Posted by By Trey Nitza, Staff Writer
The Hudson Valley can seem to be centered around nature. Tourists don’t come here for shopping malls, massive stadiums, or breathtaking skyscrapers. They come here to get away from urban livelihoods and a more stereotypical America, and see an area that seems to have embraced its natural origination. We create businesses, livelihoods, and stories around the stunning area that we found ourselves in. Yet, as someone who didn’t grow up around here, I sense that some locals can take the gift we have for granted. They can assume that these natural landmarks are reserved for rock-climbing aficionados or pro-hikers, and forget how much potential is around us. So I wanted to help with this by highlighting some genuinely astounding trails and other spots around here.
But, to make things more interesting, I wanted to rank them. Specifically on two criteria: accessibility and looks. Some spots on here are breathtaking, but are pretty challenging, especially for newcomers. And some don’t have the most spectacular views or spectacles, but are accessible to pretty much anyone. Obviously, none of these spots are bad in any way, and the ones in last place aren’t necessarily the worst, just the ones that hit the criteria the least.
5. The Lemon Squeeze
This is ranked the lowest simply because it loses some accessibility points, since it is a tough spot to reach, since to even begin the climb you have to get through the arduous climb up the mountain, and a Mohonk pass to get in. The “Lemon Squeeze” refers to the tight climbing portion through a crack in the mountain of a long hike towards Skytop Tower, a beacon of Gardiner and New Paltz. I enjoy the obstacle, but I can understand the hesitations due to the tough physical challenge, especially if you’re not a fan of heights. Or ladders. Lots of ladders. Yet I still encourage people to take it on, because the view at the top is more than worth it. (Especially if you’re brave enough to reach Skytop.)
4. “The End of the World“
While it has been given a not so welcoming nickname, the End of The World refers to a swimming spot reachable by the Peterskill trail in Gardiner. The swimming area is a spot that is known for some waterslides and pools, which are uniquely impressive and fun knowing that they are completely nature-made and unaffected by man. While this is by far my favorite destination on this list, it’s only ranked this low because of the pass you need to get in and the possibly arduous trail to reach. Though, as always, I encourage those who are cautious to face it head on and enjoy the scenery at the end.
3. Split Rock
This one is probably one of the most iconic spots in this list. Split Rock is a classic staple of this area which holds a great swimming hole with a 6-foot drop. It’s an undemanding spot that can either be enjoyed for the swimming or a moderate hike, or even just to hang around the park. If you can reach Gardiner and buy a pass, it’s a great and accessible spot to bring practically anyone.
2. The Millbrook
The trails in the Millbrook Preserve are probably some of the least known on this list. Yet these seem to be placed in the heart of New Paltz, reachable from plenty of local spots in New Paltz, like Duzine Elementary School and the end of North Manheim Boulevard. They are easy hikes with low altitudes and hills, with some nice views of the forest. While not the longest and toughest spot out there, it’s a simple and serene preserve that I personally will never get tired of.
1. The Rail Trail
What other trail could take the number one spot? The Rail Trail was made from the former Wallkill Valley Railroad, into an iconic and universally loved pathway for hikers, bikers, or simply someone that wants to get a breath of fresh air. It stretches across 22+ miles through Ulster County from New Paltz to Gardiner, showing and encapsulating everything that’s beautiful about this area. I would be shocked to see a time where the trail wasn’t swarming with all sorts of people. It even placed in a national Top 10 list of iconic rail trails.
The Maroon 