Top 13 Trails and Hikes in Cold Spring, NY You Can’t Miss

If you are looking for a scenic and adventurous getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city, you should definitely check out the hikes in Cold Spring, NY. Cold Spring is a charming village on the Hudson River, about an hour and a half drive from New York City. It offers a variety of trails and hikes for all levels of hikers, from easy strolls to challenging climbs.

You can enjoy the stunning views of the river, the mountains, the forests, and the historic sites along the way. Whether you are looking for a day trip or a weekend escape, you will find plenty of hikes in Cold Spring NY that will suit your taste and mood. In this blog post, let’s find out the top 13 trails and hikes in Cold Spring, NY, that you can’t miss.

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Here are the Top 13 Trails and Hikes in Cold Spring, NY

#1: Breakneck Ridge Loop

One of the most popular and challenging hikes in Cold Spring, NY, is the Breakneck Ridge Loop. This hike is not for the faint of heart, as it involves steep ascents, scrambles, and rock ledges. You will need to use your hands and feet to climb up some sections of the trail. However, the reward is worth the effort, as you will be greeted by breathtaking views of the Hudson River, the Hudson Highlands, and the surrounding towns.

The loop is about 3.7 miles long and takes about 4 hours to complete. You can also extend your hike by following the Wilkinson Memorial Trail or the Cornish Trail to explore more of the area. If you are looking for a thrilling and exhilarating hike, this is the one for you.

#2: Bull Hill (Mt. Taurus) Loop

Another challenging and rewarding hike in Cold Spring, NY, is the Bull Hill (Mt. Taurus) Loop. This hike takes you to the summit of Bull Hill, also known as Mt. Taurus, which is the second-highest peak in the Hudson Highlands. Along the way, you will pass by scenic overlooks, waterfalls, ruins, and wildflowers.

The loop is about 5.5 miles long and takes about 3.5 hours to complete. You can also customize your hike by choosing different trails, such as the Washburn Trail, the Notch Trail, the Nelsonville Trail, or the Undercliff Trail. This hike is a great way to experience the beauty and diversity of the Hudson Highlands.

#3: Little Stony Point Loop

If you are looking for a short and easy hikes in Cold Spring, NY, you should try the Little Stony Point Loop. This hike is perfect for families, kids, and beginners, as it is only 1.2 miles long and takes about 30 minutes to complete. The hike starts at Little Stony Point Park, where you can enjoy a picnic, a swim, or a kayak on the beach. Then, you can follow the trail along the Hudson River, where you can admire the views of Breakneck Ridge, Storm King Mountain, and Bannerman Castle.

The loop also takes you through a wooded area, where you can spot some wildlife and plants. This hike is a great way to relax and enjoy nature in Cold Spring, NY.

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#4: Cornish Estate Trail

If you are interested in history and architecture, you should check out the Cornish Estate Trail in Cold Spring, NY. This hike takes you to the ruins of the Cornish Estate, which was a lavish mansion built in the 1910s by Edward and Selina Cornish. The estate was abandoned in the 1950s and was destroyed by a fire in the 1970s. Now, you can explore the remnants of the house, the gardens, the swimming pool, the tennis court, and the farm buildings.

The hike is about 4.5 miles long and takes about 2.5 hours to complete. You can also combine this hike with the Breakneck Ridge Loop or the Bull Hill Loop for a longer and more challenging adventure. This hike is a fascinating way to learn about the history and culture of Cold Spring, NY.

#5: Arden Point and Glenclyffe Loop

If you are looking for a peaceful and scenic hikes in Cold Spring, NY, you should try the Arden Point and Glenclyffe Loop. This hike takes you to two peninsulas on the Hudson River, where you can enjoy the views of the West Point Military Academy, the Garrison Art Center, and the Boscobel House and Gardens.

The hike is about 3.7 miles long and takes about 2 hours to complete. You can also visit the Garrison Landing, where you can see the historic train station, the old ferry dock, and the Guinan’s Country Store. This hike is a great way to appreciate the charm and tranquility of Cold Spring, NY.

#6: Sugarloaf Hill and Osborn Loop

If you are looking for a moderate and varied hikes in Cold Spring, NY, you should try the Sugarloaf Hill and Osborn Loop. This hike takes you to the summit of Sugarloaf Hill, which offers panoramic views of the Hudson River, the Hudson Highlands, and the Catskill Mountains. Along the way, you will also pass by the Osborn Castle, which is a Gothic Revival mansion built in the 1850s by William Henry Osborn.

The hike is about 6.5 miles long and takes about 3.5 hours to complete. You can also extend your hike by following the Carriage Connector Trail or the School Mountain Road Trail to explore more of the area. This hike is a great way to experience the natural and historical wonders of Cold Spring, NY.

#7: North Redoubt and South Redoubt Loop

If you are looking for a historical and adventurous hikes in Cold Spring, NY, you should try the North Redoubt and South Redoubt Loop. This hike takes you to two fortifications that were built during the American Revolution to protect the Hudson River from the British. The North Redoubt and the South Redoubt are located on opposite sides of the river, and you can see the remains of the walls, the cannons, and the plaques.

The hike is about 4.8 miles long and takes about 3 hours to complete. You can also visit the Fort Montgomery State Historic Site, where you can learn more about the history and the battles of the area. This hike is a great way to discover the heritage and the spirit of Cold Spring, NY.

#8: Mystery Point and Audubon Sanctuary Loop

If you are looking for a wildlife and nature hikes in Cold Spring, NY, you should try the Mystery Point and Audubon Sanctuary Loop. This hike takes you to the Mystery Point, which is a secluded and scenic spot on the Hudson River, where you can enjoy the views of the Storm King Mountain, the Pollepel Island, and the Breakneck Ridge. You can also visit the Audubon Sanctuary, which is a birdwatching paradise, where you can see various species of birds, such as bald eagles, ospreys, hawks, and warblers.

The hike is about 2.5 miles long and takes about 1.5 hours to complete. You can also explore the Constitution Marsh, which is a wetland habitat that supports a diverse ecosystem. This hike is a great way to appreciate the wildlife and the ecology of Cold Spring, NY.

#9: Manitou Point Preserve Loop

If you are looking for a relaxing and picturesque hikes in Cold Spring, NY, you should try the Manitou Point Preserve Loop. This hike takes you to the Manitou Point Preserve, which is a 144-acre property that was donated by the Osborn family to the Nature Conservancy. The preserve features a variety of trails that wind through the woods, the fields, and the shoreline. You can enjoy the views of the Hudson River, the Bear Mountain Bridge, and the Anthony’s Nose.

The hike is about 3.5 miles long and takes about 2 hours to complete. You can also visit the Manitou Station, which is a historic train station that dates back to the 1800s. This hike is a great way to unwind and enjoy the scenery of Cold Spring, NY.

#10: Hudson Highlands Gateway Park Loop

If you are looking for a fun and diverse hikes in Cold Spring, NY, you should try the Hudson Highlands Gateway Park Loop. This hike takes you to the Hudson Highlands Gateway Park, which is a 352-acre park that was created by the Hudson Highlands Land Trust. The park offers a variety of trails that range from easy to hard, and that showcase the different landscapes and features of the area. You can enjoy the views of the Hudson River, the Bear Mountain Bridge, and the Anthony’s Nose.

#11: Fahnestock State Park Loop

If you are looking for a long and adventurous hikes in Cold Spring, NY, you should try the Fahnestock State Park Loop. This hike takes you to the Fahnestock State Park, which is a 14,086-acre park that offers over 50 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The park features diverse terrain, such as hills, valleys, lakes, streams, and swamps. You can enjoy the views of the Canopus Lake, the Pelton Pond, the Jordan Pond, and the Clove Creek.

The hike is about 12 miles long and takes about 6 hours to complete. You can also camp, fish, boat, or swim in the park. This hike is a great way to explore the wilderness and the recreation of Cold Spring, NY.

#12: Hudson Highlands Fjord Trail

If you are looking for a scenic and historic hikes in Cold Spring, NY, you should try the Hudson Highlands Fjord Trail. This hike takes you to the Hudson Highlands Fjord Trail, which is a planned 9-mile trail that will connect the villages of Cold Spring and Beacon along the Hudson River. The trail will pass by the Breakneck Ridge, the Little Stony Point, the Foundry Dock Park, the West Point Foundry Preserve, the Long Dock Park, and the Dennings Point. You can enjoy the views of the river, the mountains, the islands, and the bridges.

The hike is about 9 miles long and takes about 4.5 hours to complete. You can also take the Metro-North train to or from either end of the trail. This hike is a great way to experience the culture and the beauty of Cold Spring, NY.

#13: Surprise Lake Loop

Another fun and easy hikes in Cold Spring, NY, you should try the Surprise Lake Loop. This hike takes you to Surprise Lake, which is a small and serene lake that was formed by a glacier. The lake is also home to the oldest continuously operating summer camp in the country, the Surprise Lake Camp, which was founded in 1902 by the Jewish Working Boys’ Vacation Society.

The hike is about 2.5 miles long and takes about 1.5 hours to complete. You can also swim, fish, or picnic at the lake. This hike is a great way to enjoy the history and the nature of Cold Spring, NY.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are plenty of hikes in Cold Spring, NY, that you can choose from. Whether you are looking for a short and easy hike, a long and hard hike, or something in between, you will find a hike that will match your preference and skill level. You will also get to enjoy the stunning views, the rich history, and the diverse wildlife of the area.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your hiking boots, pack your snacks, and head to Cold Spring, NY, for an unforgettable hiking adventure. You won’t regret it.