Many people may think that a lot of the places between Long Island and upstate can get a bit boring -- and that isn't necessarily false, especially around where I live. There is slim pickings when it comes to getting yourself off the couch and into the wild. So here are a few to spice up your summer.
1. Cat Rock and the Appalachian Trail.
One of the most amazing parts of the Hudson Valley is the presence of the famous Appalachian Trail. This thing runs right through good old Pawling and is a great place to hear stories from people from all over the country. Also, Cat Rock is a little break off of the App Trail and the view is absolutely incredible. A lot of people make at least one stop there on all of their breaks, because man this hike is easy and it's always fun to take pictures at the top.
2. Carmel Rail Trail.
Just a hop and a skip away from Cat Rock is the Carmel Rail Trail. Though it used to provide freight and passenger service from 1881 to 1958, the Trail is now home to many bikers and runners hoping to get a scenic jog in close to home.
3. Walkway Over the Hudson.
Completed just a few years ago, the Walkway Over the Hudson is a perfect place to bring any visitors to the area. The Walkway is 1.28 miles long, making it the longest, elevated pedestrian bridge in the world! On any day of the week, you can see people walking, biking or running across the Walkway because it is really just an awesome place to be.
4. Mohonk Mountain Preserve and House.
New Paltz is such a cute little Hudson Valley town with a bunch of little shops and beautiful scenery. The Mohonk Mountain Preserve and House are really cool parts of it. The House really looks like it came from somewhere abroad because it just really doesn't look real. On the Preserve there are lots of different trails to explore, some easier than others. But there's something for everyone, so definitely worth a visit.
5. Ninham Tower.
I have only been here once, but it was definitely an awesome experience. Yes, it's kind of hard to get up there, up the literal mountain to the top -- and then all the stairs, but the top is so worth it. You can see for miles around you and it's just absolutely incredible. Takes your breath away.
6. Croton Point Park.
Croton Point Park is a nice place to be for just about anything. Along with the walking trails and swimming, Croton Point is home to some of the most historic wine cellars in the State. If you ever come through Westchester, try to stop by.
7. Rockefeller State Park.
Writing this, I realize how many places I really am missing out on visiting. I have heard only rave reviews of Rockefeller State Park. It is a great place to run at and spend time in nature with family or friends. Or both, why not? Also, very close to the city, so if you want to stop in, it isn't too far.
8. Breakneck Ridge.
One of the more challenging hikes in the area, but again with a view that does not disappoint. Right in between Cold Spring and Beacon, Breakneck is not for the faint of heart. Yeah, it might take you a while to get up there, but hiking is hard and always worth it so, go for it.
9. Bannerman Castle.
While looking out over the view from Breakneck Ridge, one is able to see a small island situated in the middle of the river. This island is home to a very beautiful castle that used to be home to a bunch of military supplies. Now, hard hat tours are given to tourists who wish to visit the island. The castle is almost all in ruins, but the parts that are still standing are truly incredible.
10. Mount Beacon.
Another challenging hike, but much more manageable than Breakneck Ridge. On the way up, people are able to explore the ruins of the Incline Railway's Powerhouse. At about a mile from the summit, there is an old fire tower similar to the one at Ninham, where you can see all the way to Albany and NYC from the top. Those looking for a little bit of a longer hike can make their way up to Fishkill Ridge, where you can see very obviously, the Manhattan skyline!
11. Dover Stone Church.
One of the easiest hikes in the area that only takes about one hour roundtrip! The best feature of this one is the beautiful waterfall that is located inside of a cave at the end of the hike. It is kind of secluded on a side street in Dover Plains, but if you are lucky to stumble across it, it is truly amazing.
12. Bull's Bridge.
Home to a lot of cliff jumping and sun bathing high school and college students, Bull's Bridge is an area many people from where I am from have frequented. Rapids, small trails and easy hikes to small overlooks give Bull's Bridge a great reputation around the area. But, a lot of people come to Bull's Bridge for cliff jumping because come on, that's way more fun.
So, in reality, if you live in the Dutchess/Putnam/Westchester area, there really is no excuse to sit at home all summer. Adventure is out there for all of us, you might just have to look for it a little bit.
