Franny Reese Park and Mid-Hudson Bridge Loop

This jogging loop is approximately 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) long. For an average jogger, it takes about 45-50 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

The terrain is quite varied. Within Franny Reese State Park, you'll find woodland trails, often following old carriage roads that are wide and generally easy to follow, though some sections can be slightly downhill and rocky. The bridge portions, including the Walkway Over the Hudson and the Mid-Hudson Bridge, feature smooth, paved surfaces, ideal for running. Expect gradual elevation changes throughout the loop rather than steep climbs.

While individual sections within Franny Reese State Park are relatively easy, the full loop is categorized as moderate due to its distance and cumulative elevation gain. Beginners who are comfortable with a 7 km (4.3 mile) jog and some gradual hills should find it manageable, but it's not a completely flat or effortless route.

You can typically find parking at the Franny Reese State Park trailhead in Highland. There are also parking options available for the Walkway Over the Hudson, which connects directly to this loop, on both the Poughkeepsie and Highland sides.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trails within Franny Reese State Park and on the Walkway Over the Hudson, provided they are kept on a leash. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

Spring and fall offer the most pleasant jogging conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Fall, in particular, provides spectacular views of the Hudson Valley. Summer can be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer temperatures and potential humidity. Winter jogging is possible, but check for ice or snow conditions, especially on the woodland trails.

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access Franny Reese State Park or to jog this loop. Both the park and the Walkway Over the Hudson are free to enter.

This route offers diverse scenery. You'll jog through picturesque woodlands in Franny Reese State Park, passing historical elements like stone walls and the ruins of the 19th-century Cedar Glen Estate. A key highlight is the View of the Hudson River from Franny Reese State Park. The bridge sections provide expansive panoramic views of the Hudson River, the Catskills, and the surrounding landscape, including the iconic Mid-Hudson Bridge and the Walkway Over the Hudson itself.

Yes, this loop is part of a larger network. It integrates with the 'Walkway Loop Trail' and sections of the broader Empire State Trail. Within Franny Reese Park, you'll follow portions of the White Trail, Yellow Trail, and Blue Trail. The route also extensively uses the Mid-Hudson Bridge Pedestrian Walkway.

While there are no facilities directly within Franny Reese State Park, restrooms and water fountains are available at various points along the Walkway Over the Hudson, particularly near its entrances on both the Poughkeepsie and Highland sides. It's always a good idea to carry your own water, especially during warmer months.

This loop is unique for its seamless blend of natural beauty and engineering marvels. It combines peaceful woodland jogging in Franny Reese State Park with the exhilarating experience of crossing two iconic Hudson River bridges: the pedestrian-only Walkway Over the Hudson and the Mid-Hudson Bridge. This offers a diverse experience with unparalleled river views and a mix of historical and modern elements.