Loop runs along the swimmable Shepherd Lake, climbing to several viewpoints on Mount Defiance and exploring the historic Skylands Manor area.

Round Valley Recreation Area, Hunterdon County

Swim in New Jersey's deepest body of water at 180 feet and explore the hiking trails, picnic areas and wilderness campsites included in this 1,288-acre multi-use recreation area. The reservoir in Round Valley Recreation Area is three-miles long and two-miles wide and offers 12-miles of trails.


Bonus "Swike" Area

Delaware Water Gap, Warren County, NJ

Turtle Beach--on the Delaware River near the trailhead of the Kaiser Road Trail. A good hike in this area starts on the Coppermines Trail. (Click here for a 2010 news story about the beach, which opened in 2010.)