4.6
(3297)
10,832
hikers
Hudson River Skywalk
01:22
5.20km
50m
Hiking
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.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
2.60 km
Hudson River Skywalk
Highlight (Segment) • Bridge
Tip by
5.20 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.14 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
2.63 km
2.44 km
101 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Sunday 5 July
27°C
20°C
73 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park for the Hudson River Skywalk?
The Hudson River Skywalk connects the towns of Catskill and Hudson. You can find parking available at both ends of the Skywalk, providing convenient access to the trail.
Is the Hudson River Skywalk dog-friendly?
Yes, the Skywalk is generally dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all visitors.
What is the best time of year to visit the Skywalk?
The Skywalk is open year-round from dawn to dusk. While beautiful in all seasons, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, making them particularly popular times to visit. Sunrise and sunset also provide spectacular views.
Are there any fees or permits required to access the Skywalk?
No, the Hudson River Skywalk is free and open to the public, and no permits are required for access.
What is the terrain like on the Skywalk?
The Skywalk is primarily a paved walkway and bike path, offering a smooth and well-maintained surface. It is considered an easy and relatively flat walk, suitable for all skill levels and handicap accessible.
What kind of views can I expect along the route?
You can expect sweeping and panoramic views of the Hudson River Valley and the Catskill Mountains. The trail features various lookout points and three dedicated viewing decks, offering unique perspectives from hundreds of feet in the air. You'll also see the Hudson River Skywalk bridge itself and the Rogers Island Wildlife Management Area.
Is the Skywalk a loop trail or out-and-back?
The Hudson River Skywalk is an out-and-back trail. It's approximately 3 miles one way, so a full traverse between the two ends and back would be about 6 miles.
Does the trail connect with other paths?
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Hudson Valley Greenway Trail (Olana to Hudson), Hudson Valley Greenway Trail (Tivoli to Olana), and the Empire State Trail (Rhinebeck - Hudson) [cycling].
What makes the Hudson River Skywalk unique?
The Skywalk is unique for its connection to American art history. It physically links the Thomas Cole National Historic Site in Catskill with Frederic Church's Olana State Historic Site in Hudson, allowing visitors to walk in the footsteps of these major Hudson River School painters and experience the landscapes that inspired their iconic works.
Are there any regulations or fees for visiting Olana State Historic Site?
While the Skywalk itself is free, Olana State Historic Site, which the Skywalk connects to, may have specific regulations, operating hours, or fees for accessing certain areas or tours within the historic site. It's advisable to check their official website for the most current visitor information.
Is the trail suitable for all ages and abilities?
Yes, the Hudson River Skywalk is considered an easy trail with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for all skill levels, from seasoned hikers to casual walkers, families, and is also handicap accessible.
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free