The best walks and hikes around Copake Lake

The Alander Mountain via South Taconic Trail offers a diverse hiking experience, starting in open fields before winding through dense forests. You will encounter creek crossings and sections that can be muddy, but the real journey begins as the trail steepens and becomes rockier, leading to the summit. From the grassy, scrub-oak-covered Alander Mountain Summit, you are rewarded with expansive 360-degree views stretching across the Catskill Mountains, Hudson Valley, and the Berkshires.

This moderate route covers 5.4 miles (8.8 km) with a substantial 1573 feet (479 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 56 minutes. Parking is available at the trailhead, but arriving early is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Be aware that timber rattlesnakes are known to inhabit the Taconic Range, particularly around Alander Mountain, so keep an eye out during warmer weather.

One unique aspect of this trail is that Alander Mountain sits directly on the border of Massachusetts and New York, meaning you will cross the state line multiple times. The route also connects to the longer South Taconic Trail, offering options for extended backpacking trips, including a popular link to Bash Bish Falls. There is even a free, first-come, first-serve cabin near the summit for overnight stays.

The Harlem Valley Rail Trail offers a unique journey through New York's rural landscapes, following a repurposed railbed that winds through working farms, extensive wetlands, and forested hillsides. You'll experience a mix of open grasslands and tree farms, with glimpses of historic farmsteads and old train stations, and even distant views of the Berkshire and Catskill mountain ranges. The path is predominantly paved with asphalt, making it an easygoing grade for most sections, though the full 66.5 miles (107.0 km) with 4491 feet (1369 metres) of elevation gain is rated difficult and takes nearly 29 hours to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail boasts numerous access points with free parking, some even equipped with portable latrines. Its paved surface and gentle grade make it highly accessible for a wide range of users, including families and those with strollers. While the trail is still expanding, a continuous paved section runs from Wassaic to the Copake Falls area of Taconic State Park, linking several towns and offering opportunities to explore local shops and eateries.

This trail is notable for its successful rail-to-trail conversion, built on the abandoned New York & Harlem Railroad bed, with old railroad mileage markers still visible. It provides an excellent opportunity to connect with both nature and history, traversing diverse ecosystems and historic settlements. The accessibility and varied scenery make it a popular choice for those seeking a blend of healthy exercise and the quiet beauty of rural New York, whether for a short stroll or a multi-day adventure.

The South Taconic Trail offers a fantastic moderate hike, guiding you along a scenic ridge with diverse terrain. You'll traverse through mixed forests and emerge onto open, grassy summits, providing a dynamic experience underfoot. The route culminates in breathtaking panoramic views from points like Alander Mountain Summit, where you can gaze across the Hudson River Valley and towards the Catskill Mountains. It's a rewarding journey for those who enjoy a good climb and expansive natural beauty.

Planning your visit is straightforward, though arriving early for parking is always a good idea, especially on weekends. While this specific route is a day hike, the broader South Taconic Trail system allows for overnight camping at designated sites, such as on Alander Mountain. The trail conditions are generally good, but be prepared for steep ascents and descents, particularly in sections leading to higher elevations.

This trail is a gem within the Taconic Mountains, known for being less crowded than other popular regional trails, offering a true sense of wilderness. It runs parallel to the Appalachian Trail on an adjacent ridgeline, with shorter connecting trails providing options for extended loops. The area is rich in natural features, including deep, forested gorges and the spectacular Bash Bish Falls nearby, making it a prime destination for scenic viewpoints and outdoor exploration.

This moderate 5.5-mile (8.8 km) hike to Bash Bish Falls offers a unique blend of easy rail trail cruising and a rewarding climb to a spectacular waterfall. You'll start on the paved Harlem Valley Rail Trail, winding through serene wooded areas, wetlands, and open farmland, before the terrain dramatically shifts to a forested path alongside Bash Bish Brook. The grand finale is Bash Bish Falls, Massachusetts' highest single-drop waterfall, plunging 60 feet into an emerald pool, a truly ethereal sight after 2 hours and 29 minutes of hiking.

To plan your visit, note that the trail connects via Taconic State Park in Copake Falls, New York. While the Harlem Valley Rail Trail is largely flat and accessible, the final push to Bash Bish Falls involves a more significant elevation gain of 600 feet (183 metres), with steeper sections and rocky terrain, particularly on the Massachusetts side. Parking is available, and the trail is generally open year-round, though conditions vary seasonally.

What makes this route stand out is its ability to combine two distinct hiking experiences: the gentle, multi-use Harlem Valley Rail Trail and the rugged, dramatic approach to Bash Bish Falls. This blend of rural landscapes and a powerful natural landmark in the southern Taconic Mountains makes it a distinctive and appealing option for those seeking varied scenery and a memorable waterfall destination.