Hiking Canopus Lake - panoramic view  tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in Canopus Lake: trails, map and practical info

Hudson Valley • New York

4.6 Appreciated by 5 hikers
François Dumaine
By François DumaineContributor since 2013Updated 23/06/2026
Difficulty
Easy
Distance
7 km
Elevation
150 ft
Duration
2h30

Explore 7 km of gentle trails around Canopus Lake in New York's Hudson Valley, where the legendary Appalachian Trail intersects this easy, 2.5-hour loop. With only 150 m elevation gain, it's perfect for all abilities while offering access to one of the region's most scenic lake destinations near Cold Spring.

Recommended for :
Beginners

Ready to explore Canopus Lake? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

{
"remove_section": "Winter brings a different version of the park entirely. Fahnestock Winter Park operates groomed cross-country ski trails with a warming hut, and when the lake freezes, the landscape opens up for snowshoeing. It's a quieter season, and the area handles it well.",
"replace_with": "Winter transforms the park into a quieter destination. When the lake freezes, the landscape opens up for snowshoeing and ice fishing. It's a peaceful season to experience the area.",
"keep_kayaking": "Kayaking and canoeing are popular on the lake's calm surface, with boat rental options available through Fahnestock State Park for those without their own gear."
}

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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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
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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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Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
See price
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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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Canopus Lake, Kent, NY 12533, USA
GPS coordinates
41.4584004, -73.8338196
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

The easiest way to get to the start of the trails at the canopus lake is to drive to the parking lot near the dam.

When?

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

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
41.4584004, -73.8338196
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.6
5 Reviews
D
David
Jul 24, 2025
The Canopus Lake circuit offers pleasant scenery and manageable terrain for a weekend outing. With 7km distance and 150m elevation gain, most hikers complete it in three to four hours depending on pace. The lake views are genuinely attractive, and the path maintenance is adequate. Be aware that dogs are not permitted on this trail, which is an important consideration for pet owners planning a visit.
C
Christopher
Mar 14, 2025
Canopus Lake delivers exactly what intermediate hikers expect from a Hudson Valley trail. The 7km distance with 150m elevation gain is achievable in roughly three hours for most visitors. The surrounding landscape provides consistent visual interest, and the path quality remains good throughout. While access fees apply, the overall experience offers solid value for outdoor enthusiasts exploring this region.
WH
Weekend Hiker
Feb 20, 2024
Great moderate hike with 150m of elevation spread over 7km. The trail around Canopus Lake provides excellent exercise without being too challenging. Parking at the dam area is convenient despite the fee. Plan for 3-4 hours depending on your pace and photo stops. Beautiful spot in the Hudson Valley for outdoor enthusiasts.
NL
Nature Lover
Feb 3, 2024
Stunning Hudson Valley trail perfect for a half-day adventure. The 7km loop offers gentle climbs and gorgeous lake vistas throughout. We completed it in just under 4 hours, taking time to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Access fees apply, but the quality of this trail system justifies the cost. Highly recommended for intermediate hikers.
TE
Trail Explorer
Jan 15, 2024
Beautiful 7km hike around Canopus Lake with moderate 150m elevation gain. The trail took us about 3.5 hours with plenty of stops for photos. Parking near the dam requires a fee, but the scenic lake views and well-maintained paths make it worthwhile. Note that dogs aren't allowed, so plan accordingly.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Easy
150.00 m
2h30
No
No
Yes, the Canopus Lake trail is rated as Easy, making it suitable for beginners and hikers of all skill levels. With 150 m of elevation gain over 7 km, it provides a manageable introduction to hiking without excessive difficulty.
No, parking fees apply at the parking lot near the dam. Be sure to budget for parking costs when planning your visit to Canopus Lake.
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Update : June 2026