The SHAWANGUNK MOUNTAINS, or The GUNKS, is a ridge of mountains in the state of New York, extending from the northernmost point of New Jersey to the Catskill Mountains.

Today it has become known as one of the major ROCK CLIMBING areas of North America. Also known for its biodiversity and scenic character, the ridge has been designated by The Nature Conservancy as one of the "75 LAST GREAT PLACES ON EARTH."

The second ridge in the distance is MINNEWASKA STATE PARK AND PRESERVE. Originally part of Albert and Alfred Smiley's Mohonk Mountain House property, site of the Minnewaska Mountain House, or Cliff House.