mountain, sky, nature

5 Best Places to Kayak in the Hudson Valley (Local’s Guide)

Kayaking offers a uniquely peaceful way to experience the Hudson Valley's charms. Unlike hiking, my other favorite outdoor activity, I don't have to stress about about ticks โ€“ a huge public health concern in the region. Instead, I'm free to scan the shoreline and sky for wildlife. While paddling, I've seen blue herons and bald eagles soaring overhead. I've watched baby ducks swim after their mom and turtles sunning themselves on logs. If you're ready too take the plunge (pun intended), read on for some of my favorite Hudson Valley kayaking spots. Not only can you paddle along one of America's great rivers, the Hudson, there are smaller lakes, river, and marshes to explore.
person riding on boat on river during daytime

The 10 Best Places to Kayak in New York State

Growing up in Boston, I spent my childhood enjoying beaches in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. It wasn't until I moved to New York that I became a kayaker. Living by the Hudson River, kayaking was the easiest way to get out and enjoy the water. Since I took up kayaking seven years ago, I've been able to explore many of the lakes and rivers across the very large, very rural state that I now call home. That's right, most parts of New York are nothing like NYC โ€“ and I am passionate about helping people escape the city and experience the rest of New York. So keep reading for the best places to Kayak in New York state, from an unforgettable urban adventure to multi-day trips along the New York-Canada border.
Onteora Lake covered I snow in winter.

A Local’s Guide to Lake Onteora Trails in Kingston NY

Lake Onteora has some of the easiest and most accessible hikes near Kingston, New York. It's located up Route 28 just three miles west of Kingston, within the Bluestone Wild Forest. As a Kingston local, I've hiked each of Lake Onteora's trails multiple times, from water snowshoe treks to summer blueberry picking hikes. So read on for all the Onteora Lake Trail details and my favorite locals' tips to make the most of these accessible hikes near Kingston, NY!
Rocky outcropping at Slabsides

Hudson Valley Hiking at Slabsides

Planning a Hudson Valley hiking trip and searching for the perfect day hike? Slabsides is an approachable hike near Kingston, NY that's beginner friendly, kid friendly and dog friendly. Here's a hiking route that takes you to the best spots at Slabsides, including my recommendation of where to eat after your hike.
Hudson River and farm fields seen from a hike

An Insider’s Guide to the Best Hudson Valley Day Trips

Planning Hudson Valley day trips? This list of day trips in the Hudson Valley highlights the best things to do from an insider's perspective, with plenty of tips on what to eat and how to avoid the crowds.ย I've lived in the Hudson Valley for seven years. But I've been exploring the region since collegeโ€“so I know a lot about what to see and do in the Hudson Valley, including Hudson Valley towns that are LGBTQ friendly.
Fiery orange and yellow trees

Best Hikes in the Hudson Valley for Fall

Are you looking for the best hikes in the Hudson Valley in the fall? This list of Hudson Valley hikes with fire towers offers incredible views of forests full of red, yellow and orange leaves. Autumn is one of the best times to visit the Hudson Valley. Fall foliage blazes in vibrant hues. From up high, you can take in breathtaking fall views of forests, mountains, and rivers.ย  While all of these trails rank among the best hikes in the Hudson Valley for fall, some are more challenging than others. I've listed mileage and difficulty to help you choose the best hike for you.