Dutchess County

Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

 All Annandale-on-Hudson ListingsDutchess

 Annandale-on-Hudson Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

National Historic Landmark, Hudson River estate, views of the Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains,
Things to Do at Montgomery Place, gardens, House Tour, Hiking, Historic Site, Nature trails, Scenic Views, Waterfalls of Saw Kill River | Dutchess Montgomery Place "Historic Site"

914-631-8200
  Montgomery Place a National Historic Landmark, is an extraordinary 380-acre Hudson River estate with magnificent views of the Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains. It is located on historic River Road in the hamlet of Annandale-on-Hudson, New York, just north of the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge.

"The lover of the expressive in nature, or the beautiful in art, will find here innumerable subjects for study. The natural scenery in many portions approaches the character of grandeur, and the foreground of rich woods and lawns, stretching out on all sides of the mountain, completes a home landscape of dignified and elegant seclusion, rarely surpassed in any country" by Andrew Jackson Downing Montgomery Place  "Historic Site" | Dutchess  website and more . . .
 All Beacon ListingsDutchess

 Beacon Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

10512, Park, undeveloped preserve, Hudson Highlands, outdoor activities, fishing, boating, hiking, birding, scenic park, kayaks, canoes, Rentals, launch, Things to Do, Boat Rentals, Hiking Trails, Historic Places, Hunting | Dutchess Hudson Highlands State Park

845-225-7207
  Hudson Highlands State Park, 6,000-acres in size, is located on Route 9D Beacon NY 10512, Dutchess County in the Hudson Valley. A mostly undeveloped preserve, Hudson Highlands State Park consists of a series of separate parcels of land stretching from Annsville Creek in Peekskill, north to Dennings Point in Beacon. The spacious park is perfect for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, and birding. The Hudson Highlands and Hudson River provide spectacular backdrops for the many activities that can be enjoyed here. Hudson Highlands State Park | Dutchess  website and more . . .

Long Dock Park, Beacon Point Park, launching boats, arts, activities, popular attractions, perfect place to fish, Things to Do at Long Dock Park, Biking Trails, Boat Launch, Fishing, Kayaking & Canoeing, Winter Activities, Cross county skiing | Dutchess Long Dock Park "Scenic Hudson Valley"

845 473 4440
  Long Dock Park / Beacon Point Park
Beacon, Dutchess County
Hudson River Valley, New York State

From Scenic Hudson: "A critical 19th-century transportation link between New England and points west, Long Dock once contained a rail ferry terminal, warehouses and other buildings. More recently, it was home to an oil terminal, salt-storage facility and junkyard. All traces of its commercial and industrial past have been removed to create an exciting riverfront destination boasting a kayak pavilion and beach for launching boats, rehabilitated wetlands and meadows that attract wildlife, and the restored, historic Red Barn, now Scenic Hudson's River Center for arts and environmental-education activities. Long Dock Park   "Scenic Hudson Valley" | Dutchess  website and more . . .

restaurants in Dutchess County, Things to Do,  Hudson River Valley, New York State, Park, Fishkill Creek, Beacon Shoreline Trail, Beacon train station, trails along the Fishkill Creek, scenic overlooks of Fishing Pier, Hiking / Walking Trails, Picnicking | Dutchess Madam Brett Park "Scenic Hudson Valley"

  Madam Brett Park
Beacon, Dutchess County
Hudson River Valley, New York State

From Scenic Hudson: "Madam Brett Park hugs Fishkill Creek, which played a prominent role in Beacon's development. Along it stood a gristmill owned by the park's namesake — Catheryna Rombout Brett (1687-1764), the first European settler in the present-day city. The mill was an important gathering place for farmers and Native Americans inhabiting both shores of the Hudson River hereabouts. In the 1800s, the creek powered a profusion of hat factories (including the Tioronda Hat Works, located in the brick building adjacent to the park), which earned Beacon the nickname "New York's Hat-Making Capital. Madam Brett Park  "Scenic Hudson Valley" | Dutchess  website and more . . .

Birding, Hiking / Walking Trails, Nature Study, Picnicking, Scenic Views, hiking, walking, local farm in the Hudson Valley, restaurants in Dutchess, Hudson Highlands, Revolutionary War, Mount Beacon Park, City of Beacon, Town of Fishkill | Dutchess Mount Beacon "Scenic Hudson Valley"

  Mount Beacon Park
Beacon, Dutchess County
Hudson River Valley, New York State

Mount Beacon Park was created on land preserved by Scenic Hudson in the City of Beacon and Town of Fishkill. Totaling 234 acres, the parcels were purchased in 1995 and 1998, respectively. Mount Beacon towers above Beacon and Fishkill at the northern gateway to the Hudson Highlands. Mount Beacon  "Scenic Hudson Valley" | Dutchess  website and more . . .
 All Dutchess County ListingsDutchess

 Dutchess County Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

Things to Do, Beach, Biking, Boat Launch, Boat Rentals, Campsites, Cross-Country Skiing, Fishing, Camping, Hiking Trails, Walking Trails, Hunting, Ice Fishing, Nature Trails, Snowmobiling, Snowshoeing, Winter activities, boating, swimming, beautiful beach | Dutchess Clarence Fahnestock State Park, Dutchess County

845-225-7207
  Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park offers an excellent range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. This 14,086-acre park boasts hiking trails, picnic areas, scenic campgrounds, and abundant opportunities for boating, hunting, fishing, birding and many more activities for kids of all ages.

Click to enlarge picture of "Fishing and Boating at Fahnestock State Park".

Clarence Fahnestock State Park Clarence Fahnestock State Park, Dutchess County | Dutchess  website and more . . .

Dutchess and Columbia County Trail, Harlem Valley Rail Trail, "Harlem Valley Rail Trail – Columbia County,  Dutchess County, Things to Do on the Harlem Valley Rail Trail, Biking, Hiking / Walking, Roller blading, Winter Activities | Dutchess Harlem Valley Rail Trail - Dutchess and Columbia

  The Dutchess and Columbia County Trail is located from the southern trail head at the Wassaic Metro North Station, through the easten side of Dutchess County the trail heads north into Columbia County. The Harlem Valley Rail Trail currently has over 15 miles of paved biking trails and is actively used by thousands of walkers and bikers every year. Harlem Valley Rail Trail - Dutchess and Columbia | Dutchess  website and more . . .

Hudson Highlands, Hudson River is an estuary, things to do in the Hudson Highlands, outdoor activities, fishing, boating, hiking, hike, Hikes, Things to Do, Birding, Bird Watching, Boat Rentals, Boating, Fishing, Hiking Trails, Historic Places | Dutchess Hudson Highlands

845-225-7207
  Click to enlarge photo of the Hudson Highlands.

Click to enlarge photo of the Hudson Highlands The sign reads:
"For much of its 315-mile course, the Hudson River flows straight and broad. But at the Highlands, the Appalachian mountain chain intersects the river to create a fifteen mile stretch of rugged, mountainous landscape. This area contains the river's narrowest and deepest points, as well as its fastest currents. The Hudson River is an estuary, a mixture of salt and freshwater, and the saltwater line extends just north of Beacon. The River is tidal all the way up to the Troy Dam above Albany." Hudson Highlands | Dutchess  website and more . . .
 All Fishkill ListingsDutchess

 Fishkill Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

rare species, views of the Hudson Highlands, wilderness, spot turkey vultures, bald eagles and falcons, Things to Do at Fishkill Ridge, Bird Watching, Challenging hiking trails, experienced hikers, Picnicking, Scenic views, birding, hiking, nature study | Dutchess Fishkill Ridge "Scenic Hudson Valley"

  Fishkill Ridge
Dutchess County
Hudson River Valley, New York State

At the northern gateway to the fabled Hudson Highlands, this rugged 1900-acre park is home to eagles, falcons and numerous rare species. Magnificent views of the Hudson Highlands — and even Manhattan's skyline — provide ample compensation for the rigors of hiking through this rugged terrain. Fishkill Ridge  "Scenic Hudson Valley" | Dutchess  website and more . . .
 All Hyde Park ListingsDutchess

 Hyde Park Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

12538, home of Franklin D. Roosevelt, FDR, National Historic Site, Visit the Home of FDR, Presidential Library & Museum, Top Cottage retreat, things to do, visiting, family events, kids section, Roosevelt National Historic Site, Hudson River Valley | Dutchess FDR, Franklin D. Roosevelt Historic Site

800-337-8474
  Click to enlarge photo of Eleanor and FDR at Franklin D. Roosevelt Historic Site.

Click to enlarge photo of FDR and Eleanor. The Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site and home of FDR is located at 4097 Albany Post Road, Hyde Park NY 12538, Dutchess County. Visit the Home of FDR, called Springwood , the lifelong home of Franklin D. Roosevelt. The following quote famously captures FDR's connection to Springwood.

"All that is within me cries out to go back to my home on the Hudson River." FDR, Franklin D. Roosevelt Historic Site | Dutchess  photos, website and more . . .
 All Millerton Village ListingsDutchess

 Millerton Village Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

12546, Millerton, NY, deer hunting, turkey hunting, Rudd Pond Area, Things to Do at Taconic State Park - Rudd Pond Area, Beach, Biking, Boating, Boat Launch, Boat rentals, Campsites, Fishing, Hiking, Hunting, Winter Activities, Ice Fishing, Ice Skating | Dutchess Taconic State Park - Rudd Pond Area

518-789-3059
  Taconic State Park - Rudd Pond Area is located at 59 Rudd Pond Road, Millerton, NY 12546 in Dutchess County in the northern Hudson Valley. The park is located along 16 miles of the Taconic Mountain Range. Two developed areas, Copake Falls and Rudd Pond, offer an extensive hiking trail system with terrain that varies from easy to challenging, offering spectacular views. Taconic State Park - Rudd Pond Area | Dutchess  website and more . . .
 All Town of Pawling ListingsDutchess

 Town of Pawling Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

12564, Pawling, NY, picnic and nature walk, hot summer days, swim in the lake, picnic tables, shelters and pavilions, activities, Things to Do at Lakeside Park, Biking, Boat rentals, Family outing, Hiking, Playground, Swimming | Dutchess Lakeside Park

845-855-1131
  Lakeside Park, a 280-acre park, is located at 2 Lakeside Drive, Pawling, NY 12564 in Dutchess County in the Hudson Valley.

This 290-acre park in Pawling is made for an all-day family outing. Enjoy a picnic and nature walk, and on hot summer days enjoy boating or a swim in the lake. Lakeside Park has picnic tables, shelters and pavilions where you can picnic, followed by one or more of the many activities available at the park such as kayaking on the lake, biking, hiking, and in winter, cross-country skiing. Lakeside Park | Dutchess  more . . .
 All Pleasant Valley ListingsDutchess

 Pleasant Valley Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

12569, State Park, Pleasant Valley, NY, golf course, picnic areas, sports complex, James Baird Golf Course, Things to Do, Basketball, Hiking, Picnic, Playground, Nature Center, Softball, Tennis, Winter Activities, Cross-Country Skiing | Dutchess James Baird State Park

845-452-1489
  James Baird State Park, a 590-acre park, is located at 14 Maintenance Lane, Pleasant Valley, NY 12569 in Dutchess County. The park is situated on farmland once owned by James Baird, a contractor and engineer whose firm constructed the Lincoln Memorial. In 1939 James Baird donated the 590 acres of land to New York State under the stipulation that it be known as James Baird State Park. James Baird State Park | Dutchess  website and more . . .
 All Poughkeepsie ListingsDutchess

 Poughkeepsie Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

12601, Park, banks of the Hudson River, Quiet Cove, picnic tables, grills, fishing, walking trails, scenic overlooks, views of the Hudson River, Things to Do at Quiet Cove Riverfront Park, Boat launch for canoes and kayaks, Fishing | Dutchess Quiet Cove Riverfront Park

845-298-4600
  Quiet Cove Riverfront Park, a 27-acre park (with 5 plus acres to the West of the rail line) on the banks of the Hudson River, is located at Clear Water Drive, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 in Dutchess County. Quiet Cove offers picnic tables, grills, fishing, walking trails and scenic overlooks on the upper section of the park and breathtaking views of the Hudson River. Quiet Cove Riverfront Park | Dutchess  website and more . . .

12601State Historic Park, hikers, joggers, bicyclists, longest, elevated pedestrian bridge in the world, nationwide railway network, new state park, Hudson River, history, maps, activities, Poughkeepsie NY Dutchess County, Highland NY Ulster County | Dutchess Walkway Over The Hudson State Historic Park - Dutchess

845-834-2867
  "On October 3, 2009 Governor David A. Paterson opened the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park as a legacy project of the Hudson Fulton Champlain Quadricentennial. The park provides access to the Hudson River's breathtaking landscape for pedestrians, hikers, joggers, bicyclists, and people with disabilities. The bridge deck stands 212 feet above the river's surface and is 6,678 feet (1.28 miles) long, making it the longest, elevated pedestrian bridge in the world." Walkway Over The Hudson State Historic Park - Dutchess | Dutchess  website and more . . .
 All Town of Red Hook ListingsDutchess

 Town of Red Hook Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

Things to Do, National Historic Landmark District, Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge, Catskill Mountains, Attractions, Birding, Walking Trails, Nature Study, Picnicking, Scenic Views, hiking, picnic, local farms Hudson Valley, restaurants in Dutchess New York | Dutchess Poets' Walk Park "Scenic Hudson Valley"

  Poets' Walk
Red Hook, Dutchess County
Hudson River Valley, New York State

From Scenic Hudson: "The rolling fields and quiet woodlands have inspired generations of writers and artists. This 120-acre park is nestled in the region's famous National Historic Landmark District and offers breathtaking views of the Hudson River, Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge and Catskill Mountains. A visit to this property by Washington Irving is said to have inspired his classic story "Rip Van Winkle". Poets' Walk Park  "Scenic Hudson Valley" | Dutchess  website and more . . .
 All Rhinebeck ListingsDutchess

 Rhinebeck Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

restaurants in Rhinebeck, winter activities, sledding, cross-country skiing, Shawangunk Ridge, Catskill and Taconic mountains, Stissing Mountain, bird-watching, park, Things to Do, Birding, Cross-County Skiing, Hiking, Picnicking | Dutchess Burger Hill "Scenic Hudson Valley"

  Burger Hill Park
Rhinebeck, Dutchess County
Hudson River Valley, New York State

Burger Hill's seventy-six-acres of open meadows and rural, scenic beauty are perfect for bird-watching. The park is protected by a Scenic Hudson conservation easement and is owned by Winnakee Land Trust. Burger Hill  "Scenic Hudson Valley" | Dutchess  website and more . . .
 All Staatsburg ListingsDutchess

 Staatsburg Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

12580, State Park, marina, camping sites, hiking trails, Ogden Mills, Ruth Livingston Mills Memorial State Park, camping, boat launch ramp, activities and attractions, Things to Do, Biking, Boat Launches, Cross Country Skiing, Fishing, Hiking | Dutchess Mills Norrie State Park (Margaret Lewis Norrie)

845-889-4646
  Margaret Lewis Norrie State Park is located at Staatsburg NY 12580, Dutchess County in the Hudson River Valley. Margaret Lewis Norrie State Park adjoins Ogden Mills and Ruth Livingston Mills Memorial State Park and together, comprise more than 1,000-acres. Margaret Lewis Norrie State Park offers a full menu of exhilarating recreational opportunities and activities for visitors of all ages. Mills Norrie State Park (Margaret Lewis Norrie) | Dutchess  website and more . . .

12580, Staatsburg NY, Mills Memorial State Park, Staatsburgh State Historic Site, Dinsmore Public Golf Course, best hiking in the hudson valley, walking, jogging, hiking, cycling, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, views of the Hudson River, History | Dutchess Ogden Mills & Ruth Livingston Mills State Park

845-889-4646
  Ogden Mills & Ruth Livingston Mills State Park is located at Old Post Road, Staatsburg NY 12580 in Dutchess County. The Ogden Mills and Ruth Livingston Mills State Park adjoins Margaret Lewis Norrie State Park and together, comprise more than one thousand acres. Ogden Mills & Ruth Livingston Mills State Park | Dutchess  website and more . . .

12580, Golf Course, Staatsburg, NY, scenic 18-hole course, Ogden Mills & Ruth Livingston Mills State Park, Mills Mansion State Historic Site, Scenic hiking trails,  marina, Golf Course Information, 18-hole, Driving range, Practice putting greens | Dutchess Public Golf Course - Dinsmore Golf Course

845-889-4071
  Dinsmore Golf Course is located at 199 Old Post Road, Staatsburg, NY 12580 in Dutchess County.

From Dinsmore Golf Course: "This scenic 18-hole course offers a panoramic view of the beautiful Hudson River and majestic Catskill Mountains from the Ogden Mills & Ruth Livingston Mills State Park. It is the third oldest golf course in the country. Built as a private 9-hole course in the 1890s, it was an amenity to the estates of the Dinsmore, Hoyt and Mills families. The land was donated by Helen Hull. The original course, which is now the south nine, was expanded to 18 holes in 1962. Public Golf Course - Dinsmore Golf Course | Dutchess  website and more . . .

12580, Historic Site, Staatsburg NY, Ogden Mills, great estate, History, mansion, tours, activities, Things to Do at Staatsburgh State Historic Site, Biking, Group Tours, Hiking, Historic House, Winter Activities, Cross-country Skiing | Dutchess Staatsburgh "State Historic Site"

845-889-8851
  Staatsburgh State Historic Site is located at Old Post Road, Staatsburg NY 12580 in Dutchess County in the Hudson Valley. Staatsburgh is the elegant country home of Ogden Mills and his wife Ruth Livingston Mills. Sitting atop a grassy hill overlooking the Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains, their house is a fine example of a great estate built by America's financial and industrial leaders during the Gilded Age (1876 - 1917). Also known as the American Renaissance, this period in American history was marked by America's rapid economic growth and emergence as a world power. Darius Ogden Mills, father of Ogden Mills, established the family fortune by investing in banks, railroads and mines. Ogden Mills, like his father, was a noted financier and philanthropist. In 1882 he married Ruth Livingston, whose family had been prominent landowners in the Hudson Valley since the 17th century. In 1890, Ruth Livingston Mills inherited her childhood home and property which had once belonged to her great-grandfather, Morgan Lewis, the third governor of New York State. Staatsburgh  "State Historic Site" | Dutchess  website and more . . .
 All Stanfordville ListingsDutchess

 Stanfordville Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

12581, Milan NY, northern Dutchess County, Things to Do at Wilcox Park, Birdwatching, Birthday parties, 
Boating, Campgrounds, Fishing, Hiking, Mini Golf, Pavilions, Picnicking, Playgrounds, Swimming, Winter Activities, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing | Dutchess Wilcox Memorial Park

845-758-6100
  Wilcox Memorial Park, a 615-acre park, is located at 1639 Route 199, Milan NY 12581 in northern Dutchess County. Wilcox was formerly the estate and farm of Mrs. Frederick P. Wilcox, its 18th century complex of farm buildings still stand today.

Wilcox Memorial Park has a 5 acre swimming lake that is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. There is also a fishing lake, 27 site campgrounds, 2 new playgrounds, and a basketball court. There is an extensive hiking trail system throughout the 615 acre park. This park has 4 pavilions that can be reserved through the online reservation system. Pavilion C is currently the largest pavilion in Wilcox Park, complete with kitchen facilities and restrooms and a great view of the lake from its location at the top of the hill. Admission is charged to the public when the swimming lake is open. Wilcox Memorial Park | Dutchess  website and more . . .
 All Wappingers Falls ListingsDutchess

 Wappingers Falls Hiking Trails | Places To Hike

12590, park on the banks of the Hudson River, scenic views, picnicking, and an award-winning handicapped-accessible playground, water spray park, Things to Do, Wheelchair Accessible, Children's Playground Area, water spray park, Educational Programs | Dutchess Bowdoin Park

845-298-4600
  Bowdoin Park, a 301-acre park on the banks of the Hudson River, is located at 85 Sheafe Road, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 in Dutchess County.

The park offers scenic views, picnicking, and an award-winning handicapped-accessible playground area and water spray park. Also available for parties and events are five pavilions (4 handicapped-accessible), and a community room. Bowdoin Park | Dutchess  website and more . . .

towns of Beekman and Pawling,  Dutchess County, Wildlife, Things to Do at Depot Hill Multiple Use Area, Hiking, Hunting, Trapping, Wildlife | Dutchess Depot Hill MUA

845-831-8780
  Depot Hill, 267-acres in size, is located in the towns of Beekman and Pawling, Dutchess County in the Hudson Valley.

From Department of Environmental Conservation: "The 267-acre Depot Multiple Use Area is distinctive for hosting part of the Appalachian Trail. Please be aware that forest management activities, such as timber thinning or harvesting, may disrupt trail use at times. The forests here are managed to produce forest crops, maintain diverse wildlife habitats, and provide recreational opportunities while protecting aesthetics and water quality." Depot Hill MUA | Dutchess  website and more . . .

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Places to Hike | Hiking Trails
Dutchess County
Hudson River Valley


Find list of the best places to hike in Dutchess County, New York. Hiking trails are listed by town within Dutchess County in the mid-Hudson Valley. Find hiking trails throughout Dutchess and experience hiking in Dutchess for the beginning, intermediate, and experienced hiker.

Pack plenty of water, snacks, and your hiking gear, and select a great place to hike at Dutchess Hiking Trails where you can experience the thrill of a challenging hike; or for beginners, the satisfying feeling of spending a day outdoors surrounded by nature.

Although hiking and walking may appear to be the same activity; hiking usually refers to the experience of walking on trails and paths away from the noise and pollution of an urban area. Hiking trails are often surrounded by clean air, trees, the sounds of birds and the wonderful breadth of nature. In contrast, you can walk just about anywhere, including busy streets in a nearby city such as Poughkeepsie, New York. Dutchess hiking offers a wide range of trails for all levels of hikers. The beginning, intermediate, and experienced hiker can find places to hike that are suitable for their level of expertise.

Plan a vacation hiking in one of many beautiful parks throughout Dutchess. Dutchess abounds with excellenthiking trails and historic sites. You can plan a vacation in Dutchess where you combine visiting Historic Sites with hiking in Dutchess parks.

Hiking with Kids
Hiking is ranked among the best activities for kids. Most kids will enjoy a hike. When planning a hike, let the child's ability guide you. Some kids are more active and have more energy than other children. Let the age of the child and each individual child's ability to walk distances be your guide.

The benefits of hiking with kids are many. Hiking allows you to share an experience or adventure with your child where you can discover nature and a healthy outdoor environment. Learn about birds, small animals, wild flowers, trees, and more about the natural world around us. You can work together with your child to map out and determine the hiking route that best suits you and your child's ability. In addition to the many benefits listed above, is the fact that hiking is good for your mental and physical health, and hiking is often free. A hike is within reach of most people that are reasonably healthy, regardless of financial circumstances.

Involve your child in the planning stages of a hike. Select a trail together, and then create a simple map that your child can read while on the trail. You can also teach the child how to read trail markers. If your child is not initially interested in hiking, you may want to reward your child at the end of a hike for helping to find the hiking markers and the way forward or back to home base. This added incentive may encourage your child toward becoming a hiker.

During the preparation phase of the hike, give children a list of hiking essentials and let them pack their own backpack. The backpack should include gear similar to your own such as a whistle, rainwear, compass, and first-aid kit. In addition to involving the children in "the adventure of hiking" they will feel grownup and responsible as you work together to make the hike a success.

Before embarking on your hiking adventure assemble adequate supplies including plenty of water, healthy snacks that your child enjoys, and a map that your child can read. Involve them in decisions of where to hike as you would involve another adult. Here are some suggestions toward building a successful hiking experience with kids:

  • Invite your child's friend so they can share the adventure together; as we all know, "Grownups can get boring."

  • Find a trail that includes an activity the kids enjoy at the end of the hike. For example:
  • Pack protein snacks that are good for the kids and that they enjoy eating.

  • In cool weather, pack warm dry clothes and backup clothing.

  • The most important thing to remember is that hiking should be fun. Don't stress if you cannot complete your hike, or if it starts to rain, or if it's too hot. Just enjoy the day together. These memories will last a lifetime for both you and your children.

    The mid-Hudson Valley offers trails for all levels of hikers at Hiking in Dutchess County. Whether you are new to hiking or experienced on the trails, you'll find many places to comfortably and confidently hike. Check this list of places to hike in Dutchess County.
    Hiking trails can vary in difficulty and in the time it takes to hike a trail. Hikes can take you across flat fields requiring less stamina or on hiking paths along mountain ranges, requiring a hiker in excellent health with good stamina and endurance.

    Hikes can be as short as an hour or take several months involving camping equipment and gear. Although hiking trails vary in difficulty, it is believed by most that hiking is good for your physical and mental health as well as your spirit. Many trails are located in large parks such as Taconic State Park offering all levels of hiking. Regardless of you skill, all hikers can benefit from the natural environment that allows you to breath-in fresh air, listen to the sounds of nature, the singing of birds, and the sounds of small animals running about.

    Photographers, be sure to bring your camera as hiking trails often run through scenic landscapes offering great photo opportunities. Before starting your first hike, review essentials for hiking.

    Essentials for Hiking Safety

    Tips for Safe Hiking.



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