Walkway Over the Hudson – Dutchess Rail Trail loop from Vassar College
Walkway Over the Hudson – Dutchess Rail Trail loop from Vassar College
2.8
(17)
99
riders
Walkway Over the Hudson – Dutchess Rail Trail loop from Vassar College
03:09
65.0km
620m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 19, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
20.6 km
Stonykill Environmental Education Center
Nature Reserve
27.5 km
Newburgh-Beacon Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
54.1 km
Rail Trail Between Walkway Over the Hudson and Highland
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
56.2 km
Walkway Over the Hudson
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
56.6 km
Elevator on the Walkway on the Hudson
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
58.0 km
Dutchess Rail Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
The trail runs from Hopewell Junction to the Walkway Over the Hudson in the City of Poughkeepsie
Tip by
65.0 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
25.7 km
22.3 km
8.97 km
8.10 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
41.4 km
23.3 km
311 m
119 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (110 m)
Lowest point (0 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Friday 10 July
31°C
21°C
49 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 7.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
The Walkway Over the Hudson – Dutchess Rail Trail loop from Vassar College is one of those road cycling routes worth your time: a moderate 40.4 miles (65.0 km) route with 2037 feet (621 metres) of climbing over roughly 3 hours and 9 minutes. This popular route offers a fantastic blend of easy, paved rail trail cycling and stunning views, making it a great option for cyclists looking for a rewarding day out with varied terrain.
What to expect on Walkway Over the Hudson – Dutchess Rail Trail loop from Vassar College
Expect a journey that transitions from the tree-lined paths near Vassar College to the expansive, paved Dutchess Rail Trail. This part of the route is generally flat and level, winding through wooded areas and local parks. The highlight is undoubtedly the Walkway Over the Hudson, where you'll cycle 212 feet above the water, taking in spectacular panoramic views of the Hudson River, the Catskills, and the Hudson Highlands. While much of the ride is on dedicated paths, completing the full loop involves some on-road sections, including a steep hill, which contributes to the moderate difficulty and makes it best suited for cyclists comfortable with mixed terrain.
Planning your visit
Starting from Vassar College offers convenient access to the loop. Be aware that connecting to and from the rail trail, especially near the Poughkeepsie train station, might involve navigating some on-road segments with potential traffic. The trails themselves are well-maintained and offer amenities like restrooms and visitor centers at both ends of the Walkway, making it easy to plan stops. For the best experience and to avoid crowds, consider an early start, especially on weekends, to enjoy the scenic viewpoints.
Trail details
- Distance: 40.4 miles (65.0 km)
- Elevation gain: 2037 feet (621 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 9 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free