Hiking is becoming extremely popular, and currently, the number of US hikers is more than 49.6 million. Maybe it’s the peace that comes with being outdoors. Maybe it’s the jaw-dropping views. It could even be the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing a hiking trail. Whatever the case, hiking will always be an amazing activity.
The Hudson Valley may just be an hour away from New York City, but it’s a wonderful hiker’s paradise. If you’re an outdoor lover, you’re going to appreciate the diversity of the destinations. It includes breathtaking waterfalls, peaceful walks, and rough trails. Most of these destinations are accessible without cars, and some are even pet-friendly.
Looking for a great way to take a break from normal activities? Here are the top 6 hiking trails in the Hudson Valley.
6 Amazing Hiking Trails in the Hudson Valley
1. Middletown Reservoir Trail
These reservoir grounds are just minutes away from the downtown region and have been supplying Middletown with water since 1866. They are a 1,250-acre protected area, and recently, the city opened the grounds up for recreational activities. The Middletown Reservoir trail is 8.5 miles long. You can easily bike, jog, run or walk through the beautiful sceneries.
This trail runs around Middletown’s 3 major lakes, smaller lakes, and feeder streams. As you navigate the trails, you’ll be able to take in the breathtaking views of Shawangunk Reservoir, Highland Reservoir, and Monhegan Reservoir. It’s surrounded by greenery and forests full of white pines that protect you from the sun, especially in Mount Hope and Wallkill.
2. Sterling Forest State Park
The Sterling Forest State Park is like a state sanctuary for local and migratory animals, including songbirds, hawk species, and black bears. It’s also home to many rare plants and is surrounded by Long Pond Ironworks State Park, Tranquility Ridge County Park, and Harriman State Park.
This state park is a hub of beautiful trails and has more than 30 marked hiking trails. One of the most popular hiking trails in this park is the Allis Trail. This is one of the oldest and connects the Appalachian Trails and the Sterling Ridge. Other trails include Townsend Trail (2.3 miles), Sterling Valley Loop Trail (6.2 miles), Sterling Ridge Trail (8.6 miles), as well as the Sapphire Trail (2.2 miles).
The Sterling Forest State Park is also pet friendly.
3. Poets’ Walk Trail
The Poet’s Walk trail got its name from the poets that found it so beautiful that they used to walk there to seek inspiration. Legend has it that Washington Irving was gazing at the Catskill Mountains while on the trail when the idea of Rip Van Winkle struck him.
The Poet’s trail is 2.25 miles long and has an elevation change of 203 feet. You can easily complete it in 1hr 15 minutes, and the best part is that it’s free. There are no entry charges. You also get to enjoy the views of Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge, the Hudson River, and the Catskills.
This trail is open all year round and has strategically placed wooden pavilions and benches where you can sit and enjoy the beautiful scenery mid-hike.
4. Breakneck Ridge Trail
These trails are easily accessible from New York City. They have a breathtaking view of the Hudson Highlands and the Hudson River. You should, however, note that some sections of the trail are very difficult to navigate, especially the vertical rock scramble.
Do you have a fear of heights? Then the Breakneck Ridge Trails aren’t for you as most of the terrain comprises very steep drop-offs. This means that you have to choose your footholds and handholds carefully to avoid accidents.
The Breakneck Ridge trails are 3 miles long for the short loop, while the longer loops are 4.2 miles and 5.5 miles. You could drive to these trails, most New Yorkers prefer taking the train, which is only 80 minutes long.
5. Table Rocks Trail, Mohonk Preserve
If you plan to end your hike with a picnic, you should consider the Table Rocks Trail, Mohonk Preserve. This Hudson Valley trail is especially rewarding during the spring and summer when the meadows are covered with beautiful wildflowers. It goes through a forested area and eventually leads into the Table Rocks, which are big slabs of stone.
You can then set up your picnic site on one of the flat rocks and enjoy a view of the Catskills mountains. This trail is only 4 miles long and can easily be navigated in 1.5 hours.
6. Black Creek Preserve Trail
Few trails lead up to the Hudson River, and the Black Creek Preserve trail is one of them. It comprises 3 flat trails that all have direct access to the River and start at a beautiful suspension bridge.
This trail is fairly easy. One of the best things about it is that it’s rarely crowded. It could be because it’s a hidden gem that few people know about or the limited parking spaces on the grounds.
Do You Have the Best Footwear for Your Hike?
Studies show that hiking improves your posture and strengthens your bones and muscles. You should, however, note that ankle injuries are more likely to occur on hikes, especially if you don’t have the best hiking and running shoes. There are a lot of great hiking locations in the Hudson Valley, and you shouldn’t have to miss them due to foot-related injuries.
Dr. Marc Frankel has 20 years of experience and has seen over 120,000 patients over the course of this career. This is why we are the go-to podiatrist in the Hudson Valley. Contact us today for all foot and ankle hiking injuries! Conveniently for you, we have offices in Middletown, NY, Warwick, NY, and Milford, PA!
