Attractions and Places To See around Ruby - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Ruby include a diverse landscape featuring historic rail trails, scenic lakes, and elevated viewpoints. This region offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and watersports. Visitors can explore natural features alongside historical structures that provide panoramic views. The area is characterized by its blend of accessible trails and significant landmarks.
Best attractions and places to see around Ruby
- The most popular attractions is Ashokan Rail Trail, a multi-use trail that…
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Overlook Mountain Fire Tower
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Onteora Lake
Highlight • Lake
Originally, the lake was created …
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Ashokan Rail Trail
Highlight • Trail
There are parking areas and restrooms at the trailheads.
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Wallkill Valley Rail Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Saugerties Lighthouse
Highlight • Monument
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful rail trail with parking at both ends.
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You cycle the entire route through the forest. The path is easy to cycle and, with its bridges, offers wonderful natural surroundings. There are parking spaces at both the beginning and the end.
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From the fire tower, the 360° view is impressive. The Ashokan Reservoir, the Hudson Valley and the small Echo Lake are visible from the top of the tower. Access is closed during the winter months. Luckily during our visit the ranger had come to open the tower since the weather was nice and it was the holidays. From the Overlook point, however, the view is limited by the trees.
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Trail hike around a lake. Be sure you have GPS with you could get lost. Trail not marked except by foot path.
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The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail totals roughly 22 miles in one direction. The path follows an old railroad line and is primarily packed-gravel surface the entire time. This is a multiuse trail, so be prepared to see other users on the trail. This particular section travels from the northern terminus just outside of Kingston down to Joppenbergh Mountain Park. The Rosendale Trestle Bridge just to the south of Joppenbergh Mountain is one of the more scenic viewpoints along the entire Wallkill Valley Rail Trail.
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The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail totals roughly 22 miles in one direction. The path follows an old railroad line and is primarily packed-gravel surface the entire time. This is a multiuse trail, so be prepared to see other users on the trail. This particular section travels from the northern terminus just outside of Kingston down to Joppenbergh Mountain Park. The Rosendale Trestle Bridge just to the south of Joppenbergh Mountain is one of the more scenic viewpoints along the entire Wallkill Valley Rail Trail.
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There are a handful of different trails in Bluestone Wild Forest where Onteora Lake is located. The lake is pretty big and has paths on both sides. This trail system can get busy since it's open to hikers, runners, and mountain bikers, so be sure to stay aware of other users.
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Originally built in the 1860s, the Saugerties Lighthouse played an important role in safe travel and navigation for vessels traveling the Hudson River. Today, it stands as a restored structure that was restored in a way to maintain its "look" and history. There is a gift shop and bed and breakfast located within the building.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Ruby?
The Ruby area offers diverse natural features. You can visit Onteora Lake, a tranquil spot perfect for watersports and picnics. The Ashokan Rail Trail runs alongside the scenic Ashokan Reservoir, providing beautiful views. Additionally, the Overlook Mountain Fire Tower offers panoramic vistas over the Hudson River Valley.
Are there good hiking trails near Ruby?
Yes, there are several excellent hiking opportunities. The Ashokan Rail Trail provides a multi-use path with a compact surface, suitable for walks. Onteora Lake features hiking trails of varying difficulty levels. For more challenging hikes with rewarding views, consider the trail leading to the Overlook Mountain Fire Tower. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking around Ruby guide.
What historical sites can I visit in the Ruby area?
History enthusiasts can explore the Overlook Mountain Fire Tower, a 60-foot structure built in 1950 that offers extensive views. Another significant historical landmark is the Saugerties Lighthouse, originally built in the 1860s, which played a crucial role in Hudson River navigation and now operates as a restored structure with a gift shop and bed and breakfast.
Are there family-friendly activities around Ruby?
Absolutely. The Ashokan Rail Trail is an excellent choice for families, offering an easy, multi-use path with parking and restrooms. Onteora Lake is also family-friendly, providing a tranquil setting for watersports and gentle walks. The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail is another multi-use path suitable for all ages.
Are there mountain biking opportunities near Ruby?
Yes, mountain biking is popular in the area. Onteora Lake features mountain biking trails of varying difficulty levels. You can also explore the Ashokan Rail Trail, which is suitable for cycling. For more detailed routes, check out the MTB Trails around Ruby guide.
What are some unique viewpoints in the Ruby area?
For breathtaking views, ascend the Overlook Mountain Fire Tower. This 60-foot tower provides extensive panoramic vistas over the Hudson River Valley and the Ashokan Reservoir. Another scenic spot is the Rosendale Trestle Bridge along the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, offering picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.
Are there wheelchair-accessible trails around Ruby?
The Ashokan Rail Trail is known for its compact surface, making it a good option for wheelchair users. It's a multi-use trail that runs beside the Ashokan Reservoir, offering an accessible way to enjoy the natural scenery.
Where can I find parking for attractions in the Ruby area?
Parking is available at several key attractions. The Ashokan Rail Trail has designated parking areas at its trailheads, complete with restrooms. Onteora Lake also offers convenient parking for visitors looking to enjoy the lake and its trails.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Ruby?
Visitors frequently praise the diverse landscape, from historic rail trails to scenic lakes and elevated viewpoints. The multi-use paths like the Ashokan Rail Trail are appreciated for their accessibility and beautiful natural surroundings. The panoramic views from the Overlook Mountain Fire Tower are also a major highlight, offering stunning vistas of the Hudson River Valley.
Are there any water-based activities available?
Yes, Onteora Lake is an excellent spot for watersports. It's a small, tranquil lake perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying a peaceful rest stop by the water.
What is the best time of year to visit Ruby?
The best time to visit Ruby largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for hiking and cycling, with autumn providing spectacular fall foliage, especially from viewpoints like the Overlook Mountain Fire Tower. Summer is ideal for watersports at Onteora Lake and enjoying the rail trails.
Are there dog-friendly walking options near Ruby?
Many of the multi-use trails in the Ruby area are dog-friendly. The Ashokan Rail Trail and the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail are popular choices for walks with your canine companion, provided they are kept on a leash.
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