Wallkill Valley Rail Trail Loop

The full loop is approximately 47.5 km (29.5 miles) long and typically takes around 3 hours to complete by touring bicycle, depending on your pace and stops.

The Wallkill Valley Rail Trail section is mostly unpaved with a well-maintained stone-dust surface. Some sections can become muddy after rain. As the trail passes through towns like New Paltz and Rosendale, it transitions to paved sections. The River to Ridge Trail, which is part of the loop, features mostly flat lower sections and hillier, more moderate upper sections with crushed gravel and some on-road stretches.

Hybrid or mountain bikes are most suitable for the varied terrain, especially the stone-dust and crushed gravel sections. Road bikes with narrow, high-pressure tires might find the unpaved sections less ideal.

You'll encounter several notable features, including the impressive Rosendale Trestle, offering panoramic views 150 feet above Rondout Creek, and the historic Springtown Truss Bridge. The loop also passes near the Huguenot Street Historic District in New Paltz.

The loop is generally considered moderate. While the main Wallkill Valley Rail Trail sections are mostly flat and easy, the River to Ridge Trail portion includes some hilly sections that add to the overall challenge.

The trail connects several towns like Kingston, Rosendale, and New Paltz, which offer various parking options. Specific trailheads in these towns provide convenient access points.

Yes, the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail is generally dog-friendly. Dogs are typically allowed but should be kept on a leash and owners are expected to clean up after their pets.

Spring, summer, and fall offer pleasant cycling conditions with diverse scenery. Fall is particularly beautiful with changing foliage. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for potentially mucky sections after rain or snow, and check local conditions.

No, there are generally no permits or entrance fees required to access and cycle the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail or its connecting sections like the River to Ridge Trail.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and the Hudson Valley Greenway Trail. It also provides access to the Mohonk Preserve and Minnewaska State Park Preserve for further exploration on their extensive carriage roads and trails.

The trail passes through vibrant towns such as Kingston, Rosendale, and New Paltz, which offer a variety of local shops, eateries, cafes, and accommodation options for cyclists.