The Empire State has quite a reputation for its brutal winters. In fact, when we talk about visiting a frozen destination, the most ideal time to explore would be during these brutal winter days. But what if I let you in on a little secret? Down on the Shawangunk Ridge near Cragsmoor, there's actually a set of ice caves in Sam's Point Preserve that you can visit and see frosty icicles any time of the year! Sounding too strange and unusual to be true? Keep reading to discover why these ice caves in New York are one of the most magical places that you'll ever hike to. But ... before you leave for this or other winter hikes in New York, be sure you have all your cold-weather hiking essentials. In my book, it’s better to be prepared than not!

Part of Minnewaska State Park Preserve, Sam's Point Preserve covers nearly 5,000 acres of gorgeous land on the Shawangunk Ridge. A hike that's considered to be moderate, enter Sam's Point Preserve and make your way out to Ice Caves Road for a magnificent experience.

The best time to visit is during peak season from May to November, but we recommend this trail any time of year. The 0.5-mile-long trail isn't too strenuous but does involve a bit of scrambling and yes ... icy conditions!

Once you start this unique ice cave hike in New York, you'll have to go down unique staircases that take you into the cave. Almost instantly you'll feel a refreshingly cold breeze making its way through the cave as you begin to explore more and feel like you're Lara Croft or Indiana Jones. As you make your way down the staircases you'll begin to notice small amounts of ice, but once you reach the heart of the caves something extraordinary happens.

Even on the hottest of summer days, those exploring the Ice Caves of Sam's Point Preserve will find yes... a large amount of ice in here! It'll leave you speechless. Every year as winter starts to wind down and spring approaches, you’ll run into more hikers on the Ice Caves Trail. But have no worries, you can still find solitude inside this underground world.

The hike isn't terrible in length, but things can get a bit tricky for not-so-experienced hikers when you start having to climb up ladders along the trail, scramble, or deal with making your way across ice patches safely. But don't let that deter you from checking out this trail, it all comes along with the excitement of this adventure! This chilly hike is one that's quite relaxing and enjoyable any time of the year, even in the summer. Plus, who isn't amazed by finding an amount of ice like this during the month of July?

On a good year, the Sam's Point ice caves will be easy to access. But sometimes when we have cold and harsh winters, ice formations and small glaciers can form near the entrance of the trail, which means you’ll need to put some effort into exploring the caves. If you ask me, that is the best part of this winter adventure. To find out more information about Sam's Point Preserve and to see the official trail map, visit the New York Parks & Rec website.

Of course, this is just one of many ice caves in New York. Have you ever been to this cave or to another here in NY?

But when spring is still a ways away, for some equally cool winter hikes in New York, check out some of our favorite short and sweet snowy season trails! But since you might be feeling a little chilly after your hike, this warm and welcoming farmhouse is just a short drive away for a good night's rest.