The Gardiner NY area is known as a destination for nature lovers of all sorts -and are a vast playground for climbers, hikers, and bicyclists. $574,000

The Gardiner NY area is known as a destination for nature lovers of all sorts -and are a vast playground for climbers, hikers, and bicyclists. Sheer rock faces and huge ice-age boulders draw nature enthusiasts here from downstate and far beyond to enjoy the unique terrain.5 miles from the entrance to Minnewaska State Park and ½ mile from the Mohonk Preserve Visitor Center, this airy contemporary ranch has around 5 trails that start or end on the property, as documented in the Climbers Guide to the Shawangunks, The Near Trapps / Millbrook by Dick Williams. The property runs all the way up the cliff to the blue trail connecting to more than 30,000 acres comprising The Mohonk Preserve and Minnewaska State Park. All of this is to say that this property’s stunning 7.9 acres are an intricate, storied part of the Shawangunk Mountain Range, renowned for its wildness and beauty – it is gorgeous country. Set among this acreage is a contemporary escape whose wood-clad cinderblock structure fits in perfectly with its surroundings. The vibe inside is fresh, modern, and light with perfect rustic touches contributed by the wood beams supporting the charming sleeping loft, the warm wood floors, wood doors, and a woodstove that’s just right for the living room. Windows are strategically placed to let the beauty of the acreage adorn the living spaces; even in darkness, you feel enveloped by and connected to the wide, natural world outside. With 2 bedrooms and 1 bath this home has just the right amount of space, offering an opportunity to keep it simple as a cabin in the woods is meant to be. If the sounds of bird calls and seasonal streams (yes, there is a stream!), the smell of earth and of trees, and the sights of changing seasons are what you long for, come for a tour before someone else finds YOUR hideaway.