The best walks and hikes in Putnam County
4.7
(295)
3,796
hikers
93
hikes
Hiking in Putnam County offers diverse terrain, from the steep, rocky ascents of the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve to the more tranquil, forested paths within Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park. The landscape features rolling hills, dense woodlands, and numerous lakes and reservoirs, providing varied experiences. Many trails offer views over the Hudson River, and sections of the Appalachian Trail run through the county.
Best hiking trails in Putnam County
- The most popular hiking route is Bull Hill Short Loop, a 4.5 miles (7.2 km) trail that takes around 2 hours 45 minutes to complete. This route involves a significant climb with rewarding views over the Hudson River.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Catfish Loop Trail, a moderate 5.2 miles (8.3 km) path. This trail navigates through woodlands and past several bodies of water.
- Local hikers also love the Old Mine Railroad, Charcoal Burners, and Three Lakes Loop, a 3.5 miles (5.6 km) trail leading through a forested area, often completed in about 1 hour 30 minutes.
- Hiking in Putnam County is defined by steep climbs in the Hudson Highlands, forested lake-side paths, and sections of the Appalachian Trail. The trail network offers a mix of challenging ascents and easier, family-friendly walks.
- The routes in Putnam County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 1,800 hikers have used komoot to explore Putnam County's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4.8
(12)
199
hikers
7.18km
02:45
340m
330m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(3)
49
hikers
11.7km
04:13
560m
500m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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13
hikers
9.84km
02:49
260m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
24.7km
07:16
640m
770m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
21.6km
05:58
380m
370m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
1.69km
00:40
180m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
5.60km
01:31
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
8.34km
02:21
170m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
10.8km
03:12
310m
300m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
5.49km
01:44
160m
330m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Putnam County
Hiking in Hudson Highlands State Park
Hiking in Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park
Hiking in California Hill State Forest
Hiking around Nelsonville
Hiking in Big Buck State Forest
Hiking around Lake Carmel
Hiking around Mahopac
Hiking around Peach Lake
Hiking in Wonder Lake State Park
Hiking around Putnam Lake
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.
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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.
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It is difficult to walk through all the viewpoints. But most show the Hudson River. The reservoir is different here...
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Located in Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park, Round Hill gives incredible views over the state park and New York's heartland.
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Good spot for a view of Hidden Lake. It is a small lake that is normally not busy, so is a good spot for a relaxed break.
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Nice small waterfall from Canopus Lake. You can see the falls from the trail that runs off the Appalachian trail.
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Great view point from Breakneck Ridge of Lake Surprise and Lake Surprise Camp.
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Just before the viewpoint, there's a restricted area with a warning. This isn't the highlight; you have to climb the rocks next to it. Absolutely worth it, great view.
3
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Frequently Asked Questions
What do other hikers think of the trails in Putnam County?
The trails in Putnam County are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the region's variety, from the challenging climbs with rewarding views in the Hudson Highlands to the serene, forested paths around the lakes in Fahnestock State Park.
Are there any good dog-friendly hiking trails?
Yes, many trails in Putnam County are great for hiking with a dog on a leash. A popular choice among dog walkers is the Granite Mountain Preserve, which offers a forested climb. Always check the specific regulations for the park you're visiting before you go.
What are some good circular hikes under 5 miles?
You can find several shorter loops perfect for a quick outing. For a unique experience, the Old Mine Railroad Trail loop is a 2.2-mile (3.5 km) easy walk through a forested area in Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park.
Are there any paved walking trails in the area?
Yes, the Putnam County Trailway is a 12-mile paved multi-use path that follows a former railroad line. It's ideal for a gentle walk or bike ride, passing through wooded areas and alongside scenic lakes like Lake Mahopac.
Which trails have the best views of the Hudson River?
For dramatic views over the Hudson River, the trails in Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve are unmatched. While many routes involve steep climbs, the panoramic vistas from the peaks are a significant reward. The Castle Rock Unique Area loop offers excellent viewpoints as part of a longer, moderate hike.
How do the trails in Fahnestock State Park compare to Hudson Highlands State Park?
The two parks offer very different hiking experiences. Hudson Highlands State Park is known for its steep, rocky, and challenging ascents that lead to stunning river views. In contrast, Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park provides a more tranquil experience with miles of rolling, forested trails that wind past serene lakes and ponds.
Are there any kid-friendly trails in Fahnestock State Park?
Fahnestock State Park is a great destination for families. It features several less strenuous trails that are suitable for children. The paths around Canopus Lake are particularly popular, and the Canopus Lake via Appalachian Trail loop offers a moderate lakeside walk.
Can I get to the hiking trails using public transport from NYC?
Yes, Putnam County is very accessible from Manhattan. You can take the Metro-North Hudson Line from Grand Central Terminal to stations like Cold Spring. This station provides direct walking access to trailheads for popular hikes in Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve.
What are some popular places for hiking in Putnam County?
Besides the major state parks, hikers enjoy several other spots:
- Little Stony Point: A local favorite in Cold Spring offering a mix of easy to moderate trails with beautiful views of the Hudson.
- Nimham Mountain Multiple Use Area: Known for its fire tower, which you can reach via an easy, paved path for panoramic views.
- Michael Ciaiola Conservation Area: A well-regarded hiking area with some steep sections and scenic trails.
Are there any trails that feature lakes or reservoirs?
Absolutely. Many routes in Putnam County showcase its beautiful lakes. In Fahnestock State Park, the Canopus & Hidden Lake loop is a moderate 7-mile (11.4 km) hike that takes you past two of the park's scenic bodies of water.
What should I know about hiking the Appalachian Trail in Putnam County?
A significant section of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) runs through Putnam County, primarily within Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park. You can experience it on the Three Lakes loop, which combines a portion of the A.T. with other park trails for a scenic 7.5-mile (12.1 km) journey.
Are there any long, challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the School Mountain Road Trail loop is a difficult 11-mile (17.7 km) hike within Fahnestock State Park. It involves significant elevation gain and takes you through more remote parts of the park.
Most popular routes in Putnam County
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