Top Hiking Trails in the Hudson Valley

The Hudson Valley, with its untouched forests, breathtaking peaks, iconic bridges, and historic ruins, is a dream destination for hikers. Trails are available for every skill level, all conveniently located near New York City. If you thought New York was solely urban, get ready for a pleasant surprise.

It's no wonder that Thomas Cole and the Hudson River School artists captured this region in their 19th-century artworks. The highlands, forests, and meadows bordering the nation's fourth-longest river create an American paradise that captivates in every season. Exploring this stunning landscape is one of the top activities in the Hudson Valley.

Whether you're embarking on a day trip from New York City or dedicating a weekend to explore the area's unique communities, here are the top hikes to include in your Hudson Valley adventure.

1. Bull Hill Trail

Top day trip from NYC5.4 miles round trip; 3-4 hours; moderate difficulty

It's no surprise that the loop around 1421-foot Bull Hill (also known as Mt Taurus) ranks among the Hudson Valley's favorite hikes. Located just 50 miles north of NYC near Cold Spring, this rewarding outdoor experience makes for a perfect day trip for city dwellers eager to explore. Plus, it provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Hudson Highlands.

The hike begins on the Washburn Trail and concludes on the Cornish Trail, featuring stunning viewpoints and intriguing ruins that draw hikers year-round. Start the trail across from Little Stony Point, a green area by the Hudson River, and ascend swiftly to the old Mt Taurus Quarry – a stone-mining site that was abandoned in the mid-20th century.

A demanding trek through rocky terrain and sparse thickets leads to multiple lookout points offering breathtaking views of Storm King Mountain, the Hudson River, and, on clear days, the distant NYC skyline. After reaching the summit of Bull Hill, the trail transforms into a peaceful forest walk, where squirrels scurry in the underbrush, birds dance among the branches, and a babbling creek provides a soothing backdrop.

Notable features of this section include the stone remnants of the Cornish Estate, constructed in 1910 and abandoned following a fire in the 1950s. Explore the ruins scattered along the trail and envision the property's Gatsby-era splendor before completing the loop. To enjoy this hike, start early, as parking spots fill quickly and overflow onto the road by mid-morning.

2. Storm King Mountain

Ideal beginner hike in the Hudson Valley2.4 miles round trip; 1-2 hours; easy to moderate

Climb to the 1300-foot peak of Storm King to discover why this mountain reigns supreme. Rocky outcrops along the trail serve as natural thrones, overseeing the Hudson Valley. Take a moment to relax at one of the overlooks and enjoy views of the Hudson Highlands to the east and the Catskills to the west. The fall foliage here is truly spectacular.

The river that shares the region's name flows below like a shimmering ribbon, while to the north, you can spot the century-old ruins of Bannerman Castle, an abandoned fort on Pollepel Island. After your hike, consider a 15-minute drive north to the Storm King Art Center – a renowned outdoor sculpture park near Cornwall – for a full day of exploration.

The hike starts at the parking area off Route 9W on the west side of the Hudson River, following orange trail markers in a clockwise direction. After a steep ascent with a few easy rock scrambles, you'll find yellow and blue markers guiding you through a grove of maple, oak, and sycamore trees.

Your first peak is Butter Hill, giving you a preview of the stunning views ahead. Continue north until the most breathtaking panoramas unfold. After taking in the breathtaking scenery, follow the white trail markers through the woods back to the parking area. Arrive early on weekends to avoid the crowds.

3. Breakneck Ridge

Ultimate full-body workout3.2 miles round trip; 3 hours; challenging

Catch the Breakneck Ridge train at Grand Central Terminal, and you'll join fellow adventurers. On warm weekends, many car-free hikers make the 90-minute journey from Manhattan to tackle the East Hudson Highlands' toughest trail. This short but demanding trek is best for seasoned hikers – expect rocky scrambles and steep ascents that require sure footing and the use of your hands.

Hikers have several trail options, but for the classic experience, follow the white trail to the red trail, then continue down the yellow path to complete the loop. Keep an eye out for views of Storm King Mountain's distinctive peak across the Hudson River, with Bull Hill appearing to the south.

If you're in decent shape, this Hudson Highlands hike won't defeat you, but you'll definitely work up a sweat. To stay safe, wear closed-toe shoes with good traction and avoid hiking in wet or icy conditions. Remember to bring water and snacks to stay energized during your journey.

4. Walkway Over the Hudson

Top ADA-compliant trail1.28 miles one way; 1 hour; easy

Take a leisurely stroll or roll across the bridge that connects Poughkeepsie and Highland, earning you New York State bragging rights. Spanning 6,768 feet in length and standing 212 feet high, the Walkway Over the Hudson is the longest elevated pedestrian bridge worldwide. It’s also one of the area's most accessible trails, featuring a 21-story glass elevator from Poughkeepsie leading to a smooth pathway. Audio tours are available in several languages.

Originally part of a thriving train network from the late 19th century, the bridge became a haunting relic of the Hudson River's industrial heyday due to declining railroad use and a fire in 1974. Today, it’s difficult to envision its years of abandonment; in summer, dog walkers, joggers, and families with strollers smoothly traverse the walkway while boats and barges race alongside cormorants below.

The ambiance shifts with the seasons. In spring, dogwoods bloom with delicate petals along the riverbank, and in autumn, vibrant colors ignite the surrounding forests. A winter visit also holds charm, as the bridge offers sweeping views of the snowy Hudson Valley. For those seeking a more demanding trek, the 4.4-mile Walkway Loop Trail crosses the bridge and meanders through historic villages and picturesque parks along the waterfront.

5. Mt Beacon Fire Tower

Best for panoramic views 4 miles round trip; 3 hours; moderate 

The stunning hike to Mt Beacon Fire Tower is a hidden gem along Route 9D. While many flock to the nearby Bull Hill and Breakneck Ridge, savvy locals prefer this quieter trail for the region's most spectacular 360-degree vistas of the Hudson Valley.

Ascend the 1600-foot peak of Mt Beacon to witness the Catskills, Shawangunks, and Hudson Highlands unfolding in every direction. On clear days, the skyline of Manhattan appears like a distant vision. The graffiti on the 60-foot fire tower sums it up perfectly: 'This sight is beyond a dream.'

The hike can be easily split into two parts. The first section features a 200-step staircase and rocky trails, following the path of the former Mt Beacon Incline Railway – once the world's steepest passenger funicular, which ran from 1902 to 1978. Along the way, you'll find ruins from the railway and an early 20th-century casino, alongside magnificent views of Beacon below.

For even more breathtaking views, push on to the fire tower. In summer, a shady canopy of birch, hemlock, oak, and maple trees envelops the trail as it winds through a fern-filled forest. If the final ascent to the rocky ridge doesn't get your heart racing, the climb up the fire tower will. Bring snacks and plenty of water, and enjoy the bird's-eye perspective as falcons and eagles glide above you. 

6. Brace Mountain

Top hike in the eastern Hudson Valley3.6 miles round trip; 3-4 hours; difficult

Join the paragliders who gather at the tallest peak in Dutchess County, where you can watch thrill-seekers glide above the eastern edge of the Hudson Valley. Brace Mountain, standing at 2311 feet in the southern Taconic Range, offers an incredible viewpoint for enjoying the valley's sweeping landscapes. 

The challenging trek to Brace Mountain begins on Quarry Hill Rd, just north of Millerton. Navigate through red oak trees, leap over large boulders, and cross streams that lead to picturesque waterfalls. When you reach the summit marked by a cairn, turn around to take in views of the Berkshires, Catskills, and expansive Hudson Valley farmland below. 

Keep an eye out for various wildlife along the trail. Shy black bears and inquisitive deer may make an appearance, while timber rattlesnakes are often seen during the summer months. In July, the blueberry bushes near the summit provide a delicious reward after your strenuous hike.

For an extra workout, consider adding Mt. Frissell to your adventure. This combined hike crosses the borders of New York, Massachusetts, and Connecticut, and it features a stone pillar marking the tri-state point.

7. Bear Mountain State Park

Ideal for hiking variety3.8 miles; 3 hours; easy to moderate

Bear Mountain State Park spans 5,205 acres, offering a refreshing escape from New York's urban sprawl, making the sight of the Manhattan skyline from its 1,303-foot summit even more astonishing. Although NYC is 50 miles to the south, this natural setting feels worlds apart.

With over 50 trails available for every kind of hiker, Bear Mountain provides plenty of options. For a view of the Big Apple’s skyline, take the scenic path from the Major Welch Trail to Perkins Memorial Tower, built in 1936, and then descend via a section of the Appalachian Trail. This counter-clockwise loop is less challenging than the Appalachian Trail's entire stretch from Georgia to Maine, yet still offers an impressive adventure.

The hike starts by Hessian Lake, transitions into an oak forest, and then tackles rocky paths lined with blueberry bushes. At the summit, climb the Perkins Memorial Tower for panoramic views. Complete the loop by descending more than 1,000 hand-cut granite steps and winding through a well-kept woodland trail.

If the thought of nature’s Stairmaster seems daunting, you can drive to the summit instead. Vehicles can reach the same viewpoint via Perkins Memorial Drive from April to November. Enhance your day by participating in the park's seasonal activities, such as boating, swimming, cross-country skiing, visiting the zoo, or dining at the charming Bear Mountain Inn—there’s something for everyone here.

8. High Falls

Top waterfall hike1.4 miles roundtrip; 1 hour; easy 

Beginner hikers will love the trek to High Falls; this short trail provides great rewards with little effort. On weekends, a diverse crowd including young families, Brooklyn hipsters, and flannel-clad locals from nearby Hudson venture through the shaded hemlock forest to find Columbia County's tallest waterfall. 

High Falls plunges an impressive 150 feet, and the trails in this conservation area offer two must-see viewpoints. Start by heading to the overlook for a perfect photo opportunity of the waterfall, where you can spot a dam at the top—an old remnant of the area's milling history. Then, make your way down to Agawamuck Creek and stroll upstream, where a smaller waterfall can be found just minutes from the main cascade's base. 

This trail is open all year, but High Falls shines brightest in early spring or after heavy rains. The path can get muddy, so wear appropriate footwear and be prepared to get a bit dirty.