Best Appalachian Trail Day Hikes in the Hudson Valley

Appalachian Trail day hikes in the Hudson Valley are a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy breathtaking scenery.

The Appalachian Trail, known as the AT, stretches over 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine. While the Hudson Valley doesn’t have steep rocky peaks of the White Mountains in New Hampshire, it offers memorable hiking opportunities.

While you’ll see plenty of Trump signs driving through the Hudson Valley, New York is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly states and this area is no exception! Hudson Valley locals are super friendly and pretty “live and let live.” I’ve always found it a welcoming place to be openly queer.

Here are a few of the best AT day hikes in the Hudson Valley for your hiking bucket list:

AT Day Hikes in the Hudson Valley

Bear Mountain, Bear Mountain State Park

Located within Bear Mountain State Park, the Bear Mountain section of the AT offers stunning vistas, including the iconic Perkins Memorial Tower. The hike to the summit provides panoramic views of the Hudson River and the surrounding valleys, making it a favorite among hikers.

Anthony’s Nose

Do you want to a bag a peak or get boots on the AT with minimal effort?

Just south of Bear Mountain, Anthony’s Nose is a rewarding hike that features dramatic rock formations and impressive views of the Hudson River. The trail is only 2.6 miles up and back–but most of that is straight uphill.

As you ascend, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramas that make it an excellent spot for photography.

Nuclear Lake, Fahnestock State Park

This beautiful state park is home to a section of the AT that offers diverse terrain and picturesque landscapes. One of my favorite AT day hikes in the Hudson Valley is the Nuclear Lake section of the AT.

The lake got its name from a long-gone nuclear facility in the area. Don’t worry: any waste has been removed. These days, you just might see dirty thru hikers enjoying a dip in the clear waters!

This is a pretty easy hike, with good reward for low effort. I’ve done it in winter and think it would be a great snowshoe hike. It’s also good if you’re hiking with kids and want a trail that’s not too long or challenging, but not a total snooze.

Dover Oak Loop

Located near Pawling, New York, this loop trail takes you through the Harlem Valley and offers a chance to see the impressive Dover Oak, the largest oak tree on the AT. The tree is over 300 years old!

Start your trail near the MetroNorth Appalachian Trail stop, along NY Route 22. Look for the Appalachian Trail Boardwalk, which takes you across the Great Swamp, a massive freshwater wetland. Cross the Swamp River at the end of the boardwalk and the trails slopes up, through forests and farmlands. At the top of the hill, you’ll spot the massive oak you came to see.

If you’re looking for an easy day hike with a peaceful and scenic hiking experience, this is one of the shorter hikes on the list.

Looking for a longer hike? You can combine the Dover Oak Trail with a Nuclear Lake hike!

AT Day Hikes in Connecticut

This was supposed to be day hikes in the Hudson Valley, right?

Yes, and…some of the best day hikes on the Appalachian Trail are just across the state border in Connecticut. Not only are these hikes amazing in and of themselves, they’re closer to the Hudson Valley than some of the New York hikes listed above.

It all depends on where you’re coming from. If you’re looking for hikes near Kingston, NY for example, you’re halfway between Kent, CT and Bear Mountain State Park. So you could go in either direction for a great hike.

Bull’s Bridge to Ten Mile River

This section of the Appalachian Trail near Kent, CT offers a picturesque hike along the Housatonic River. Start at Bull’s Bridge, a historic covered bridge, and follow the trail northward until you reach Ten Mile River. Enjoy the tranquil river views and the peacefulness of the surrounding forests.

Bull’s Bridge to Ten Mile River is a 4.4 mile RT hike, which is fairly flat with a long long in the middle. There’s lots of poison ivy along the trail, so be warned!

St. John’s Ledges

Located just south of Kent, this challenging hike takes you to St. John’s Ledges, offering stunning panoramic views of the Housatonic River Valley. The trail ascends steeply through rocky terrain, but the rewarding vista at the top makes it well worth the effort. You can do a short but steep up and down St. John’s Ledges to get a workout in. Or for a longer challenge, attempt the 8.6 mile connector trail between Glacier Rock and St. John’s Ledges.

One tip–given the steep terrain and rocky cliffs, DO NOT attempt a St. John’s hike when it’s wet or snowy!

St. John’s Ledges are a popular rock climbing spot, so this area gets EXTREMELY crowded in summer. Go early or in the middle of the week to avoid the crowds.

Macedonia Brook State Park, home to Connecticut’s AT highpoint

Just a short drive from Kent, this state park is home to the highest point on the Appalachian Trail in Connecticut. The 3.7-mile Cobble Mountain Loop Trail in Macedonia Brook State Park takes you through diverse forested landscapes, leading to panoramic views from Cobble Mountain. It’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding area.

My tip: Do this Hudson Valley day hike in fall to see the Taconic and Catskill Mountains lit up with autumn colors!

Pine Knob Loop in Housatonic Meadows State Park

This loop hike near Kent, Connecticut offers a mix of wooded paths and open vistas. The trail leads to Pine Knob, where you can enjoy scenic views of the rolling hills and farmland of western Connecticut.

What to Pack for a Day Hike

Day hikers are told to bring the ten essentials for hiking. Use this checklist to pack your bag:

• Backpack to hold everything
• Water – at least 1 liter of water per person, more depending on weather and distance.
• Snacks/food – always bring more than you need!
• Navigation Tools: You smartphone AND a paper map
• Sun protection
• Layers: Always layer up based on the weather. Hudson Valley weather changes often so you never know when you might need an extra fleece or rain jacket!
• First aid kit: If you’re clumsy like me, you never know when you’ll cut yourself on a hike!
• Multi-tool or knife: Carry it just in case
• Flashlight/headlamp: You don’t want to get caught in the dark on a trail. Always take along a small light so you don’t get caught unprepared if the trail takes longer than expected
• Emergency Shelter: A space blanket or small tarp is wise protection in case of inclement weather.
• Don’t forget: tell someone where you’re going hiking and when you plan to be back!

These AT day hikes in the Hudson Valley offer a mix of natural beauty, varied terrain, and stunning vistas. Lace up your hiking boots, pack some snacks, and get ready for an adventure in the picturesque Hudson Valley!

Are you looking for more day hikes in the Hudson Valley? Check out this list of Hudson Valley fire tower hikes perfect for fall!