Before winter starts to creep up on us, why not spend a day outside hiking along some of these great trails? Dutchess County has plenty of scenic routes and pathways to explore so take advantage of them before it gets too cold!
- Mount Beacon Park
This trail is perfect for beginner level hikers or those who just want to enjoy an easy stroll through the woods. It's a one mile loop that connects to many more miles of trail in Fishkill Ridge and Hudson Highlands State park. Stop and take in the spectacular views of Beacon, Hudson Valley, and the Hudson Valley Highlands. Intersection of Route 9D and Howland Avenue in Beacon. www.scenichudson.org
- Breakneck Ridge Trail
If you're looking for a workout, then the Breakneck Ridge Trail is right for you. This 9.6 mile path is full of twist and turns and strenuous ascents and descents to conquer. Make sure you wear boots that protect your ankles as well! Enjoy the mixed forest scenery and old fire lookout tower along the way. Located in Hudson Highlands State Park in Beacon. www.nysparks.state.ny.us
- Norrie Point Trail
Get up close and personal with the Hudson River as you hike Norrie Point Trail. For more than 2.5 out of the 5 mile path you will walk along the water and take in the beautiful scenery. At the end of the hike, make sure to stop and enjoy the sweep of lawn overlooking the river. Located in Staatsburg. www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=HGN205-018
- Poet's Walk Romantic Landscape Park Trail
Do something new and exciting with a loved one and hike Poet's Walk. This trail is only two miles long and follows the river for most of the way. Explore the open fields, spend time in the rustic gazebos, and look out over the Catskills. While you're at it, stop and have a picnic! Located in Red Hook. www.scenichudson.org/parks/poetswalk
- Stissing Mountain Trail
This trail is a steep ascent that leads to a fire-tower overlooking the picturesque Mid-Hudson. The difficulty level of the path is moderate, so be prepared for some twists and turns along the way. Located in Millerton. www.hikethehudsonvalley.com/stissing-mountain
- Thompson Pond Trail
Thompson Pond Trailis a great hike for families. It's only three miles and very easy to navigate! Explore the pond and the natural wetlands surrounding the trail as well. Located in Millerton. www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=XFA239-008
- Tivoli Bays Trail
Enjoy 5 miles of a secluded hike along the Hudson's shore. If you're lucky and the tide is low, you can even access Cruger Island! Located in Red Hook. www.dec.ny.gov/lands/92370.html
- Appalachian Trail
The ever popular Appalachian Trail cuts through southeastern Dutchess County for 30 miles. These 4,000 acres of protected parkland are perfect for hiking, backpacking, snowshoeing, as well as many other outdoor activities. The trail can be found at various locations: State Rt. 52, 4 mi. east of Taconic Parkway, parking on north side of road; State Rt. 55, west of Pawling, 1.5 mi east of State Rt. 216 intersection, parking 0.1 mi. west of trail crossing; State Rt 22, north of Pawling, between County Rt. 68 and DOT parking area, north of Rt. 68. www.appalachiantrail.org/newyork
- Dutchess Rail Trail Park
While visiting Dutchess County, make sure to make time for the Dutchess Rail Trail. It is a 13-mile paved linear park that stretches from the Walkway Over the Hudson to the restored Hopewell Depot train station in Hopewell Junction. The trail was built over the former Maybrook Rail Line and offers pedestrians and cyclists the opportunity to travel over bridges, converted railroad trestles, and tunnels. You’ll pass through Poughkeepsie, Morgan Lake, Arlington, LaGrange, Wappinger and East Fishkill. www.traillink.com
- Historic Hyde Park Trail
Enjoy over ten miles of this scenic trail that links several parks and historic sites together. You can enter the trail at any of these locations: Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, Vanderbilt Mansion NHS, Val-Kill NHS, Hackett Hill Town Park, Pinewoods Town Park, and Riverfront Town Park. www.hydeparkny.us/Recreation/Trails/
