The best walks and hikes in Storm King State Park

Yes, dogs are generally permitted in Storm King State Park, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet and you must clean up after them. The trails can be steep and rocky, so ensure your dog is capable of handling challenging terrain.

There are several parking areas along Route 9W that provide access to the main trailheads. These lots, particularly the one for the Storm King Mountain ascent, can fill up very quickly, especially on weekends. It's best to arrive early in the morning to secure a spot.

While many trails in the park are known for being steep and rocky, there are some more accessible options. The Storm King Mountain loop — Storm King State Park is a shorter, 2.3-mile (3.8 km) walk through the woodlands that is considered one of the easier routes in the area. Another option is the nearby Cornish Estate Trail, which is a relatively flat walk leading to historic ruins.

The park is known for its challenging terrain. Most hikes involve steep, rocky climbs with significant elevation gain. While there are 56 moderate trails, you should be prepared for strenuous sections. For a truly demanding experience, the 11.3-mile (18.2 km) Whitehorse Mountain via Storm King Park loop is one of the 19 difficult routes available.

Yes, it is possible to reach the area by train. The Metro-North Hudson Line stops at Beacon, which is across the river, and Salisbury Mills/Cornwall. From either station, you would need to take a taxi or rideshare service to the trailheads, as they are not within easy walking distance.

Many trails provide spectacular views. The North Point Summit loop is particularly well-regarded for its panoramic vistas that include the Hudson River, Bannerman's Castle, and the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge. On a clear day, you can even see the distant Catskill Mountains from the higher elevations.

You should expect rugged and rocky conditions on most trails. The paths are often steep and can be slippery when wet. Proper hiking footwear with good grip is essential. Trails are generally well-marked, but it's always a good idea to have a map or use a navigation app.

Yes, the park has several excellent loop hikes. The Storm King Mountain via Highlands Trail is a popular 3.8-mile (6.2 km) moderate loop that takes you to the summit and back. For a much longer and more challenging day out, the Storm King loop is an 11.5-mile (18.5 km) circuit that explores a large portion of the park.

The park itself is not primarily known for waterfalls. The trails focus more on dramatic ridgelines and river views. While you may find small cascades after heavy rain, there are no major, named waterfalls directly on the main hiking routes within the park.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the breathtaking panoramic views over the Hudson River Valley from the summits. The challenging, rocky scrambles are also a highlight for those seeking a more strenuous workout.

There are over 90 designated hiking routes in and around Storm King State Park. These range from short, easier walks to long, difficult treks, with the majority falling into the moderate category. This variety ensures there are options for many different fitness and experience levels.

No, there are no public restrooms or facilities available within Storm King State Park or at the trailheads. You should plan accordingly before you arrive. The nearby town of Cornwall-on-Hudson has facilities at local businesses.