Hudson River Skywalk

The Hudson River Skywalk offers an incredibly scenic and easy hiking experience, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll walk along a paved path, enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the Hudson River Valley and the Catskill Mountains, often from one of the three dedicated viewing decks. This 3.2-mile (5.2 km) route has a gentle 159 feet (49 metres) of elevation gain, making it an easy walk that takes about 1 hour and 22 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward; the trail is free and open from dawn to dusk year-round. Parking is usually available at the trailheads. Since it's a paved path, it's suitable for all skill levels and is considered one of the most family-friendly trails in the area. Just wear comfortable shoes and you're good to go.

What makes this route truly special is its connection to American art history. It links the Thomas Cole National Historic Site with Frederic Church's Olana State Historic Site, allowing you to literally walk in the footsteps of these Hudson River School painters. The landscape you'll see from the Skywalk inspired their iconic works, offering a unique "artistic pilgrimage" experience.