Wallkill Valley Rail Trail

The trail primarily features an unpaved 'stone-dust' or 'crushed gravel' surface, making it suitable for jogging. While mostly unpaved, sections passing through towns like New Paltz and Rosendale may be paved. The unpaved portions are generally well-maintained. As a former railroad corridor, the trail is largely flat.

Yes, the trail is generally considered easy and welcoming to users of all ages and abilities. Its flat gradient, typical of rail trails, makes it ideal for a comfortable jog, even for beginners.

You can expect a rich variety of scenery, including lush woods, open fields, picturesque farmland, orchards, organic farms, and lakes. It also runs alongside the Wallkill River and offers magnificent views of the Shawangunk Ridge. You'll also see historical industrial remains, such as old cement-mining facilities and kilns.

A significant highlight is the Rosendale Trestle, a restored bridge approximately 150 feet high and 900 to 940 feet long, offering great views of the surrounding Hudson Valley and Rondout Creek. The trail also provides views of the Shawangunk Ridge and passes through historic districts like Huguenot Street in New Paltz.

Numerous access points and ample parking are available along the trail's entire length. You can find convenient parking in towns like New Paltz and Rosendale, which also offer amenities.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all users.

The trail is open year-round from dawn to dusk. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer provides dense shade from vegetation, making for an enchanting experience, while winter allows for activities like cross-country skiing.

No, the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail is free to access, and no permits are required to use it.

Yes, the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail is part of the larger Empire State Trail and connects to other local trails like the River-to-Ridge Trail and the Hudson Valley Rail Trail. The route also passes through sections of the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and the Walden-Walkill Rail Trail.

The trail offers opportunities to stop in towns like New Paltz and Rosendale, where you can find cafes and shops. There are also numerous access points and ample parking along its length.

The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail stretches between 21.4 and 23.7 miles, running from Kingston to Gardiner. It is a linear, out-and-back trail rather than a loop.