The best walks and hikes around Village of Highland Falls

Yes, the region offers several options suitable for families. The Brooks Pond & Popologen Gorge Trail loop is a great choice, offering a relatively flat 4.4-mile (7.1 km) path through forests and along the water. For an even more relaxed walk, the paved path around Hessian Lake in Bear Mountain State Park provides beautiful views of the surrounding mountains without any strenuous climbing.

Many trails in the Hudson Highlands are dog-friendly, but policies can vary by park and dogs must typically be kept on a leash. Bear Mountain State Park and Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve generally permit dogs on trails. Always check the specific regulations for the park you plan to visit before you go and be prepared to clean up after your pet.

The Popolopen Gorge Trail loop follows Popolopen Creek, which features cascades and a natural waterfall with a plunge pool. The flow is most impressive after a period of rain. This trail offers a great opportunity to enjoy the sights and sounds of flowing water as part of your hike.

The main difference is the terrain and objective. The Popolopen Torne loop is a challenging hike involving a steep, rocky scramble to a bald summit for panoramic views. In contrast, the Popolopen Gorge trail is a more moderate walk that stays low, following the creek through a wooded gorge, focusing on waterside scenery rather than high-elevation vistas.

Bear Mountain State Park has several large parking lots near Hessian Lake and the Bear Mountain Inn. These lots serve as the primary access for many popular trails, including those heading up Bear Mountain and into the Popolopen Gorge. A parking fee is typically charged, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arrive early as lots can fill up quickly.

The Metro-North Railroad's Hudson Line is a great option. The Manitou station is located right next to the trail network, providing direct access to hikes in the Hudson Highlands. The Hiking loop from Manitou is one example of a route that starts directly from the station, making for a convenient car-free day trip.

Expect varied and often rugged terrain. Trails frequently feature steep, rocky sections, significant elevation gain, and uneven footing. The paths are generally well-marked but can be challenging. Proper hiking footwear with good grip is essential. After rain, rocks and roots can become very slippery.

Yes, many of the most popular hikes in the area are loops, allowing you to experience a variety of scenery without backtracking. For a longer, moderately challenging loop, consider the Castle Rock Unique Area loop. It offers a diverse experience through Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve.

Public access to the United States Military Academy at West Point for hiking is generally restricted. While you can see the academy's grounds from viewpoints like the summit of Popolopen Torne, the hiking trails on the military reservation itself are not open to the general public. For hiking, focus on the adjacent state parks like Bear Mountain and Hudson Highlands.

Yes. The Perkins Memorial Drive in Bear Mountain State Park allows you to drive to the summit of Bear Mountain. From the parking area, it's a very short walk to the Perkins Memorial Tower, which offers spectacular 360-degree views of the Hudson Valley, the Bear Mountain Bridge, and on clear days, the New York City skyline.

The area is very highly regarded by the komoot community, with trails earning an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning panoramic views from the summits, the well-maintained trail networks, and the satisfying challenge of the rocky ascents.

There is an extensive network of trails to explore. On komoot, you can find over 130 different hiking routes around Highland Falls, ranging from easy lakeside walks to difficult mountain climbs, ensuring there's a trail for every skill level.