The iconic Mohonk Mountain House, the historic landmark property whose establishment by the Smiley brothers 145 years ago set the stage for the preservation of the entire Shawangunk Ridge 100 years later, is visually stunning, especially on a sunny autumn afternoon. One drives in on a long, winding access road to discover a hidden world on top of the ridge — almost like arriving at a scene plucked from out of a fairy tale. It's only 90 miles north of New York City but feels as if it's a world unto itself. Special thanks to Nina Smiley for granting us access.