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Hiking in Appalachian Trail: trails, map and practical info

Hudson Valley • New York

5.0 Appreciated by 11 hikers
François Dumaine
By François DumaineContributor since 2022Updated 21/05/2026
Difficulty
Hard
Distance
142 km
Elevation
457 ft
Duration
7-10 jours

Experience America's most iconic long-distance trail through New York's Hudson Valley with this 2-3 week section featuring Bear Mountain State Park and Anthony's Nose summit views. The trail winds through diverse landscapes from rocky outcrops to serene woodlands along the Hudson River.

Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

Ready to explore Appalachian Trail? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

Discover the appalachian trail in the Hudson Valley: A Hiker's Paradise Welcome to the breathtaking Hudson Valley, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Nestled within this picturesque region is a segment of one of America's most iconic hiking destinations—the appalachian trail. Whether you're an experienced hiker or someone looking to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, the Hudson Valley's stretch of the appalachian trail offers an unforgettable adventure. Explore Scenic Beauty and Diverse Landscapes The appalachian trail in the Hudson Valley meanders through a diverse tapestry of landscapes, offering hikers stunning vistas, lush forests, and serene river views. As you traverse this section of the trail, you'll encounter rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and peaceful woodlands that showcase the natural beauty of New York State. The trail provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowing you to reconnect with nature in its purest form. Highlights Along the Trail One of the must-see spots along this portion of the appalachian trail is Bear Mountain State Park. Known for its panoramic views and rich history, Bear Mountain offers several trails that intersect with the appalachian trail, providing options for both leisurely walks and challenging hikes. Don't miss the Perkins Memorial Tower at the summit for breathtaking views of the Hudson River and surrounding mountains. Another highlight is Anthony's Nose, a prominent peak offering sweeping views of the Hudson Highlands. The hike to Anthony's Nose is moderately challenging but rewards adventurers with spectacular vistas that are especially captivating during sunrise or sunset. Wildlife and Flora As you hike through this region, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife such as white-tailed deer, red foxes, and various bird species. The trail is also home to diverse plant life, including vibrant wildflowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn—making every visit unique depending on the season. Plan Your Visit Before setting out on your journey along the appalachian trail in the Hudson Valley, be sure to prepare adequately. Wear sturdy hiking boots, pack plenty of water and snacks, and bring a map or GPS device to stay on track. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve this beautiful environment for future generations. Whether you're seeking solitude in nature or an exhilarating outdoor challenge, the appalachian trail in the Hudson Valley promises an experience that will leave you inspired and rejuvenated. So lace up your hiking boots and embark on an adventure that celebrates both nature's splendor and your own spirit of exploration! Expanding Beyond Hudson Valley: Explore More States Along The appalachian trail The Appalachian National Scenic Trail extends far beyond New York's borders into numerous states including North Carolina, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Tennessee, Maryland, Georgia, Vermont, and Maine. Each state offers unique sections filled with their own scenic wonders like Dragon Tooth in Virginia or achieving hiking milestones such as completing parts of what many call 'the triple crown' of long-distance hiking. Managed by organizations like the appalachian trail Conservancy headquartered in West Virginia; these groups ensure preservation efforts across all regions while promoting sustainable tourism practices throughout each state's trail segments.

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
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Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
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Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
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Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
991 State Rte 55, Pawling, NY 12564, USA
GPS coordinates
41.592871, -73.5880257
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

The start of the appalachian trail in New York is located in the town of Harriman. To get there, take the New York State Thruway to exit 16. From there, take Route 17 west to the town of Harriman. The trailhead is located on Route 106.

When?

Opening hours
From sunrise to sunset
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
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How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
41.592871, -73.5880257
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

5.0
1 Reviews
TE
Trail Explorer
Jan 15, 2024
The Appalachian Trail section through Hudson Valley offers an incredible multi-week adventure. Starting from Harriman accessible via Route 106, this challenging trek requires serious preparation and planning. The varied terrain and elevation changes make it demanding but rewarding. Note that dogs aren't permitted and there are fees involved, so budget accordingly. Perfect for experienced hikers seeking an extended wilderness experience.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Hard
457.00 m
7-10 jours
No
No
The Appalachian Trail section in Hudson Valley takes 2-3 weeks to complete. The actual duration will depend on your hiking pace, weather conditions, and planned rest days.
No, dogs are not allowed on this section of the Appalachian Trail in Hudson Valley. Plan accordingly if you typically hike with pets.
No, free parking is not available at the Appalachian Trail trailhead. You'll need to budget for parking fees when planning your visit.
The Appalachian Trail in Hudson Valley is accessible from sunrise to sunset. Plan your hiking schedule accordingly and ensure you exit before dark for safety reasons.
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Update : June 2026