The best walks and hikes around Newburgh
4.7
(164)
2,091
hikers
72
hikes
Hiking around Newburgh, NY, offers diverse outdoor experiences within the scenic Hudson Valley. The region is characterized by the majestic Hudson Highlands, the sprawling Shawangunk Ridge, and the winding Wallkill River. Situated along the Hudson River, Newburgh provides waterfront views and access to varied natural landscapes, including forests, hills, and urban green spaces.
Best hiking trails around Newburgh
- The most popular hiking route is North & South Beacon Mountains Hike — Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, a 4.5 miles (7.2 km) moderate trail that takes about 2 hours 34 minutes to complete. This route offers impressive views of the Hudson Valley.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Bald Hill Loop – Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, a difficult 9.8 miles (15.8 km) path. This challenging loop provides a strenuous experience within the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve.
- Local hikers also love the North & South Beacon Mountains loop — Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, a 12.0 miles (19.3 km) trail leading through the rugged terrain of the Hudson Highlands, often completed in about 6 hours 12 minutes.
- Hiking around Newburgh is defined by the dramatic Hudson Highlands, the expansive Shawangunk Ridge, and picturesque riverfront paths. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy urban walks to challenging mountain ascents.
- The routes in Newburgh are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 170 reviews. More than 2,300 hikers have used komoot to explore Newburgh's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
5.0
(2)
15
hikers
3.22km
01:17
370m
10m
The Casino Trail offers a robust hiking experience near Beacon, New York, known for its steep ascent and rewarding views. This moderate route covers 2.0 miles (3.2 km) and climbs 1202 feet (366 metres) in about 1 hour and 16 minutes, making it a solid challenge for those ready for a workout. You'll navigate rocky terrain and switchbacks, with the path often following the course of the historic Mount Beacon Incline Railway.
Planning your visit requires sturdy hiking shoes due to the strenuous climb and eroded sections. Dogs are permitted on leash, so feel free to bring your furry friend along. The trail is particularly stunning in autumn when the fall foliage paints the Hudson Highlands in vibrant colors, offering a picturesque backdrop to your hike.
This trail is notable for its historical elements, including remnants of the world's steepest funicular line and the intriguing old casino ruins, which provide excellent viewpoints. From various spots, you'll enjoy panoramic vistas of the Hudson River and Valley, and for those who continue, the South Beacon Mountain Fire Tower offers 360-degree views that can even stretch to New York City on clear days.
5
hikers
8.78km
02:45
400m
270m
The Mount Beacon via Notch and Wilkinson Memorial Trail offers a compelling journey through varied terrain, characterized by a consistent uphill climb. As you ascend, you'll encounter the fascinating Ruins of the Mount Beacon Incline Railway Powerhouse, a historical landmark that adds a unique dimension to the natural landscape. This route is a great option for those who enjoy a steady physical challenge and appreciate a blend of outdoor activity with a touch of local history.
Planning your visit to the Mount Beacon via Notch and Wilkinson Memorial Trail is straightforward, though specific parking details are not provided. It's generally a good idea to arrive early, especially on busy days, to ensure a smooth start to your hike. The trail is rated moderate, covering 5.5 miles (8.8 km) with 1300 feet (396 metres) of elevation gain, and typically takes around 2 hours and 44 minutes to complete. Consider the best time to visit, with spring and fall often offering ideal weather conditions.
This trail stands out in the Dutchess County area for its combination of natural beauty and historical significance, particularly the remnants of the incline railway. It provides a robust hiking experience that is both accessible and rewarding, making it a popular choice for those looking to explore the region's outdoor offerings. The sustained elevation gain makes it a good test of endurance, while the historical highlight offers a unique point of interest.
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2.71km
00:41
0m
10m
Enjoy an easy 1.7-mile hike across the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge, offering scenic views of the Hudson River, Mount Beacon, and Bannerman's Cast
4.6
(5)
127
hikers
7.23km
02:34
410m
410m
The Casino Trail offers a rewarding, albeit strenuous, journey through the Hudson Highlands, leading you past historical remnants and up to breathtaking vistas. You'll navigate a path that starts with gravel, quickly moves to a metal staircase, and then becomes a steep, rocky climb with numerous switchbacks. The effort is well worth it for the expansive views of the Hudson River and the City of Beacon that unfold as you ascend, especially vibrant during autumn's peak colors.
Planning your visit means preparing for a challenging ascent; the trail gains approximately 1,000 feet in elevation over roughly one mile. Proper hiking shoes with good grip are essential, and trekking poles can provide welcome stability on the uneven, sometimes eroded, and potentially slippery terrain. Due to its popularity and proximity to New York City, arriving early on weekends is a good strategy to secure parking and enjoy a less crowded experience.
This trail is notable for its blend of natural beauty and historical significance, following the path of the former Beacon Incline Railway, once the world's steepest funicular. At the summit, you can explore the intriguing ruins of an old casino and an intact cable house, offering a glimpse into the past before continuing to the Mount Beacon fire tower for truly panoramic 360-degree views.
4.5
(2)
10
hikers
15.8km
05:07
670m
670m
The Mount Beacon, Scofield Ridge, and Fishkill Ridge Loop offers a truly diverse hiking experience, blending challenging ascents with expansive views across the Hudson Valley. You'll start with a steep climb, often on stairs, reminiscent of the old incline railway, before traversing varied terrain from footpaths to bare rock ridges. Keep an eye out for the historic Mount Beacon Fire Tower, which provides an incredible 360-degree panorama, and the picturesque Dry Brook Falls, especially vibrant after spring rains. This route is a demanding 9.8 miles (15.8 km) with 2206 feet (672 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 5 hours and 7 minutes to complete, making it a difficult but rewarding adventure for those seeking a substantial day hike.
Planning your visit requires a bit of foresight. The trailhead parking can get crowded, so an early start is highly recommended, particularly on fair-weather weekends. Be aware that navigation can be complex due to the network of trails and potentially unreliable cell service, so downloading your route offline is a smart move. While the initial climb is strenuous, some later sections offer a more moderate pace. Spring and autumn are ideal for experiencing the trail's natural beauty, with lush waterfalls and stunning fall foliage respectively.
Beyond the physical challenge, this loop is rich in history and ecological significance. You'll encounter remnants of the world's steepest passenger funicular and a Daughters of the American Revolution monument on North Beacon Mountain, commemorating a Revolutionary War signal beacon. The area is also recognized as one of the Hudson Valley's most ecologically diverse landscapes, home to various tree species and unique ridge-top flora. This blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and varied terrain makes the Mount Beacon, Scofield Ridge, and Fishkill Ridge Loop a standout among challenging hikes in the region.
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Tips from the Community
If you're in New York and want to go hiking, this is the ideal place. Easily accessible by train, scenically beautiful, and interwoven with many trails of varying difficulty.
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Mount Beacon Park, part of the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, is beautiful, with fantastic hiking trails and spectacular panoramic views. The park's trails, which range from moderate to challenging, lead to the summit of South Beacon Mountain, with a restored 60-foot fire tower, offering breathtaking vistas that stretch from the Manhattan skyline to the Catskill Mountains, especially on a clear day. The park is also home to the remnants of the historic Mount Beacon Incline Railway, once the world's steepest, and the foundations of an old casino and hotel, adding a unique historical dimension to the natural beauty of this area.
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Quiet and not busy for cyclists compared to Tapan Zee or GWB.
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From Bald Hill, you can enjoy great views of the surrounding hills. It's a very peaceful spot!
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The view from the tower is impressive, no question about it. We visited the place on a hike from Beacon to Cold Spring and be careful: the way down towards Cold Spring is much steeper than the ascent and goes over some rocks. In the alpine area it would be an easy via ferrata. Be especially careful with children and use appropriate shoes.
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As you can see in the photos, the station is also worth a visit because of the station, at least for tech-savvy people. The number of transmitter systems on the masts is impressive and the location is ideal as a transmitter location. To all amateur radio operators: take your transceiver with you!
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Only the outer walls of the cable car building have been preserved, the roof is completely missing. On the other hand, it is easy to get to the remains of the machines, which are quite well preserved. Two large electric motors where you can still see the wire windings, huge gears with a few teeth missing. I find it remarkable that the foundations are concreted, but the bases for the machinery were built from bricks on top of them. These bricks are likely to have had a rather poor quality, because they are almost completely weathered, which means that the complex has settled a lot.
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Erected in 1931 so rangers could spot forest fires in the Hudson valley. You can climb to the top and see great 360 degree views. The elevation at the top is around 1,765 ft. above sea level.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Newburgh?
The Newburgh area offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 65 routes available. These trails cater to different skill levels, from easy strolls to challenging mountain ascents, all within the scenic Hudson Valley.
What types of hiking trails can I expect in the Newburgh area?
You'll find a diverse range of trails, from easy paths suitable for families to more strenuous climbs. Approximately 13 routes are considered easy, 38 are moderate, and 14 are difficult. The landscape includes the dramatic Hudson Highlands, the expansive Shawangunk Ridge, and picturesque riverfront paths along the Hudson River.
Are there any easy or family-friendly hiking options near Newburgh?
Yes, Newburgh offers several easy and family-friendly options. The region features rail trails like the Hudson Valley Rail Trail, which are typically flat and accessible. Within the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, the Notch Trail to Melzingah Reservoir loop is an easy 5 km route, perfect for a relaxed outing.
Can I bring my dog on hikes around Newburgh?
Many trails in the Newburgh area, especially those within state parks and preserves, are dog-friendly, usually requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific park regulations before heading out, but generally, the region welcomes leashed dogs on its hiking paths.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the Newburgh area?
Yes, there are several excellent circular routes. For a challenging experience, consider the Bald Hill Loop – Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, a difficult 15.8 km path. Another popular option is the North & South Beacon Mountains loop — Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, which covers 19.3 km of rugged terrain.
Where can I find scenic views or landmarks on the trails?
The Newburgh area is rich in scenic viewpoints. The Bull Hill (Mount Taurus) Summit offers panoramic views, extending to the New York City skyline on clear days. You can also find impressive vistas from Breakneck Ridge and South Beacon Mountain, which also features a firetower.
Are there any waterfalls to see while hiking near Newburgh?
Yes, the region is home to Brook Falls, an approximately 400-foot waterfall located on Dry Brook. It's a notable natural highlight accessible via a trailhead at the end of Pocket Road, offering a beautiful natural spectacle.
What are some more challenging hikes in the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve?
For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve offers several strenuous routes. The Bald Hill Loop is a difficult 15.8 km path. Another demanding option is the Breakneck Ridge via Notch Trail loop, known for its challenging ascents and rewarding views.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Newburgh?
The hiking trails around Newburgh are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 170 reviews. Hikers often praise the dramatic scenery of the Hudson Highlands, the diverse terrain, and the rewarding views from various summits.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Newburgh?
The Hudson Valley, including Newburgh, is particularly stunning during the autumn months when the fall foliage transforms the landscape into vibrant colors. Spring and early summer also offer pleasant hiking conditions with lush greenery, while winter can provide unique, serene experiences for those prepared for colder weather.
Are there any historical sites or ruins to explore along the trails?
Yes, the area around Newburgh is rich in history. You can explore the Ruins of the Mount Beacon Incline Railway Powerhouse or the Cornish Estate Ruins (North Gate). These sites offer a glimpse into the region's past amidst beautiful natural settings.
Are there any trails that offer views of the Hudson River?
Absolutely. Many trails in the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve provide stunning views of the Hudson River. The North & South Beacon Mountains Hike is a moderate trail that offers impressive vistas of the valley and the river below.
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