Nyack Beach State Park, Riverside state park in Upper Nyack, United States
Nyack Beach State Park is a New York state park in Upper Nyack, running along the western bank of the Hudson River between tall rock cliffs and the water's edge. The paths follow the shoreline at river level, with the cliffs rising sharply on one side and the river stretching out on the other.
The park was established in 1911 after the state stepped in to stop quarrying that was already tearing apart nearby sections of the Palisades. Without that intervention, the cliffs and riverbank visible today would likely have been mined away.
The park has held National Natural Landmark status since 1980, a recognition tied to its geological features, including sections of the Palisades Sill formation visible along the paths. Walkers often notice how close the rock walls stand to the water, giving the trail a narrow, enclosed feel unlike most riverside parks.
The riverside paths are flat and easy to walk or bike year-round, with fishing also allowed along the shore. In winter, the same routes can be used for cross-country skiing when there is enough snow.
Some rocks along the walking paths contain fossils and footprints left by prehistoric creatures, visible to anyone who looks closely at the stone surfaces. These traces are embedded in the same rock formations that the early quarrying campaigns were targeting.
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