Things You'll Need:
- Binoculars
- Climbing gloves
- Hiking boots
- Camera
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Step 1
Park your car in the large vehicle lot on the right side of Route 9D. This lot is located adjacent to the trailhead for Breakneck Ridge for the convenience of early arrivers. Get to the Trail just after sunrise on the weekends to get a spot.
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Step 2
Begin your hike along Breakneck Ridge Trail at the first set of white blazes. Breakneck Ridge is one of several trails in Hudson Highlands State Park and the white blazes are posted outside of the paved lot.
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Step 3
Travel to the Breakneck Ridge Trail with climbing gear to surmount the initial trailhead. A pair of climbing gloves and comfortable boots will help you climb up to the beginning of the Trail.
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Step 4
Pause at the beginning of your hike along the Breakneck Ridge Trail to look out at the Hudson River. The first leg of the trail offers a clear view of this majestic river that is a good break from the trailhead climb.
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Step 5
Train your eyes to look for the blue blazes along the Breakneck Ridge Trail to cut your hike short. The blue blazes are obscured by bushes in some portions of Hudson Highlands State Park but provide a clear path for a simple day trip.
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Step 6
Snap a few photos of building remains as you hike along this difficult trail. There are old mills, farms and lookout towers throughout the park that create an antiquated environment for your hike.
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Step 7
Allow your eyes to drift downward every few steps to keep an eye out for wild animals during your trip. Timber rattlesnakes offer a realistic danger for hikers along thickets and bushes on the Trail.
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Step 8
End your hike on the Breakneck Ridge Trail at the town of Cold Spring. This small hamlet on the edge of the Hudson Highlands has restaurants, shops and a train stop that is frequented by New York City residents.
