The best hikes from bus stations in Storm King State Park
4.7
(166)
2,303
hikers
3
hikes
Hiking in Storm King State Park offers rugged terrain and diverse trail options within the Hudson Highlands, approximately 56 miles north of New York City. The park features Storm King Mountain and Butter Hill, providing expansive vistas of the Hudson River and surrounding landscapes. Trails navigate through dense forests, rocky ridges, and varied woodland, including serene wetlands like Sphagnum Pond. The topography includes steep, rocky ascents to exposed ridges and summits.
Best bus station hiking trails in Storm King State…
Last updated: April 30, 2026
4
hikers
6.15km
01:38
70m
70m
Explore the Storm King Art Center on an easy 3.8-mile hike, discovering monumental sculptures set against the Hudson Highlands.
5.0
(1)
12
hikers
14.8km
05:40
750m
750m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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10
hikers
6.90km
02:24
340m
340m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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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A metal staircase helps to overcome the first steep climb. Since all trails start/end here, the stairs protect nature. Because all hikers have to go through here and so the stairs protect the mountain from erosion.
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It is difficult to walk through all the viewpoints. But most show the Hudson River. The reservoir is different here...
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Great view point from Breakneck Ridge of Lake Surprise and Lake Surprise Camp.
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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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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 bus station hiking trails are available in Storm King State Park?
There are 3 hiking routes in Storm King State Park that are accessible from bus stations, offering a range of difficulties from easy to difficult.
What kind of views can I expect on hikes from bus stations in Storm King State Park?
The park is renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Hudson Valley, the Hudson River, and the Catskill Mountains. Trails often lead to exposed ridges and summits like Storm King Mountain and North Point Summit, providing expansive vistas.
Are there any easy hikes accessible by bus in Storm King State Park?
Yes, for an easier experience, consider the Storm King Art Center route. This hike is approximately 6.1 kilometers long with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for a relaxed outing.
What are some challenging bus-accessible hikes in the area?
For a more strenuous adventure, the View of Lake Surprise – Stairs loop from Beacon offers a difficult 14.7-kilometer route with significant elevation gain, rewarding hikers with expansive views and a true workout.
What is the best time of year to hike in Storm King State Park from a bus station?
Spring and fall are generally considered the best times for hiking in Storm King State Park. Spring brings lush greenery and wildflowers, while fall offers spectacular foliage. Summers can be warm and humid, and winters may present icy conditions on trails, especially on steep sections.
Are there any family-friendly bus-accessible trails?
While the park's terrain is generally rugged, the easier routes like the Storm King Art Center hike can be suitable for families looking for a less strenuous walk. Always check the specific trail details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.
Can I bring my dog on these bus-accessible trails?
Storm King State Park is generally dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Be aware that some trails feature rocky scrambles and steep sections, which might be challenging for some dogs. Always carry enough water for both yourself and your pet.
What kind of natural features will I encounter on these hikes?
Hikers will experience diverse landscapes, including dense forests, rocky ridges, and serene wetlands like Sphagnum Pond. The park's unique topography features stunted scrub oaks, pitch pine, blueberry, and laurel, contributing to its distinct natural beauty.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Storm King State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 166 ratings. Reviewers often praise the challenging yet rewarding climbs, the stunning panoramic views of the Hudson Valley, and the immersive natural experience of the rugged terrain.
Are there any moderate bus-accessible hikes available?
Yes, for a moderately challenging experience, consider the Mount Beacon Park – Stairs loop from Beacon. This route covers approximately 6.9 kilometers with a notable elevation gain, offering a good balance of effort and reward.
Are there any specific points of interest or landmarks along these bus-accessible routes?
While the routes themselves offer natural beauty, the broader Storm King State Park area features notable landmarks such as Storm King Mountain and North Point Summit, both offering exceptional viewpoints. You might also encounter sections of a winding cliffside country road with beautiful views.
Most popular routes in Storm King State Park
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