Hudson Highlands State Park, State park in Hudson Valley, United States
Hudson Highlands State Park is a protected natural area featuring steep ridges along the Hudson River with multiple sections spanning Orange County. The park contains numerous hiking trails that wind through mixed forests, rocky outcrops, and open spaces overlooking the river valley.
The Hudson Valley region was settled during the Dutch colonial period in the 1600s when trading posts were established along the river. The area later became an important transportation corridor connecting New York City with northern regions.
The park serves as a gathering place where hikers and nature enthusiasts connect with the river landscape and surrounding wilderness. Local communities use these trails regularly for outdoor recreation and to maintain a relationship with the natural environment that defines the region.
The park is accessible from Route 9D with parking areas at several trailheads including Breakneck Ridge and Mount Beacon. Arriving early, especially on weekends, helps secure parking since popular routes fill up quickly.
The Breakneck Ridge trail is known for its steep scrambling sections that require hands-on climbing over rock faces. The challenging ascent offers dramatic views of the Hudson River from the summit, making it one of the most rewarding climbs in the region.
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