This blog was updated from an earlier version
Distance from Moynihan Train Hall: 3.7 miles to The Battery
Ready to hike, but not looking to travel too far? The Manhattan Greenway Trail is the perfect destination for city residents who want to stay close to home or for anyone who prefers urban trails. Strolling through New York City may not provide you with mountain views, but it surely has its perks. This trail is the first segment of the Hudson Valley Greenway Trail. The trail takes hikers on a walk along the beautiful Hudson River. Starting at The Battery, hikers can begin wherever they want on the trail. It’s easy to forget New York’s natural environment when living in the concrete jungle, but the Greenway Trail will be sure to remind anyone that Manhattan has its own natural beauties, especially in the winter.
Distance from Poughkeepsie Station (POU): 0.9 miles to Walkway Over the Hudson
Taking Amtrak to the Poughkeepsie Station provides hikers with access to two trails. The Walkway Over the Hudson is an attraction unto itself; but it also connects two trails with the Empire State Trail. On the Dutchess County side of the Walkway, hikers can complete the 13.4-mile William R. Steinhaus Dutchess Rail Trail, which extends east to the restored Hopewell Depot in Hopewell Junction. Hikers will be able to experience both the beautiful winter scenery of the Hudson River and a wooded winter wonderland. You can cross-country ski and snowshoe on any unplowed section of the Dutchess Rail Trail.
Distance from Poughkeepsie Station (POU): 0.9 miles
On the other side of the Walkway Over the Hudson is the Hudson Valley Rail Trail, which takes walkers from Lloyd to New Paltz on a 9-mile hike. The first seven miles are paved and reserved for bicyclists and hikers only; the final two miles are considered “off-road”, appropriate for experienced bicyclists and walkers comfortable traveling on road shoulders next to vehicle traffic. Typically, completion of this trail takes around three to five hours on foot and one hour by bicycle in the warmer months. In the winter months, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are available as well. If you forget to pack a lunch on the trail, there is a variety of eateries along the way.
Distance from Poughkeepsie Station (POU): 11 miles to Water Street Market in New Paltz
Once you’ve reached the end of the Hudson Valley Rail Trail, you’ll find the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. The 22+-mile rail trail winds along the former Walkill Valley Railroad corridor from Gardiner to Kingston, with access points in Gardiner, New Paltz, Rosendale and Kingston. Just like the Hudson Valley Rail Trail, you’ll find plenty of things to do and places to eat while on your hike. You’ll enjoy thick forestry, sprawling hills and the presence of the Walkill River on the unpaved stone trail which is open from dawn until dusk. You may also notice a familiar attraction. The Springtown Truss Bridge, famously featured in the popular film, “A Quiet Place,” starring John Krasinski and Emily Blunt, can be seen and hiked along the way. Horses are also welcome.
