Free guide: 25 hikes near Montreal
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Let's Go Play Outside
Seven Lakes Drive NY, Hudson Valley

Hiking near Poughkeepsie

Pick your drive. Save time for the trail.

284 trails within 2 hr of Poughkeepsie by car. Compare the drive, the walking time and the level to choose your next outing.

Photo : Seven Lakes Drive NY

Starting from: Poughkeepsie city centre
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Maximum one-way drive
With my dog

Drive times are estimates (≈) from the city centre, as the crow flies. Walking time comes from the trail page when it has one; a walking filter hides trails without a duration.

Hiking ideas near Poughkeepsie

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Mohonk Mountain House trail - hiking in Hudson Valley

Drive ≈ 26 min Walk 3 hr 15 min

Mohonk Mountain House

Explore 8.5 km of trails through the moderate terrain surrounding this Victorian resort in New Paltz, Hudson Valley. Moderate trail of 8.5 km, 462 m of climb.

Dog rules: check the trail page

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Appalachian Trail Genesis trail - hiking in Hudson Valley

Drive ≈ 53 min Walk 1 hr 15 min

Appalachian Trail Genesis

Experience the legendary start of America's most famous long-distance trail in Hudson Valley, New York. Easy trail of 3.2 km, 183 m of climb.

Dog rules: check the trail page

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Seven Lakes Drive NY trail - hiking in Hudson Valley

Drive ≈ 1 hr 6 min Walk 3 hr 15 min

Seven Lakes Drive NY

Explore 11.3 km of trails connecting seven pristine lakes through Harriman and Bear Mountain State Parks in the Hudson Valley. Moderate trail of 11.3 km, 380 m of climb.

Dog rules: check the trail page

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Trails near Poughkeepsie

8 trails shown out of 284
Sugar Loaf Mountain trail - hiking in Hudson Valley

A half-day outing takes a little planning.

Think about the way back, the breaks and the parking.

  • Check access

    Opening hours, parking and access conditions can change with the season.

  • Check the weather at the destination

    Changing weather can make some trails harder.

  • Choose your route

    Match the length and the level to your group and the time you have.

No car?

Without a car, an outing takes more planning. Some destinations near Poughkeepsie may be served by public transit, but none of our trail pages lists it yet.

Check schedules and the last return trip with the transit agency before you go.

See the frequently asked questions

Through the seasons

Spring

Spring in Poughkeepsie brings mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, making it an ideal time to explore the Hudson River Valley's scenic trails.

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The Walkway Over the Hudson offers spectacular views of the river and surrounding landscapes without muddy conditions. Pack layers as temperatures can vary from cool mornings to warm afternoons, and consider waterproof boots for potentially wet trail sections.

Summer

Summer hiking around Poughkeepsie means warm, humid conditions perfect for early morning or evening trail adventures.

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The shaded paths along the Hudson River provide relief from the heat, while elevated trails offer cooling breezes and panoramic valley views. Bring plenty of water, insect repellent, and start your hikes early to avoid the hottest part of the day.

Fall

Fall transforms the Poughkeepsie area into a hiker's paradise with spectacular foliage displays throughout the Hudson Valley.

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The crisp, comfortable temperatures make this the most popular season for exploring local trails and scenic overlooks. Layer your clothing as temperatures can drop quickly, especially at higher elevations, and expect busier trails during peak foliage season in October.

Winter

Winter hiking near Poughkeepsie offers peaceful, snow-covered landscapes with fewer crowds on the trails.

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The Hudson River Valley's moderate winter climate allows for year-round hiking, though ice cleats or microspikes are recommended for safety on potentially icy sections. Dress in moisture-wicking layers and check daylight hours as winter days are significantly shorter in this region.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I go hiking near Poughkeepsie?

The page lists 284 trails. The closest is Dutchess Rail Trail (≈ 4 min drive from downtown), the farthest Kings Point Park (≈ 2 hr). Drive times are estimated as the crow flies.

How long does it take to drive to the trails near Poughkeepsie?

23 trails are within ≈ 30 min of driving, 97 within ≈ 1 hr, and all of them within ≈ 2 hr. These are estimates from downtown.

What are the most popular trails near Poughkeepsie?

Among the trails on this page, the most viewed on Let's Go Play Outside are Seven Lakes Drive NY, Fitzgerald Falls and Sugar Loaf Mountain.

How long are the trails near Poughkeepsie?

274 listings give a length, from 0.3 km (Monksville Reservoir) to 160.9 km (Appalachian Trail CT). The other 10 do not say.

Are there easy hikes near Poughkeepsie?

Yes: among the trails on this page that give a level, 146 easy, 94 moderate and 21 hard. The closest easy ones: Dutchess Rail Trail, Peach Hill Park and Hudson Valley Rail Trail Parking Lot.

Can I hike with my dog near Poughkeepsie?

105 listings say dogs are allowed and 1 say they are not. For the other 178, the rule is not confirmed: check the trail page before you go.

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Free guide: 25 hikes under 2 hours from Montreal

Drive time, distance and level for each one. The ones we go back to ourselves.

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