6 Hudson Valley Activities With Spectacular Scenery

Leave the fast pace of city life behind and wind down in New York’s historic Hudson Valley. This rustic, rugged region is remarkable in every season and home to some of the best scenery the state has to offer. If you are looking for outdoor Hudson Valley activities, consider one of these short hikes, walks or drives.

Hudson Valley Hikes

Dater Mountain Park

Sloatsburg

This Hudson Valley hiking area was among Google’s most trending in 2024, according to Travel and Leisure, and for good reason. In Rockland County, just 45 minutes from Manhattan, it offers a relatively quiet but expansive network of trails with lots of birds and other wildlife to spot. For a bit of a challenge with a great payoff, try the Blue Disc Trail. This 1.3-mile loop starts as a flat, easy stroll, then turns steep briefly before a final ascent to a spacious 944-foot summit with sweeping views of the lower Hudson Valley. The trailhead is easily accessible from a circular parking area at the end of Johnsontown Road, just off Interstate-287.

Rockefeller State Park Preserve

Pleasantville and Sleepy Hollow

Rockefeller State Park Preserve is an excellent choice for a day trip because of how far-removed it is from the hustle and bustle, despite its proximity to New York City. The park encompasses 1,771 acres and features 45 miles of well-maintained carriage roads that take visitors through a beautiful blend of mature forest, meadows and rolling countryside. The preserve is also a popular eBird Hotspot, with 200-plus species reported. The Big Tree Double Loop is a 1.5-mile easy hike within the Sleepy Hollow portion of the preserve, where three stately stone bridges can be found. Find parking nearby and start exploring.

Stony Brook Trail, Harriman State Park

Sloatsburg

This peaceful, forested Hudson Valley hike is highlighted by the soothing soundtrack of Stony Brook. There are plenty of openings in the trees along the trail to view the water flowing over the many rocks. Be sure to arrive here early on nice days; the parking lot at the Reeves Meadow Visitor Center off the scenic Seven Lakes Drive fills up fast. There are multiple trail options here so you can hike for as long or short as you wish.

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More Scenic Walks and Drives

Croton Gorge Park

Croton-On-Hudson

If you want to experience the refreshing rush of an incredible waterfall, plan a trip to the magnificent 297-foot New Croton Dam. This massive marvel of masonry is the third largest hand-hewn structure in the world. It was completed in 1906 and supplies New York City with approximately 10% of its daily drinking water. In addition to taking in great views from the field and lower bridge, visitors can walk over the dam bridge for a stunning bird’s-eye view of the dam and Croton Reservoir. 

Little Stony Point, Hudson Highlands State Park

Cold Spring

Little Stony Point is a picturesque piece of land jutting into the Hudson River less than a mile north of the charming village of Cold Spring in Putnam County. Park in the lot, then follow the 1-mile Little Stony Point Short Loop Trail through the forest until one of the most breathtaking views in the Hudson Valley emerges. From this 108-foot stony outcrop, you can take in sweeping views of Breakneck Ridge and Storm King Mountain to the north and Cold Spring to the south. On a clear day you can even see the Catskills in the distance. Take the trail down to the beach where you can appreciate the grandeur of the mid-Hudson Valley from the river’s edge.

Storm King Highway

Cornwall

A drive on Storm King Highway (New York Route-218) is a must-do Hudson Valley activity that will leave you speechless. This 3-mile paved two-lane road hugs the edge of Storm King Mountain and offers jaw-dropping views of the Hudson River and the surrounding Highlands. The excitement builds as you leave the forested stretch and ascend the mountain toward the main panoramic viewpoint at an elevation of 420 feet. This ride is especially breathtaking when fall foliage is at its peak. The road closes during inclement weather, so plan your trip accordingly. Always check NY511 for current conditions.

Safe Hiking Tips

Whenever you set out on an outdoor adventure, always prioritize safety. Take a moment to review these tips from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

What’s your favorite thing to do in the Hudson Valley? Tell us in the comments below.

Featured image: A stone bridge on a crisp autumn morning at Rockefeller State Park. (Photo: James De Franco)

James De Franco

James is a passionate Long Island-based nature photographer and explorer. Combining a longtime love for the outdoors with photography, he captures the incredibly diverse wildlife and landscapes that define the Northeast. James enjoys discovering and visiting the most scenic locations throughout the region, all while expanding his portfolio to showcase the area’s natural beauty.