To help you make the most of your trip, here are the 9 best Hudson Valley hikes for Fall 2025.
From challenging climbs to easy scenic trails, these are the hikes that deliver the most jaw-dropping foliage views.
Table of Contents
1. Breakneck Ridge
Breakneck Ridge is often called the most thrilling hike in the Hudson Valley, and for good reason. The rocky climb starts steep and stays adventurous, with scrambles.
- Trail Details: 3.2-mile loop, hard difficulty, 3–4 hours.
- Location: Near Cold Spring, NY.
- Parking: Limited spots at the trailhead, fills up quickly.
- Public Transport: Metro-North Hudson Line stops at Breakneck Ridge station on weekends.
- Best Photo Spot: The first major overlook offers unbeatable Hudson River views framed by fiery trees.
2. Mount Beacon
Mount Beacon is another classic fall hike, combining history and scenery in one trail. The climb is moderate but steady, leading up to old ruins of an incline railway and a fire tower at the top.
- Trail Details: 4.4 miles round trip, moderate difficulty, 3 hours.
- Location: Beacon, NY.
- Parking: Dedicated lot at the base, but it fills by mid-morning.
- Public Transport: Metro-North to Beacon Station, then short cab/ride-share.
- Best Photo Spot: From the fire tower looking over Beacon and the Hudson River.
3. Anthony’s Nose
Anthony’s Nose is one of the most photographed fall hikes in New York. The short but steep trail takes you to a rocky outcrop overlooking the Hudson River and Bear Mountain Bridge.
It’s also a relatively quick hike, making it ideal for a half-day fall adventure.
- Trail Details: 2.6 miles round trip, moderate difficulty, 1.5–2 hours.
- Location: Cortlandt Manor, near Bear Mountain Bridge.
- Parking: Small roadside pull-off, limited capacity.
- Public Transport: Metro-North to Peekskill, then a short taxi ride.
- Best Photo Spot: The overlook with Bear Mountain Bridge framed by fall foliage.
4. Storm King Mountain
Storm King Mountain is famous for its wide-open vistas and dramatic views of the Hudson River.
If you want a hike that feels both peaceful and scenic, Storm King is a top choice.
- Trail Details: 2.5 miles loop, moderate difficulty, 2–3 hours.
- Location: Cornwall-on-Hudson, NY.
- Parking: Several trailheads with small lots.
- Public Transport: Best reached by car, though buses run to Cornwall from NYC.
- Best Photo Spot: The western ridge viewpoint over the Hudson River.
5. Mohonk Preserve
Mohonk Preserve offers one of the best spots for leaf peeping in the Hudson Valley. The trails range from easy walks to tougher climbs, all surrounded by glowing autumn trees.
The Shawangunk Ridge provides stunning backdrops, while spots like Bonticou Crag and the Labyrinth trail deliver panoramic views.
It’s also a great option for families since there are trails for all levels.
- Trail Details: Varies, popular Bonticou Crag loop is 3.5 miles, moderate difficulty.
- Location: New Paltz, NY.
- Parking/Permits: Day-use fee required for entry, large parking lots available.
- Public Transport: Short cab/ride-share from New Paltz bus station.
- Best Photo Spot: The summit of Bonticou Crag at sunset.
6. Minnewaska State Park
Minnewaska State Park is like a fall wonderland. With lakes, waterfalls, and cliffside trails, it’s one of the most scenic parks in the Hudson Valley.
During peak foliage, the trails around Lake Minnewaska and Awosting Falls look like something out of a painting. The wide carriage roads also make this a great option for casual hikers and bikers.
- Trail Details: Lake Minnewaska loop is 2 miles, easy. Awosting Falls is a short 1-mile walk.
- Location: Kerhonkson, NY.
- Parking/Permits: $10 vehicle entry fee. Parking lots near trailheads.
- Public Transport: Best accessed by car from New Paltz.
- Best Photo Spot: Awosting Falls with the forest in peak colors behind it.
7. Kaaterskill Falls Trail
Kaaterskill Falls is one of the tallest and most iconic waterfalls in New York, and fall is when it looks its best.
The hike to the falls isn’t too long, and when the surrounding forest is bursting with oranges and yellows, the two-tiered cascade becomes even more breathtaking.
- Trail Details: 1.6 miles round trip, easy to moderate, about 1 hour.
- Location: Hunter, NY, in the Catskills.
- Parking: Two main lots available, can fill fast on weekends.
- Public Transport: Trailhead best reached by car.
- Best Photo Spot: The base of the lower falls looking up at the cascade.
8. Overlook Mountain
Overlook Mountain in the Catskills gives you a little bit of everything—ruins of an old hotel, a fire tower with unbeatable 360-degree views, and forest trails.
- Trail Details: 4.6 miles out-and-back, moderate difficulty, 3–4 hours.
- Location: Woodstock, NY.
- Parking: Trailhead lot at the base, fills up quickly on weekends.
- Public Transport: Reachable by bus to Woodstock, then a short ride.
- Best Photo Spot: From the top of the fire tower with panoramic Catskill views.
9. Bear Mountain State Park
Bear Mountain is one of the most family-friendly fall hiking destinations in the Hudson Valley. The trails range from easy lakeside walks to more challenging routes leading up to Perkins Memorial Tower.
It’s also a popular spot for fall picnics and day trips.
- Trail Details: Varies; Major Welch Trail to Perkins Tower is 4 miles, moderate difficulty.
- Location: Bear Mountain, NY.
- Parking/Permits: Large lots with $10 entry fee.
- Public Transport: Easily reached by bus from NYC or Metro-North to Peekskill, then shuttle.
- Best Photo Spot: Perkins Memorial Tower observation deck.
Insider Tips for Fall 2025
- Peak Foliage Forecast: Based on current predictions, the second week of October 2025 will likely offer the best colors across the Hudson Valley.
- Hidden Gems Nearby: If the popular spots are too crowded, check out Black Creek Preserve or Sam’s Point Preserve for quieter foliage trails.
- Make it a Day Trip: Pair your hike with a stop at a local orchard or fall festival—apple cider, pumpkin patches, and farm markets make the experience even better.
Conclusion
Hudson Valley truly shines in autumn, and these nine hikes are the best of the best for 2025.
Whether you want a challenging climb with epic payoffs or a gentle trail surrounded by golden leaves, there’s something here for every kind of hiker
Read More: 9 Best Fishing Spots in Hudson Valley for Fall 2025
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