The best walks and hikes around Marist College
4.7
(28)
386
hikers
33
hikes
Hiking around Marist College explores the scenic Hudson River Valley, characterized by its diverse natural landscapes. The region features riverside paths, forested state parks, and elevated walkways that offer views over the Hudson River. Trails range from accessible on-campus nature preserves to more challenging routes in the surrounding hills and mountains. The varied terrain includes woodlands, streams, grasslands, and rocky cliffs, providing a range of outdoor experiences.
Best hiking trails around Marist College
- The most popular hiking route is Mid-Hudson Bridge & Walkway Over the Hudson loop, a 3.9 miles (6.3 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to complete. This route combines two bridges for expansive views of the Hudson River.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Dutchess Rail Trail, a difficult 14.1 miles (22.6 km) path. This longer trail offers a car-free route through the valley.
- Local hikers also love the White, Yellow, and Blue Trail Loop, a 3.5 miles (5.7 km) trail leading through varied woodland and open areas, often completed in about 1 hour 40 minutes.
- Hiking around Marist College is defined by elevated river crossings, woodland preserves, and rolling hills. The network of trails offers easy hikes for beginners as well as moderately difficult options for those seeking more elevation gain.
- The routes in Marist College are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 25 reviews. More than 200 hikers have used komoot to explore Marist College's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
1
hikers
22.6km
05:49
110m
80m
Hike the 14.1-mile Dutchess Rail Trail, a challenging route through wooded areas and past waterways, connecting to the Walkway Over the Huds
4.5
(2)
23
hikers
6.29km
01:44
100m
100m
The Mid-Hudson Bridge & Walkway Over the Hudson loop offers a distinctive hiking experience, blending stunning vistas with significant historical landmarks. This easy 3.9-mile (6.3 km) route, with 329 feet (100 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 43 minutes to complete. You'll traverse the world's longest elevated pedestrian bridge, the Walkway Over the Hudson, which provides unobstructed 360-degree views of the river and surrounding mountains, including the Catskills to the north. The trail also crosses the historic Mid-Hudson Bridge, offering a different perspective of the river and its banks. Expect mostly paved surfaces, with some gentle hills and a few moderate climbs.
Given its popularity, especially the Walkway Over the Hudson, you should plan to arrive early on pleasant weekends and holidays to secure parking. The Walkway is ADA-compliant, featuring a seasonal glass-enclosed elevator for enhanced accessibility. While much of the loop is on off-road paths, some sections are on public roads with motor traffic, so stay aware of your surroundings. This route is ideal for families and those seeking an accessible, scenic outing.
This loop connects two historically important bridges, with the Walkway Over the Hudson originally a railroad bridge from 1888, repurposed in 2009. The Mid-Hudson Bridge, inaugurated in 1930, was once the sixth-longest suspension bridge worldwide. Affectionately known as "The Great Connector," the Walkway bridges Ulster and Dutchess Counties, serving as a crucial link within an expanding network of rail trails. It's a great way to experience the Hudson Valley's natural beauty and engineering marvels.
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5.0
(1)
9
hikers
5.70km
01:40
160m
160m
Hike the easy 3.5-mile White, Yellow, and Blue Trail Loop in Franny Reese State Park, featuring scenic viewpoints of the Hudson River.
4.6
(7)
130
hikers
7.93km
02:11
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
hikers
1.99km
00:34
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Marist College
Tips from the Community
Pedestrian and bicycle bridge over the Hudson. Very long bridge with great views.
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The Walkway Over the Hudson, also known as the Poughkeepsie Bridge, is a steel cantilever bridge spanning the Hudson River between Poughkeepsie and Highland. Originally it was built as a railroad bridge in 1889, then closed in 1974 due to fire damage and later reopened as a pedestrian walkway in 2009. It connects the Hudson Valley Rail Trail with the Dutchess Rail Trail and is part of the Empire State Trail. Stretching 6,768 feet, it was the world’s longest pedestrian footbridge until 2016. The bridge is free to access and welcomes cyclists as well as foot traffic.
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At 251 acres, Franny Reese State Park offers scenic views of the Hudson River and the Hudson River bridges from its rocky bluffs. A lot of the trails within the preserve are rooty, rocky, and locked in the trees, but the views from the high points make all the work worthwhile.
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At 251 acres, Franny Reese State Park offers scenic views of the Hudson River and the Hudson River bridges from its rocky bluffs. A lot of the trails within the preserve are rooty, rocky, and locked in the trees, but the views from the high points make all the work worthwhile.
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The Hudson Valley Rail Trail offers access to the Walkway Over the Hudson, which is pretty much just a pedestrian-only bridge open to runners, walkers, and cyclists. You get pretty great views of the river from the crossing, and there are nice facilities at the trailheads on both sides of the bridge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy hikes suitable for beginners or families near Marist College?
Yes, the area has many accessible options. The Hiking loop from Highland is a great choice, offering a relatively short walk with minimal elevation. For something right on campus, the Fern Tor nature preserve provides a network of simple trails with views of the Hudson River.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Many trails in the Hudson Valley are dog-friendly. Roosevelt Farm Lane Trail is a particularly popular spot for dog walkers, known for its gentle and well-maintained paths. Another option is the Walkway Over the Hudson, though be aware that the grated surface of the bridge can be uncomfortable for some dogs' paws.
What are some good circular hikes in the area?
There are several excellent loop trails that bring you back to your starting point. For a straightforward but scenic walk, the Walkway Over the Hudson loop from Poughkeepsie provides great views without the need to retrace your steps. Peach Hill Park also offers multiple intersecting loop trails through woods and orchards.
Are there any hikes with waterfalls near Poughkeepsie?
For those seeking waterfalls, a trip to Minnewaska State Park Preserve is highly recommended. It's a bit of a drive from campus but features several trails that lead to impressive waterfalls, especially after rainfall. The park's dramatic cliffs and glacial lake add to the scenery.
What kind of hiking is available directly on the Marist College campus?
Students and visitors have immediate access to the Fern Tor nature preserve, located on the northern edge of campus. This 13-acre sanctuary features a small network of trails that pass a creek and a pond. The highlight is the 'Tor,' a rock outcrop offering a beautiful overlook of the Hudson River.
Where can I find the best views of the Hudson River on a hike?
For panoramic river views, the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park is unmatched. This elevated pedestrian bridge offers a unique perspective high above the water. For a more traditional trail experience with views, Franny Reese State Park provides several overlooks of the river and the Mid-Hudson Bridge.
Are there more challenging or strenuous hikes available nearby?
Yes, for hikers looking for a challenge, the region offers several options. The trails at Mount Beacon provide a strenuous climb that rewards you with expansive views, especially during the fall. For a longer, moderately difficult hike through woodlands, consider the trails on Illinois Mountain.
How many hiking trails are there around Marist College?
You can find nearly 20 curated hiking routes in the immediate vicinity of Marist College on komoot. The broader Hudson Valley region contains hundreds more, ranging from easy riverside strolls to challenging mountain ascents in state parks like Bear Mountain and Minnewaska.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this area?
The trails around Marist College are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning Hudson River views from elevated paths and the variety of trails available, from easy park loops to more rugged woodland hikes.
What are some popular places for hiking near Marist College?
Several parks and preserves are local favorites for hiking. Here are a few popular spots:
- Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park: A top-rated attraction known for its spectacular panoramic views from the elevated pedestrian bridge.
- Peach Hill Park: Praised for its variety of trails suitable for all skill levels, winding through orchards and woods.
- Roosevelt Farm Lane Trail: A well-loved, accessible trail that's perfect for a gentle walk in any season.
- Fern Tor Nature Preserve: A convenient on-campus gem offering short trails and a scenic river overlook.
Where can I find good sunset views on a hike?
The west-facing overlooks in the Hudson Valley are perfect for watching the sunset. The Walkway Over the Hudson provides an open, panoramic view as the sun goes down over the river and the hills beyond. The 'Tor' rock outcrop in the on-campus Fern Tor nature preserve is another excellent, easily accessible spot for sunset views.
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