Stissing Mountain Multiple Use Area

• Open for recreation: Year-round
• Fee: Free
• Contact Information:
  • DEC Region 3 New Paltz Office (M-F, 8:30 AM - 4:45 PM), (845) 256-3076; [email protected]
  • Search, rescue, wildfire, and enforcement matters: 911- or - 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264) 
    A local Forest Ranger is a valuable source of information for the state land you would like to visit.
• Location: Towns of Milan, Pine Plains and Stanford, Dutchess County
• Wildlife Management Unit: 3G
• Map: Stissng Mountain Multiple Use Area Map (GeoPDF) - GeoPDF Instructions || Google Earth || DECinfo Locator

The 590-acre Stissing Mountain Multiple Use Area features large areas suitable for hunting and nature viewing, as well as opportunities for hiking and cross-country skiing. Note that there is a large beaver pond that has flooded some trails. You may need to cross a stream in order to access trails on the eastern portion of the property.

There is no direct access to Stissing Mountain Firetower from the MUA. For information about the Stissing Mountain Firetower, go to the Friends of Stissing Landmarks website.

Directions

Parking is available on Hicks Hill Road (2 cars). There is also parking off Hicks Hill Road, turn at the signed truck trail and park near the wetland (3 cars), and drive down the hill for additional parking (4 cars).

• Hicks Hill Road parking area, (41.934376°N, 73.717856°W) Google Maps 
• Hunts Road West parking area, (41.939144°N, 73.712538°W) Google Maps 
• Hunts Road East parking area, (41.938757°N, 73.708529°W) Google Maps 

All coordinates provided are in decimal degrees using NAD83/WGS84 datum.

Rules, Regulations and Outdoor Safety

Practice Leave No Trace Principles when recreating on state land to enjoy the outdoors responsibly, minimize impact on the natural resources and avoid conflicts with other users.

All users of Stissing Mountain MUA must follow all State Land Use Regulations and should follow all Outdoor Safety Practices for the safety of the user and protection of the resource.

Specific Rules

Snowmobiling, mountain biking and horseback riding are allowed within the property but there are no designated trails or maintained areas for these activities.

Planning and Management

DEC is developing a unit management plan (UMP) which will describe the management activities for these lands. In addition to management objectives, the UMP will contain detailed information on natural features, recreational infrastructure, geology, natural and human history, habitats, wildlife, fisheries and much more.

If you have questions and/or comments about this UMP, please email us at [email protected].

Nearby State Lands, Facilities, Amenities and Other Information

State Lands and Facilities

• Wassaic Multiple Use Area
• Lafayetteville Multiple Use Area
• Tivoli Bays Wildlife Management Area
• Wilcox Memorial Park 
• Buttercup Farm Audubon Sanctuary

Where to Find Nearby Amenities

• Dining opportunities, gas, food and other supplies may be found in the nearby communities of Pine Plains, Rhinebeck and Red Hook.
• Lodging may be found in the nearby communities of Rhinebeck and Red Hook.

Dutchess County Tourism can provide information about other recreation, attractions and amenities in this area.

Numerous guidebooks and maps are available with information on the lands, waters, trails and other recreational facilities in this area. These can be purchased at most outdoor equipment retailers, bookstores, and on-line booksellers.

Additional information, outdoor equipment, trip suggestions and guided or self-guided tours may be obtained from outdoor guide and outfitting businesses. Check area chambers of commerce, telephone directories or search the internet for listings.

Consider hiring an outdoor guide if you have little experience or woodland skills. See the NYS Outdoor Guides Association for information on outdoor guides.