Winter Hikes in the Hudson Valley

There’s still time this season to make a trip to the Hudson Valley for some winter fun! There’s more to do than just skiing and snowboarding in the Hudson Valley – why not take advantage of the area’s incredible scenic hiking trails and get some fresh cold mountain air while you are at it. Plan a trip to the Hudson Valley before winter comes to an end and enjoy these 6 Hudson Valley Winter Hikes.
 

6 Hudson Valley Winter Hikes

Esopus Meadows Preserve 
Ulster Park

Four trails totaling two miles traverse tranquil woodland or lead along the Hudson shoreline. Look for herons and swans, skip rocks on the river, and walk the network of easy trails. A popular destination is the Hudson River Greenway Water Trail site on Esopus Meadows’ shore.

Minnewaska State Park
New Paltz

Found on the beautiful Shawangunk Mountain ridge, Minnewaska boasts some of the best views of the Hudson Valley. You won’t be able to enjoy the park’s famous swimming holes, but you can take advantage of plenty of hiking and cross-country skiing trails. Stroll around the lake and watch for hawks flying beneath you on these steep carriage trails lined with craggy rocks.

Dutchess County Rail Trail
Entrances in Hopewell Junction, Wappingers Falls, and Poughkeepsie

This 13 mile trail runs from the old train depot at Hopewell Junction to the Walkway Over The Hudson in Poughkeepsie. Even in the winter the Walkway can be enjoyable on a sunny day.  Or there’s plenty of woodland views to enjoy if you’d rather not make the hike all the way to the Hudson.

Franny Reese Park 
Highland

Take in the scenery from the 2.5 miles of trails following a historic carriage road that passes the ruins of a 19th-century estate. Enjoy a stunning view of the Mid-Hudson Bridge, Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park and the City of Poughkeepsie.

Mohonk Preserve
New Paltz

Enjoy scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and peace & quiet. Save the rock climbing for the summer and instead explore the miles of wide, flat carriage roads and trails that lead throughout the Preserve.

Illinois Mountain
Highland, NY

3 miles of trail ranging from easy to moderate for hikers and moderate to difficult for mountain bikers. Enjoy the scenic journey over trails that ramble through rocky switchbacks, revealing hidden treasures along the ridge such as wetland habitats, rocky outcroppings and native ferns.

Visit here for some more fun ideas of winter activities you can enjoy in the Hudson Valley.  And be sure to check out this list of our top five favorite Hudson Valley Winter Getaways for tips on where to stay before you plan your winter weekend trip!