The Hudson Valley is home to a plethora of hiking opportunities. But with so many choices it can be overwhelming to pick a hike. Here, I will list 3 outstanding hikes I believe have wonderful options for every skill level, Instagram photographer, and adventure seeker.
1. Black Creek Preserve
Key Interests of the Hike:
The Black Creek Preserve has some great features to experience. The first is a beautiful 120-foot suspension bridge which is an awesome spot to take post-able photos. There is a slight incline in the beginning but afterward the trail is very walkable. Once you pass a few vernal ponds, a rock wall, and a few benches the trail in the Preserve leads to spectacular views along the Hudson River.
Natural Features:
Black Creek which flows under a suspension bridge at the beginning of the hike. As well as great views along the Hudson River. Also, the signs along the trail give facts about the trees and diversity of the preserve. Worth noting is this preserve is important in the conservation of the Eastern Hemlock, which have been dealing with an invasive pest called the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid.
Skill Level:
This hike is great for beginners who are willing to overcome a small hill in the beginning of the hike. Some rocks and inclines throughout but very navigable terrain and well maintained.
Location:
The Black Creek Preserve is located in Esopus, New York. The Preserve is just 90 minutes north of New York City.
2. Blue Mountain Reservation
Key Interests of the Hike:
With over 1500 acres of woods and more inclined than Black Creek Preserve, the Blue Mountain Reservation is a great place for beginners looking to add more endurance to their hikes. The trails are well marked, with some off routes. At the summit, there is a great place to peak out and see the Hudson River and Bear Mountain State Park. Also, there is an old stone lean-to that is a great point of interest.
Natural Features:
The Blue Mountain Reservation offers some great natural features. You get a nice summit without having to hike a huge mountain, there are some nice secluded valleys and rock outcrops along the trail as well. My favorite is a small pond that if you venture onto a bike path off the main trail is a great rest spot.
Skill level:
This hike is great for beginners willing to sweat a little. Overall a great hike for all levels.
Location:
The Blue Mountain Reservation is located just an hour north of New York City in Peekskill, New York.
3. Slide Mountain
Key Interests of the Hike:
If you’re looking to practice your summit skills this is a great start. Deemed the easiest of the Catskill High Peaks, Slide is a great entryway into the 3500 and above mountains of the area. The summit offers two great spots for views and pictures as well as a rock memorial to John Burroughs. Following the blue trail there is a monument to two famous hikers as well, Curtis and Ormsbee who belonged to the Fresh Air Club in New York.
Natural Features:
Slide Mountain is a high peak in the Catskills region with a protected wilderness. The wilderness consists of the largest amount of first growth forest in the Catskills. To begin the hike, you must cross the Neversink River which is the largest tributary of the Delaware and derives its name from Algonquin and means, “Mad River.” At higher elevations, Slide offers some great experience under the canopies of conifer trees.
Skill level:
Medium hiker ready to begin the journey up elevations. A great challenge to the heart, lungs, and legs that will reward the hiker with equally great views.
Location:
Slide Mountain is located in Shandaken, New York. This trek is about 2 hours and 30 minutes north of New York City in the heart of the Catskills.
Conclusion:
Black Creek Preserve, Blue Mountain Reservation, and Slide Mountain are three outstanding hikes in the Hudson Valley that have many options for all sorts of hikers and nature enthusiasts. The only thing you need to decide next is what order you are going to hike these incredible trails.