Attractions and Places To See around Hillside - Top 15

The Hillside area, particularly near Rosendale, New York, is rich in natural and recreational features. Top outdoor attractions include the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, known for its scenic views and the iconic Rosendale Trestle Bridge. The Ashokan Rail Trail offers a compact surface for cycling and walking beside the Ashokan Reservoir. For watersports and tranquil settings, Onteora Lake is a popular choice.

Yes, the Rosendale Trestle Bridge along the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail offers great views of the Rosendale area. Additionally, the Hudson River Overlook provides a nice lookout over the trees, extending to the Hudson River.

The Hillside area is well-known for its multi-use rail trails. The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail is a 22-mile path following an old railroad line, primarily packed-gravel, suitable for both cycling and walking. The Ashokan Rail Trail is another excellent option, offering a compact surface for cycling and walking through the forest beside the Ashokan Reservoir.

Absolutely. Many of the rail trails, such as the Ashokan Rail Trail and the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, are considered family-friendly due to their relatively flat, multi-use surfaces. Onteora Lake also offers a tranquil setting for picnics and gentle walks, making it suitable for families.

For watersports and a peaceful lakeside experience, Onteora Lake is an excellent choice. It's a small lake perfect for watersports, rest stops, and picnics, with mountain biking and hiking trails nearby.

Yes, Onteora Lake features mountain biking trails of varying difficulty levels. The Ashokan Rail Trail, while primarily for cycling and walking, also offers a suitable surface for mountain biking.

For easy hikes, you can explore routes like the Onteora Lake Loop Trail (approximately 6 km) or the Red Trail (around 2.3 km). The Hudson River Brickyard Trail is another easy option at about 1.3 km. These trails offer accessible paths for a relaxed outdoor experience.

The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail is a multi-use path totaling roughly 22 miles in one direction. It follows an old railroad line and is primarily a packed-gravel surface. The Rosendale Trestle Bridge is a notable scenic viewpoint along this trail. Parking areas are available at various points along the trail, including at trailheads for the Ashokan Rail Trail which connects to the wider network.

Beyond exploring the attractions themselves, the Hillside area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the Onteora Lake Loop Trail or the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. Road cycling is also popular, with routes such as the Kingston to Upper Ashokan Reservoir. Watersports are available at Onteora Lake.

Visitors particularly appreciate the scenic beauty and the accessibility of the trails. The Rosendale Trestle Bridge is frequently highlighted for its great views. The multi-use nature of trails like the Ashokan Rail Trail is also highly valued, offering pleasant cycling and walking experiences through natural surroundings.

While not explicitly 'hidden,' the Rosendale Trestle Bridge, with its slightly weathered wooden boards, offers a unique historical charm as part of the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. The tranquil setting of Onteora Lake, originally created by damming the Esopus Creek, provides a serene escape that some might consider a local gem.

Based on general outdoor activity recommendations for the region, the best time to visit is typically from March to October. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, making it ideal for hiking, cycling, and watersports, and you can often enjoy blooming wildflowers.