Seven Must-Experience Hudson River Walkways
The Hudson River has inspired adventurers, artists, authors, and environmentalists for centuries. It is still a place where the river’s shorelines recedes into wild places, and where the rooftops and turrets of stately homes of Gilded Age grandeur and a long-gone past attest to its historic import.
Explore the wild places, the scenic vistas, and the waterways of our region on foot or by bike when you explore these seven Hudson River walkways.
Connecting the two towns of Poughkeepsie and Highland, this walkway is the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge at 1.28 miles from gate to gate. Originally a railroad bridge used to transport raw materials, today’s visitors will enjoy walking and biking 212 feet above the water! A mobile audio tour is available in several languages.
Highland and Poughkeepsie
845-454-9469 | www.walkway.org
Walk above the Old Croton Aqueduct to explore 26.2 miles of scenic, historic and architectural treasures along the way, including Croton Point Park, several manor houses such as Van Cortlandt Manor and Washington Irving’s Sunnyside, as well as Lyndhurst Castle. The Hudson River Museum, offering engaging experiences in art, science and history for all ages, is also located on the trail. Explore the beautiful outdoor landscapes, then head inside the museum to enjoy a star show at the planetarium, and more.
The Skywalk connects the two homes of the Hudson River School’s founding father and star pupil, now known as the Thomas Cole National Historic Site in Catskill, and Olana State Historic Site in Hudson. Cole founded the style of painting that made the Hudson River famous, and his first student Frederic Church amplified its fame. Today, visitors can enjoy strolling the multi-use path for panoramic views of the surrounding Catskill Mountains and river towns. The trail is two miles roundtrip, and visitors will be able to explore both historic sites.
Catskill and Hudson
(518) 943-2360 • https://www.hudsonriverskywalk.org
Explore the wildlife, beaches, and the boardwalk at Constitution Marsh Audubon Center and Sanctuary in Garrison. While strolling the boardwalk is a must to view the many birds that make the area their home, and pass through on the Atlantic Flyway, kayaking around the marsh offers some of the most breathtaking views found along the Hudson River.
The Suspension Bridge at Black Creek Preserve offers visitors the chance to explore both the creek and the Hudson River’s wild shorelines. The park offers 130 acres and about two miles of trails that wind around vernal pools. Head to Pitch Pine Overlook on the Blue Trail for views of the Hudson River. This bridge does not span the river, but does offer family-friendly adventure for all ages.
Suspension Bridge at Black Creek Preserve, Esopus
(845) 473-4440 • www.scenichudson.org
Part of the Hudson River Valley Greenway system, the Westchester RiverWalk links village centers, historic sites, parks and river access points via a network of trails, esplanades and boardwalks. Nearly 33 miles of the planned 51.5-mile path is publically accessible. The trail includes a 5.2-acre waterfront park offering magnificent views of the Hudson River and Manhattan skyline. Go fishing, bring a picnic, or just enjoy a quiet stroll or bike ride on the path.
Discover the Nyack-Haverstraw River Trail at Nyack Beach State Park in Rockland County. The trailway travels for five miles, altering between woodland and expansive river views. You’ll pass through three state parks on this trail, Nyack Beach State Park, Rockland Lake State Park, and Haverstraw Beach State Park.
Want to experience a more intimate river setting than the mighty Hudson? Head to the Bronx River Pathway, which winds from Yonkers to Valhalla; the nation’s first “linear park” includes nine miles of paved trails for walking, running and biking, crisscrossing the river on small scenic bridges. Or visit Rensselaer County to cross the historic wooden Buskirk Covered Bridge over the Hoosic River; built in 1857, it was rehabilitated in 2005. The Putnam Trailway is also a must. Covering nearly 12 miles, it offers a multiuse trail perfect for walking and biking in summer, and cross country skiing in winter.
Wherever you roam, the Hudson Valley offers a unique nature experience that invites you to Make It Yours.
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