Hiking trails offer an incredible array of experiences, from an exhilarating climb to relaxing riverside strolls. Summer months offer prime hiking conditions while fall foliage allows visitors to soak up nature’s spectacle before winter brings thrilling ice climbing opportunities.
New York is filled with scenic pathways snaking around its lakes, ponds and mountains. From steep inclines to hidden waterfalls, New York’s landscape will leave you craving more.
1. Breakneck Ridge
Breakneck Ridge, one of New York’s premier hikes, features a steep and challenging trail with breathtaking views. Although more difficult than other Hudson Highlands trails, Breakneck Ridge remains manageable by those with average fitness levels and should only be attempted under adverse weather conditions with appropriate footwear (grippy hiking shoes and possibly climbing gloves are recommended).
Attractions along this trail extend far beyond its beautiful vistas; for instance, Bannerman Castle on Popell Island in the Hudson River can be visited via boat trip from Beacon dock. Visitors may tour this early 20th-century castle/military warehouse.
Notable sights near the top of a cliff include Breakneck Ridge Flag Pole and Monument to Victims of Communism, both found near its summit. Furthermore, Indian Brook Falls trail leads to a charming waterfall that makes an excellent hike during fall foliage season (usually late September or October).
While Breakneck Ridge may be challenging, the stunning views alone are worth your while. Though popular among hikers, weekend and peak hiking times tend to get very crowded on this trail; however if you visit during weekday or off-peak times you are much more likely to have the trail all to yourself without being tailgated by faster hikers.
Metro North Hudson Line stops provide the simplest way to access this trail, so allow plenty of time for your journey as weekends and other peak hiking times tend to be very crowded trains. Once at the station, head directly downhill towards State Road 9D until you arrive at its trailhead; or take an Uber from Cold Spring.
2. Coxing Trail
Mohonk Preserve provides an ideal setting for an exciting moderately challenging hike through a variety of terrain, such as forest trails, rocky inclines and stream crossings. Furthermore, this trail boasts unique natural features such as Split Rock and Coxing Kill – an excellent way to spend an entire day discovering one of New York’s most scenic regions!
The Coxing Trail begins just outside Mohonk Preserve Visitor Center and features a family-friendly, wheelchair accessible path lined with interpretive signs that describe its natural features. This quarter-mile loop gives visitors an overview of this preserve’s diverse landscapes as well as providing a great place to stretch their legs after driving or bussing for extended trips.
From the visitor center, follow the yellow-blazed Coxing Trail as it crosses a stream on a wooden bridge and makes its way through an oak forest, before beginning an ascendant route through hardwood forests and approaching Coxing Kill (a creek crossing that can become treacherous after rain), before passing Split Rock for stunning views at its summit.
Once past the rock formation, the trail descends into a valley and passes by a small waterfall, offering the ideal place for cooling off and taking advantage of Split Rock Swimming Hole’s refreshing waters – named for two rocks that create its gorge; deep enough for swimming but shallow enough for lounging around!
The trail then follows a woods road, once used to transport conglomerate for use as grindstones, until reaching blue-blazed Giant’s Path which descends into the crevices of cliff faces before crossing Rhododendron Road and Overcliff Carriage Road before arriving at Coxing Trailhead Parking Lot.
This hiking trail is best enjoyed from spring through fall when flowers are in full bloom and temperatures are mild; however, you can visit any time of the year. Be sure to consult a park map before embarking on your trek and practice hiking etiquette by remaining on the right side of the path for others’ passing ease.
4. Mohonk Preserve
Mohonk Preserve, a private nature preserve and National Historic Landmark resort dedicated to environmental stewardship, stands as a regional model of conservation through innovative approaches that promote preservation, land stewardship and education – creating connections between people and nature through an educational experience that draws them in.
The Shawangunk Ridge Preserve extends across both Wallkill and Rondout valleys and encompasses mountains, cliffs, forests, fields, lakes and streams – among many other distinctive natural environments – offering hikers, bikers, horseback riders, cross-country skiers and snowshoers an opportunity to experience its stunning pristine beauty. Over 70 miles of historic carriage roads and trails give hikers, bikers, horseback riders, cross-country skiers and snowshoers access. Furthermore, this property also offers rock climbing on world-class cliffs!
Mohonk welcomes over 200,000 visitors annually for various outdoor activities. Many come to hike its more than 85 miles of gorgeous trails; others to simply take in breathtaking scenery; still others come for overnight stays at Mohonk National Historic Landmark Resort where guests can indulge in farm-to-table cuisine and experience other exciting activities.
Mohonk Preserve not only boasts beautiful natural features, but it is also home to numerous educational programs for both children and adults, such as summer Nature Camp for kids as well as special events and exhibits designed to teach visitors more about its history and surrounding area. Fitness classes such as Tai Chi and Yoga as well as hikes for dogs and groups can all be found here!
This property is open to the public every day with a fee for non-members. Exploring this preserve on foot is by far the best way, with multiple hiking trails and carriage roads that allow people of all abilities to easily access all parts of it.
Dogs are welcome in the preserve, though not allowed near the Mountain House or trails leading up to it. Anyone looking to walk up can reach it from Testimonial Gateway or Spring Farm; though please be mindful that it may take quite a bit of time in round trip!
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