Comprehensive Guide to Trails Along the Hudson River
Explore the stunning natural beauty of the Hudson River Valley with this comprehensive guide to the best trails along the iconic waterway. From beginner-friendly strolls to challenging hikes, discover the diverse landscapes, scenic vistas, and rich wildlife that make the Hudson River region a premier outdoor destination.
What are the Beginner-Friendly Trails Along the Hudson River?
- Poets’ Walk Park, Red Hook
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: 2 miles
- Scenic Highlights: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson River.
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Access: 776 River Road, Red Hook, NY
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Constitution Marsh Audubon Center and Sanctuary, Garrison
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: Boardwalk trail through a marsh
- Scenic Highlights: Birdwatch and capture serene water shots.
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Access: Sunrise to sunset, no fee
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High Falls Conservation Area, Philmont
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: 1.5 miles
- Scenic Highlights: Marvel at the 150-foot waterfall.
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Access: Philmont, NY, stress-free hike
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Bash Bish Falls, Copake
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: 1.5 miles
- Scenic Highlights: Admire the stunning waterfall views.
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Access: Copake, NY, easy, breezy hike
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Walkway Over the Hudson, Poughkeepsie
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: 1.25 miles
- Scenic Highlights: Enjoy panoramic views of the Hudson River.
- Access: 7 AM – sunset, no fee
What are the Trails Near Popular Locations Along the Hudson River?
- Bear Mountain State Park, Bear Mountain
- Access: Bear Mountain, NY, near NYC
- Trail Conditions: Varied terrain, including a large lake and Hudson River views
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Notable Features: Diverse landscapes, wildlife, and scenic lake reflections
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Harriman State Park, Ramapo
- Access: Ramapo, NY, near NYC
- Trail Conditions: Over 200 miles of trails with varying difficulty levels
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Notable Features: Lemon Squeezer, Long Mountain trail, and Popolopen Torne for scenic views
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Minnewaska State Park Preserve, Kerhonkson
- Access: Kerhonkson, NY, near NYC
- Trail Conditions: Rugged terrain, waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes
- Notable Features: Breathtaking vistas, dynamic landscapes, and vibrant fall colors
What are the Walking Trails and Amenities Along the Hudson River?
- Putnam Trailway
- Accessibility: 12 miles of mostly easy walking, from Baldwin Place to Brewster
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Amenities: Scenic views, wildlife habitats, and historical significance
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Appalachian Trail, Pawling
- Accessibility: Easy walk on a boardwalk over the Great Swamp
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Amenities: Benches, wildlife viewing, and a labor-of-love boardwalk
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North County Trailway, Tarrytown
- Accessibility: 22 miles of trail through Westchester County
- Amenities: Scenic lakes, tall canopy of trees, and wildlife habitats
Where Can I Rent Bikes and What are the Regulations Along the Hudson River Trails?
- Walkway Over the Hudson, Poughkeepsie
- Bike Rentals: Available at the Poughkeepsie entrance
- Rental Costs: Varying costs depending on the rental duration
- Hours of Operation: 7 AM – sunset
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Regulations: Follow traffic rules and be mindful of pedestrians
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Harriman State Park, Ramapo
- Bike Rentals: Available at the park’s visitor center
- Rental Costs: $20 per hour, $40 per day
- Hours of Operation: 8 AM – 5 PM
- Regulations: Helmets required, follow park rules
What Travel Information Should I Know for Visiting the Hudson River Trails?
- Public Transportation:
- Metro-North Railroad: Accessible from NYC, with stops near various trailheads
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Bus Services: Available from NYC to nearby towns, connecting to trailheads
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Parking Availability:
- Bear Mountain State Park: $10 per vehicle (parking)
- Harriman State Park: $10 per vehicle (parking)
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Minnewaska State Park Preserve: $10 per vehicle (parking)
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Recommended Visiting Times:
- Avoid Crowds: Visit during weekdays or early mornings on weekends
- Best Scenic Views: Golden hour (dawn or dusk) for optimal photography
Reference Links
- Little Cacti Photos – 20 Hudson Valley Hikes: Discover Serene Hidden Gems
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Hudson Valley Magazine – 18 Hudson Valley Trails That Are Perfect for Summer Hikes
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Hudson Valley Luxury Resorts – 10 Easy Hudson Valley Hikes To Walk Off Those Holiday Dinners
- https://hudsonvalleyluxuryresorts.com/10-easy-hudson-valley-hikes-to-walk-off-those-holiday-dinners/