From Tuxedo to New Paltz, the Lower Hudson Valley is home to some of the finest hiking destinations in the Northeast. Whether you’re seeking sweeping mountain vistas, peaceful lakes, dramatic river cliffs, or quiet forest trails, there’s an outdoor adventure for every skill level. Featuring scenic views of local streams, the Hudson River, and the Shawangunk Mountains, the natural beauty of our region is truly unmatched—and it’s one of the main reasons so many people choose to call the Hudson Valley home.
Each of these recommended hikes can be comfortably completed as a half-day or full-day excursion, leaving plenty of time to explore nearby historic villages, local dining spots, and cultural attractions.
Here are seven favorite day hikes throughout the Hudson Valley:
1. Claudius Smith's Den – Harriman State Park (Tuxedo, NY)
Combining Revolutionary War history with some of Harriman State Park’s most impressive panoramic scenery, this classic trail offers a rewarding challenge. While the cave itself served as the historical hideout for outlaw Claudius Smith, the true highlight lies above: the expansive rocky summit. On a clear day, views extend nearly 50 miles across Harriman State Park and the surrounding Highlands.
Distance: ~5–7 miles round trip (depending on route)
Local Tip: Don’t stop at the cave entrance. Climb onto the rock ledges above Claudius Smith’s Den for spectacular 360-degree views that many first-time visitors miss.
2. Storm King Mountain (Cornwall, NY)
Storm King Mountain stands as one of the Hudson Valley’s signature natural landmarks. A moderately challenging climb rewards hikers with dramatic views directly overlooking the Hudson River. From the summit, enjoy sweeping vistas extending north toward Newburgh, east into Putnam County, and south along the Hudson Highlands.
Distance: ~2.5–3 miles round trip
Local Tip: Turn your trek into a half-day outing and spend the afternoon exploring the charming Village of Cornwall. Enjoy lunch or coffee at a locally owned café, browse unique boutiques, or take a scenic drive along historic Route 218.
3. Anthony's Nose (Garrison, NY)
Offering one of the most iconic overlooks in the Hudson Highlands, Anthony’s Nose is a must-visit. After a steady ascent through hardwood forests, hikers are greeted with breathtaking views of the Bear Mountain Bridge, the Hudson River, and surrounding peaks. During the fall season, the vibrant autumn foliage makes this spot an essential stop.
Distance: ~2.5–4 miles round trip (depending on trailhead)
Local Tip: Pack binoculars to watch boats navigating the Hudson River below. If possible, plan a weekday visit to enjoy a quieter trail experience.
4. Bear Mountain via the Appalachian Trail & Perkins Memorial Tower (Bear Mountain, NY)
This classic trail follows a section of the world-famous Appalachian Trail before ascending to Perkins Memorial Tower. The elevated panorama stretches across the Lower Hudson Valley and, on exceptionally clear days, all the way to the New York City skyline.
Distance: ~4–5 miles round trip
Local Tip: Visit the nearby Trailside Museums & Zoo before or after your climb, then ascend Perkins Memorial Tower for one of the finest vantage points in the region.
5. Schunnemunk Mountain State Park (Blooming Grove, NY)
Schunnemunk Mountain is one of Orange County’s true hidden gems. The ridge trail features expansive rock ledges, serene forest pathways, and scenic overlooks looking out over the surrounding countryside. In late spring and early summer, colorful wildflowers line portions of the mountain path.
Distance: ~7–9 miles for the full ridge loop
Local Tip: Be sure to catch the wildflower meadows near the historic railroad trestle during May and June when the blooms are at their peak.
6. Minnewaska State Park Preserve (New Paltz, NY)
Famous for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear mountain lakes, cascading waterfalls, and miles of scenic carriage roads, Minnewaska State Park Preserve showcases New York’s natural grandeur. Whether taking the path to Awosting Falls, looping Lake Minnewaska, or tackling the breathtaking Gertrude’s Nose trail, the scenery is remarkable year-round.
Distance: 4–8 miles (depending on route selected)
Local Tip: If it’s your first visit, head to Gertrude’s Nose for one of the most dramatic cliff-top overlooks in the entire Hudson Valley. Afterward, head into nearby New Paltz to explore its vibrant shops, galleries, and eateries.
7. Hook Mountain State Park (Nyack, NY)
Hook Mountain offers magnificent river vistas from its prominent rocky overlook above the Tappan Zee, with views stretching across to the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge. The unique combination of soaring cliffs and wide river views makes this a stand-out destination in Rockland County.
Hook Mountain is also renowned as a premier birdwatching destination. Situated along the Atlantic Flyway, the summit provides exceptional opportunities to observe hawks, bald eagles, falcons, and migratory bird species soaring on thermal currents above the water.
Distance: ~3–5 miles round trip
Local Tip: Bring binoculars to take advantage of the raptor watching. Following your hike, head into the Village of Nyack to enjoy its waterfront parks, sidewalk cafés, art galleries, and dining spots.
Final Thoughts
These seven hikes showcase the incredible diversity of the Hudson Valley—from historic landmarks and rugged mountain ridges to dramatic river overlooks and quiet forest paths.
One of the greatest benefits of living in or visiting the Hudson Valley is that the adventure extends beyond the trailhead. Each of these locations is situated near vibrant local communities offering world-class dining, local boutiques, historic sites, and scenic drives.
Interested in learning more about living in the Hudson Valley or exploring real estate opportunities near these scenic communities? Feel free to reach out to discuss current market conditions or browse available properties across Orange, Rockland, Dutchess, and Ulster counties.
Copyright, Jacob Matthews / Jacob Matthews Realty Group, LLC 2025-2026
Browse the carousel of photos below of the Hudson Valley.
Areas displayed in the photo carousel:
"Harriman State Park" Photo by Jacob Matthews © 2025
- "Storm King Mountain" Photo by Jacob Matthews © 2025
- "Bear Mountain Bridge Anthony's Nose" by Coasterlover1994 (via Flickr), licensed under CC A-S A 4.0
- “moodna IR” by Nick Harris (via Flickr), licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0
- "Lake Minnewaska from cliffs" by Juliancolton (via Flickr), licensed under CC A-S A 4.0
- "Hook Mountain Nov2015" by Mark Wyman (via Flickr), licensed under CC A 2.0 G
