The best walks and hikes around Newburgh
4.7
(164)
2,132
hikers
78
hikes
Hiking around Newburgh, NY, offers diverse outdoor experiences within the scenic Hudson Valley. The region is characterized by the majestic Hudson Highlands, the sprawling Shawangunk Ridge, and the winding Wallkill River. Situated along the Hudson River, Newburgh provides waterfront views and access to varied natural landscapes, including forests, hills, and urban green spaces.
Best hiking trails around Newburgh
- The most popular hiking route is North & South Beacon Mountains Hike — Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, a 4.5 miles (7.2 km) moderate trail that takes about 2 hours 34 minutes to complete. This route offers impressive views of the Hudson Valley.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Bald Hill Loop – Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, a difficult 9.8 miles (15.8 km) path. This challenging loop provides a strenuous experience within the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve.
- Local hikers also love the North & South Beacon Mountains loop — Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, a 12.0 miles (19.3 km) trail leading through the rugged terrain of the Hudson Highlands, often completed in about 6 hours 12 minutes.
- Hiking around Newburgh is defined by the dramatic Hudson Highlands, the expansive Shawangunk Ridge, and picturesque riverfront paths. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy urban walks to challenging mountain ascents.
- The routes in Newburgh are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 170 reviews. More than 2,300 hikers have used komoot to explore Newburgh's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
5.0
(2)
14
hikers
3.22km
01:17
370m
10m
Hike the challenging 2.0-mile Casino Trail in Mount Beacon, gaining 1202 feet of elevation in just over an hour for rewarding views.
5
hikers
8.78km
02:45
400m
270m
Embark on the Mount Beacon via Notch and Wilkinson Memorial Trail for a rewarding hike that spans 5.5 miles (8.8 km) and climbs 1300 feet (396 metres) in elevation. This moderate route, typically completed in about 2 hours and 44 minutes, offers a diverse experience, starting with a significant number of stairs and steep, rocky switchbacks. As you ascend, you will be treated to increasingly expansive views of the Hudson River Valley, the Catskill Mountains, and the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge, culminating in unparalleled panoramic vistas from the South Beacon Fire Tower.
When planning your visit, be prepared for varied terrain; the trail can be quite rocky, especially along the Wilkinson Memorial Trail section, so wearing appropriate footwear with good ankle support is highly recommended. While the overall trail system is well-maintained, some parts might be rougher underfoot. Parking is generally available near the trailhead, but it is always a good idea to check local conditions before you head out, especially during peak seasons.
This trail offers more than just scenic beauty; it also provides a glimpse into the area's rich history. Near the start of your hike, you can explore the historic Ruins of the Mount Beacon Incline Railway Powerhouse, a fascinating landmark that speaks to the region's past. The combination of a good workout, stunning natural views, and historical interest makes this a notable hiking experience in the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve.
Sign up for free
2.71km
00:41
0m
10m
Enjoy an easy 1.7-mile hike across the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge, offering scenic views of the Hudson River, Mount Beacon, and Bannerman's Cast
4.6
(5)
122
hikers
7.23km
02:34
410m
410m
Hike the moderate Casino Trail for 4.5 miles (7.2 km) through Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, gaining 1344 feet (410 metres) to stunni
4.5
(2)
11
hikers
15.8km
05:07
670m
670m
Hike the challenging 9.8-mile Mount Beacon, Scofield Ridge, and Fishkill Ridge Loop for panoramic views and historical sites.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
If you're in New York and want to go hiking, this is the ideal place. Easily accessible by train, scenically beautiful, and interwoven with many trails of varying difficulty.
1
0
Mount Beacon Park, part of the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, is beautiful, with fantastic hiking trails and spectacular panoramic views. The park's trails, which range from moderate to challenging, lead to the summit of South Beacon Mountain, with a restored 60-foot fire tower, offering breathtaking vistas that stretch from the Manhattan skyline to the Catskill Mountains, especially on a clear day. The park is also home to the remnants of the historic Mount Beacon Incline Railway, once the world's steepest, and the foundations of an old casino and hotel, adding a unique historical dimension to the natural beauty of this area.
0
0
Quiet and not busy for cyclists compared to Tapan Zee or GWB.
0
0
From Bald Hill, you can enjoy great views of the surrounding hills. It's a very peaceful spot!
0
0
The view from the tower is impressive, no question about it. We visited the place on a hike from Beacon to Cold Spring and be careful: the way down towards Cold Spring is much steeper than the ascent and goes over some rocks. In the alpine area it would be an easy via ferrata. Be especially careful with children and use appropriate shoes.
4
2
As you can see in the photos, the station is also worth a visit because of the station, at least for tech-savvy people. The number of transmitter systems on the masts is impressive and the location is ideal as a transmitter location. To all amateur radio operators: take your transceiver with you!
6
2
Only the outer walls of the cable car building have been preserved, the roof is completely missing. On the other hand, it is easy to get to the remains of the machines, which are quite well preserved. Two large electric motors where you can still see the wire windings, huge gears with a few teeth missing. I find it remarkable that the foundations are concreted, but the bases for the machinery were built from bricks on top of them. These bricks are likely to have had a rather poor quality, because they are almost completely weathered, which means that the complex has settled a lot.
6
0
Erected in 1931 so rangers could spot forest fires in the Hudson valley. You can climb to the top and see great 360 degree views. The elevation at the top is around 1,765 ft. above sea level.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Newburgh?
The Newburgh area offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 65 routes available. These trails cater to different skill levels, from easy strolls to challenging mountain ascents, all within the scenic Hudson Valley.
What types of hiking trails can I expect in the Newburgh area?
You'll find a diverse range of trails, from easy paths suitable for families to more strenuous climbs. Approximately 13 routes are considered easy, 38 are moderate, and 14 are difficult. The landscape includes the dramatic Hudson Highlands, the expansive Shawangunk Ridge, and picturesque riverfront paths along the Hudson River.
Are there any easy or family-friendly hiking options near Newburgh?
Yes, Newburgh offers several easy and family-friendly options. The region features rail trails like the Hudson Valley Rail Trail, which are typically flat and accessible. Within the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, the Notch Trail to Melzingah Reservoir loop is an easy 5 km route, perfect for a relaxed outing.
Can I bring my dog on hikes around Newburgh?
Many trails in the Newburgh area, especially those within state parks and preserves, are dog-friendly, usually requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific park regulations before heading out, but generally, the region welcomes leashed dogs on its hiking paths.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the Newburgh area?
Yes, there are several excellent circular routes. For a challenging experience, consider the Bald Hill Loop – Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, a difficult 15.8 km path. Another popular option is the North & South Beacon Mountains loop — Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, which covers 19.3 km of rugged terrain.
Where can I find scenic views or landmarks on the trails?
The Newburgh area is rich in scenic viewpoints. The Bull Hill (Mount Taurus) Summit offers panoramic views, extending to the New York City skyline on clear days. You can also find impressive vistas from Breakneck Ridge and South Beacon Mountain, which also features a firetower.
Are there any waterfalls to see while hiking near Newburgh?
Yes, the region is home to Brook Falls, an approximately 400-foot waterfall located on Dry Brook. It's a notable natural highlight accessible via a trailhead at the end of Pocket Road, offering a beautiful natural spectacle.
What are some more challenging hikes in the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve?
For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve offers several strenuous routes. The Bald Hill Loop is a difficult 15.8 km path. Another demanding option is the Breakneck Ridge via Notch Trail loop, known for its challenging ascents and rewarding views.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Newburgh?
The hiking trails around Newburgh are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 170 reviews. Hikers often praise the dramatic scenery of the Hudson Highlands, the diverse terrain, and the rewarding views from various summits.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Newburgh?
The Hudson Valley, including Newburgh, is particularly stunning during the autumn months when the fall foliage transforms the landscape into vibrant colors. Spring and early summer also offer pleasant hiking conditions with lush greenery, while winter can provide unique, serene experiences for those prepared for colder weather.
Are there any historical sites or ruins to explore along the trails?
Yes, the area around Newburgh is rich in history. You can explore the Ruins of the Mount Beacon Incline Railway Powerhouse or the Cornish Estate Ruins (North Gate). These sites offer a glimpse into the region's past amidst beautiful natural settings.
Are there any trails that offer views of the Hudson River?
Absolutely. Many trails in the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve provide stunning views of the Hudson River. The North & South Beacon Mountains Hike is a moderate trail that offers impressive vistas of the valley and the river below.
Most popular attractions around Newburgh
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
