The best walks and hikes in Putnam County

Putnam County offers a selection of 10 hiking routes, catering to various preferences. The majority, 8 of these, are considered easy, while 2 are moderate in difficulty.

Putnam County's hiking trails traverse diverse landscapes, including the rugged beauty of the Hudson Highlands with steep ascents and panoramic views of the Hudson River, Storm King Mountain, and Breakneck Ridge. You'll also find dense woodlands, numerous lakes, and reservoirs, offering tranquil experiences. Many trails provide stunning overlooks of the majestic Hudson River.

Yes, Putnam County has several easy trails suitable for families. For a shorter, accessible walk, consider the Covered Bridge Nature Trail, which is about 0.5 miles long. Another option is the Rim Trail, an easy 3.7-mile route through forested areas.

Yes, the Vandalia Trail is a moderate 6.1-mile path that follows a former railway line. This provides a relatively flat and accessible experience through rural landscapes, making it a good choice for those seeking less elevation change.

For a moderate loop experience, the McCloud Nature Trails offer a 5.9-mile route with varied terrain. If you're looking for an easy loop, the Quarry Pond loop from DePauw University is a 4.0-mile option.

While the region is known for its diverse landscapes and river views, specific trails featuring prominent waterfalls are less common in the primary hiking areas. However, you can explore routes like the View of Lower Falls loop from Cataract or the View of Upper Falls loop from Cataract for scenic water features.

The trails in Putnam County are generally well-regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from quiet woodlands to scenic river valleys, and the options available for different ability levels. The routes have an average rating of 4.0 stars.

Yes, for a longer moderate hike, the McCloud Nature Trails cover 5.9 miles and typically take about 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete. Another moderate option is the Vandalia Trail, which is 6.1 miles long.

Putnam County is rich in natural beauty. You can expect to see the majestic Hudson River from various viewpoints, especially in the Hudson Highlands. The region also features dense woodlands, numerous lakes, and reservoirs. Historic ruins from the Cornish Estate can be glimpsed along some trails, such as the Bull Hill Short Loop in Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve.

Putnam County offers beautiful hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings lush greenery, while autumn is particularly popular for its vibrant fall foliage, especially with views of the Hudson River. Summer provides warm weather for exploration, and winter offers serene, snow-covered landscapes, though some trails may require appropriate gear.

While the routes listed in our guide are primarily easy to moderate, the broader Putnam County region, particularly within the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, is known for trails with significant climbs. Routes like the Bull Hill Loop or Anthony's Nose via Camp Smith Trail offer more strenuous ascents and rewarding panoramic views.