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Breakneck Ridge

4.5 (79 reviews)

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View from hiking trail, Breakneck Ridge

The views from this trail are breathtaking. While labeled a difficult hike, it depends on your skill level. Many attempts from people unprepared, lead to medical professionals caring for those unprepared. If taken gradually, bring water, proper clothes, it is a one of a kind spot to view the stunning beauty of the Hudson Valley. A very popular spot on weekends, cars parked, along narrow shoulder on 9D. Proposal for a new route, that includes the AT trail, now in dispute. Best to check trail is open, before heading there. If possible, avoid Saturdays/Sundays, extremely busy. Mid week, a great time to share the trail. One of the most rewarding hikes. One cannot to justice to the natural splendor of this place.

Angelo G.

There's no parking lot so we parked by the side of the road. There are plenty of signs. We ended up doing the shorter trail because it was getting windy. Not too bad of a hike - the view is beautiful. Will definitely be back for the longer trails.

Emma G.

If you're into a hiking challenge with tons of optics, this delivers. The views at the top are right up there with any of the nearby mountain peaks, and this is an area with some strong competition - Bear Mountain is probably 20 minutes south. I've been up here numerous times ranging from the early spring to the late fall, and even when the foliage at the various viewpoints is not great, there's so much else to make up for it. I came here yesterday with one of my hiking chums. We opted for the 3.7-mile medium-length option (I've done the 7-miler one before that goes further back in the Hudson Highlands, and it's pretty meh - if you're in it for the mileage, by all means, but it's super anticlimactic after Breakneck and I recall Sugarloaf being one of the poochier summits). Our hike took us up (and I do mean UP) the white trail to the top of Breakneck Ridge, and then a bit further inland (with some additional up and down along the ridge) to the red trail on the left. After about 45 minutes, we hit the terminus of the red trail and took the yellow on the left, which brought us back to 9D about 10 minutes later. My favorite part is the initial mile up Breakneck. It took us about 45 minutes to an hour, and it's not for the faint of heart. If you slip....well, I don't know that that's CERTAIN death, but it's most likely an unpleasant injury, and there were a handful of times where we had to stop to figure out how we were going to get over a particularly difficult stretch of rocks. My chum was making her debut and wearing regular running shoes. I wouldn't do that - she had some trouble in the nastier sections with tread/grip, while I looked like a mountain goat by comparison with my North Face hiking sneakers. They were $40 at a nearby NF outlet. Worth it. Trust me. Some of my North Face purchases are pure label-whoreness, but the footwear is not. The views are fantastic on Breakneck - you can see miles up and down the Hudson, as well as the sprawling landscape on the western side of the river (highlighted by Storm King right across the way). I can't emphasize how much this is a hiker's hike - we didn't see any kids or families out for a stroll, just young and middle-aged people who looked like they were spry and in good physical shape. In many respects, the descent down on the red is my least favorite part. By then your hindpaws are likely tuckered out, and I always find the downhill more challenging as a result (especially if you're in decent shape and have hiker wind, which for whatever reason I do when it comes to rock scrambles - running outside like a normal person? Nope. Can't explain it.) It's also not a particularly scenic trail, but after what you just went through, I don't think your expectations should be insanely high. This was easily the least crowded I've ever seen Breakneck, likely because of some severe thunderstorm watches that we ignored. As a result, this was the only time I didn't encounter young pup/ignorant hikers asking for assistance in the form of navigation, mild rescue or water. If you can't immediately provide an informed response to what you should have in a hiking backpack, then I would not come here for your debut without at least one other more experienced individual. This is not the hike for a lot of trial and error. Huge recommend though if you're reasonably fit.

Street parking
Bob M.

This mountain is located in the Hudson Valley Cold Springs, NY. One of the best hikes I have ever done outside of Angels Landing in Zion National park. Although the scenery is so different, getting to the first peak and overlooking the beautiful Hudson River is a site you don't want to miss. The first incline starts a few minutes into the hike. From here it's a scramble up the mountain to the first peak. Take time to enjoy the scenery and get a photo at the infamous flag atop the Hudson River. Continuing on to the 2nd and 3rd peak there are options for an easier hike or a hard hike, being that this was my first time, I took the easier hike. Once at top is a fairly steep incline down but nothing you can't handle. Notes: Parking can be a problem if you don't get there early This is not a trail for sneakers - something with grip Better to have less on this trail - Bring water Take lots of pictures

The View
Dallas B.

This hike is located in Cold Spring, NY. Which is a great little town to visit after the hike. When arriving at the trailhead, it's on the side of a main road with no real parking lot. Everyone parks a long the side of the road. Make sure to arrive early because it can get very busy. At the start of the trail there are some port a potties, some sign boards showing the different trails, and there was even someone giving out maps and explaining the trails. The hike up, is very difficult and I wouldn't recommend it for someone afraid of heights, or who isn't and avid hiker. It is very steep and requires a lot of scrambling and climbing up rocks. Once you get to the top, you are rewarded with an amazing view. From there, there's a few different ways to get back down. One is called the easy way down. Its just some sets of stone stair cases that lead back down to the main road. This is definitely a must do hike if you are up for the challenge.

Diondra B.

We camevhere for a hike. It was pretty intense it starts with a uphill rock climb definitely intense but once you finish you feel accomplished

Melissa P.

Love it, amazing views. There are different entrances the once closest to the bridge is for experienced hikers and the other is more of a path laid out. I took the experienced hiker route def make sure to have hiking shoes as it is climbing rocks, but worth it to the first flag.

Adrienne N.

After seeing this hike on AllTrails we determined to try it. We arrived at at 8am and there already a good amount of cars. By the time we left, the road was lined with cars. We went on the long loop (white to red to yellow) and it was so fun! The rock scrambling for the first mile really wasn't bad at all. I highly recommend hiking with study shoes such as hiking shoes because it did get steep and there are some tough spots. The views were absolutely amazing and breathtaking. It's definitely worth the trek up, and we finished in just under 3 hours with lots of snack and water breaks!

Tonya B.

This has been the most intense hike we have been on but it has also been one of the most beautiful. The climb was definitely worth it. This hike is not for the faint at heart. I also would not recommend taking young children or animals. We saw some hikers with dogs and they were all exhausted. One hiker was carrying his dog in his book bag because the dog would not proceed any further. We saw an English bull dog that was painting so hard we thought he was going to pass out. The hike itself consists of using both hands and feet to climb over boulders and continue to climb over additional boulders (the shuffle). They have sections where you can opt to take easier routes but of course my fiancé opted for the obstacles, as such there were times where we doubted ourselves because of the intensity of the shuffle; we feared slipping during our climb. The views of the Hudson, the train, the road....were absolutely phenomenal. We climbed to the highest point which were three different peaks I believe. The first peak has two flags. I also wanted to note since I noticed a lot of first time hikers wanting to find the easiest exit. The easiest route is to continue along the hike which continues in elevation, and includes more climbing. Once you reach the top and continue on a little further you will see a huge boulder, from there, there are options to take other trails in which case you can take the route that will loop you back to the parking area. There is an easy decline and an obstacle decline, for this we selected the easier route. We were able to visit the mansion to see the remains which was nice. We plan on returning soon since there are other trails to explore. Again the hike was complex, and dangerous at times but the views we absolutely breathtaking.

Victor H.

The top view is amazing. You get to enjoy peace and see the surrounding nature. However, the hike up is a bit hard. You may need to boulder to get up. They are easier hike but my party chose the hardest route to go up. It was a great workout though. I definitely enjoyed it and would love to go there again in the future. The drive is short. Approx. 1.5 hrs from Manhattan. This is convenient. What I didn't like was the hike down. The hike down was hard on my knees as they were not used to the motion. But the more you hike down then the more muscle you develop, which it won't be bad for your knees as you do it more often.

Matt S.

This is a very fun hike with a hard difficulty level. If you enter at the Breakneck Ridge Trailhead, just know that it's a one-way trail up a VERY steep, rock scrambling incline for at least the first hour (if you're moving quickly) and is followed up by a couple breakaway trails with varying difficulty levels. I did the Breakneck Long Loop (white trail, followed by red trail, then yellow trail) and it took me about 2.5 hours (including a couple water breaks and stops to admire and take in the panoramic views, and take photos) while moving at a steady pace. If you're looking for an easier hike, there are other trailheads to choose from up and down the main road 9D as well. A couple things to note: 1) I would not recommend bring your dog for this hike. The rocks are steep and require all human legs and hands to maintain balance. A dog will have an extremely difficult time (sometimes impossible) so you'll like have to carry your dog for the vast majority (if not entirety) of this hike, except for maybe when you're at the second hour of the hike and you're going downhill, but even then some of the drops are steep. I reluctantly decided to leave my dog at home for this one and was SO glad that I did once I was into the first hour of this climb and realized the intensity of the climb. 2) Bring plenty of water! You're definitely going to need to hydrate for this climb, especially during the warmer months. 3) Plan your hike. You want to make sure that you've allotted plenty of time in order to finish your intended hike during daylight hours. There are a few different options to choose from once you've completed the initial (and by far the most difficult) leg of the journey. If you're not that physically fit, plan for more trail time just in case. 4) Not recommended for anyone that's scared of heights. Again, the initial climb is steep and you get very high up, very fast. It makes for spectacular views of the Hudson but there are times you may not want to look down or over that cliff you're standing so close to. Overall, this is by far one of the most fun hikes I've been on. It's intense, a great leg workout, and has spectacular views of the Hudson Valley. I highly recommend.

Nahida R.

This hike was exceptional! It was roughly 1 mile straight uphill with 3 summits with breathtaking views. I would rate the hike 9/10 in difficulty. The way down is easy like a spiral staircase. There are a view waterfalls on the way down.

At the first view point after the rock scramble.
Crystal C.

My favorite New York hike. Amazing views, rock climbing, and dogs! Breakneck is just about an hour and a half commute from the city and is easily assessable by Metro North. The first half of the hike is steep rock climbing which makes it perfect for those who want a mini full body warm up. I went here for the first time as a complete hiking newbie, and I'm not going to lie..I almost went into cardiac​ arrest by the time I made it to the first photo point. But, it's so worth it! The views are amazing and there will be a huge sense of accomplishment once you make it past that first hump. Now, I visit regularly and have a set trail I follow, but Breakneck never gets old. My one tip of advice, be prepared! This means the following: -A lot of water! I typically bring 3 bottles or the equivalent​ of 48 ounces. The more the better - Snacks! pretzels​, fruit, a sandwich​. Legit pack anything because​ trails are 4-7 hours long so you will get hungry. - Shoes with good grip. I wore worn-out​ Nikes​ and​ was left sliding down a few rocks. -Get there around 8 am to beat the heat If the gym isn't your thing, then I'd recommend Breakneck. You'll get one heck of a work out with about 4 beautiful scenic rest points along the way. Oh,​ and did I mention all the dogs that do the hike as well? INSIDER TIP: When you finish the hike walk a bit further to GO GO Pops in Cold Spring. They make the best fresh fruit popsicles​ and non-dairy​ ice cream which will definitely​ cool you off post-hike​.

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Ask the Community - Breakneck Ridge

Anyone know if it's still open right now? Edit: just called nynjtc -- Breakneck Ridge is open until summer! They haven't set a date for closing it off for repairs, but it should be good for spring. :)

Is there a swimming hole? or place to swim?

The Breakneck trail head is on the Hudson River but you cannot swim there. I recommend nearby Croton-On-Hudson park which has a beachfront, kayak rentals, large public space for picnics, etc. Bear Mountain is also close and they have a great pool on… Read more

Is it still open this year?

Yes

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Review Highlights - Breakneck Ridge

While there is some rock scrambling after the first overlook, the majority of it is in the first part of the hike.

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Washburn Trailhead - Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve

Washburn Trailhead - Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve

(3 reviews)

Cold Spring - Gear Up, Adventurers! From Grand Central, the…read morerails carry you north in just one hour and eighteen minutes a ride where the Hudson keeps pace at your side, cliffs and forests sliding past like a living postcard. This is your prelude, the calm before the climb. The train doors open at Cold Spring, and the adventure begins on foot. Head up toward Main Street, then turn left onto Fair Street. For fourteen minutes, your path winds past proud Victorian homes, each with its own story etched into weathered wood and painted trim. Keep moving the trailhead awaits, and the mountain won't climb itself. The Hike From the parking area, you're faced with a choice: how far do you want to go? I'll be honest I set out intending to take the short route, but somehow managed to hike nearly the same distance as the full loop. So think of this as the "short loop" with a twist. Start by heading right onto the white-blazed Washburn Trail. Cornish Trail...The Washburn Trail to Bull Hill- The Washburn Trailhead rests low and close to the Hudson, where the river breathes in slow, steady ripples. From the very first step, the ground tilts upward, the path a quiet ribbon of gravel and dirt marked by small white discs nailed into the trees little beacons in the green. The climb is gentle but unrelenting, and the hum of the river fades behind you. Soon, the forest parts just enough to reveal the quarry, its pale walls catching the light like an old scar in the hillside. The air feels warmer here, still and echoing with the faint clink of loose stone underfoot. The trail bends right, slipping into a shoulder of the mountain. A tangle of side paths weaves between the trees, all pulling you higher. Through breaks in the canopy, the Hudson flashes silver to the south, and West Point sits in the distance like a fortress at the water's edge. The wind finds you in brief, cool bursts as the summit draws near. Less than two miles in, the crest of Bull Hill Taurus Mountain opens before you. The air is sharper up here, carrying the scent of pine and stone. On the descent, the path changes character, following an old fire road down the eastern slope. It's broad, quiet, and feels like it remembers the weight of the years. Eventually, it delivers you to the still intersection of the Nelsonville and Notch Trails a place where the mountain exhales and the hike's story shifts.

This was a great hike. Trail was well marked and not crowded. There are some scrambling on the…read moreascent and a long straightforward descent. There are plenty of parking spots but they get taken quickly so arrived early. The views are worth he climb and time commitment. I would definitely recommend visiting the ruins. There are easy 3miles loop. 4.5 and 6miles loops. All marked and with beautiful views

We Out - Hikers having fun with group photos

We Out

(2 reviews)

We Out (Philipa) guided a 10 person group to Hudson Highlands State Park and summited Bull Hill…read morewith an elevation of 1,421 feet in Cold Spring NY. I don't know what kind of hiker I would consider myself as I regularly hike a few of the Delaware Gap Appalachian trails and recently completed Lemon Squeeze in NY. I know a good tour guide when I see one though. Philipa built a full experience for the group, from getting to the mountain (public transportation, GPS if driving), what to pack, how to dress, fitness level suggestions, snack/lunch suggestions and weather updates. Even though the weather for our trip would not qualify for a regular summer day in July I felt prepared and mentally I had a great attitude (which I contributed to the preparedness). At the mountain Philipa went through basic necessities (bathroom uses), pacing and safety precautions. She also gave us information about the mountain which is the only reason I know exactly where I hiked and how high I climbed. We stopped the amount of times the group needed to and she built connections to the mountain giving us some historical information. After the hike we stopped in town for some ice cream and snacks. Overall I feel as each activity would be different as each mountain/trail provides different experiences. But for review purposes what I want to leave you with is that Philipa will not lead the 1st timer astray, an expert will learn at least 1 new fact and she caters each experience to the area. You will not regret it!!! You will love your experience!

Took Metronorth to Cold Spring, NY where we hiked the Hudson Highlands State Park. Our guide…read morePhilippa was amazing. She was so knowledgeable and shared so much with us. It felt great to meet new people and share this experience with them all. The climb to the summited Bull Hill aka Mt. Taurus with an elevation of 1,421′ was awesome. We got a small shower but it was refreshing. The meditation at the top was icing on this delicious cake. Philippa even shared with us the land we travelled which belonged to the Munsee, Lenape & Wappinger native people. That was so interesting to know. Highly recommend We Out for your hiking experience. It's great for all level hikers. Definitely signing up for future hikes with We Out!!!!

Kittatinny Canoes

Kittatinny Canoes

(95 reviews)

Full transparency, I have limited camping experience, and we booked our stay for Memorial Day…read moreweekend, which is typically a cold and rainy time, so we didn't get the chance to fully enjoy or experience the amenities. The staff was friendly and welcoming. The campsites are well-spaced, and each spot comes with a picnic table. The bathrooms were well-maintained and clean, and the water temperature was warm enough for a comfortable shower. The camp also has a small store with all the essentials, and there's a Walmart and McDonald's nearby for anything you may need beyond that. They keep the area tidy, with clean trash bins and bags provided, and the trash is picked up in the morning. The only downside was the lack of night patrol. There were several loud parties making it difficult to sleep, though I understand this is more of an issue with guests not being considerate. Additionally, the site next to ours had a notably loud snorer, which made things a bit more challenging. Overall, I had a pleasant stay and would recommend Kittatinny K-Camp.

5 Stars to Daniel and Chris for personal touch and finding us 4 working canoes for our group. 1…read morestar is for Kittatinny Canoes cheapness and non-working, very outdated equipment. Pocono/Delaware scenery is definitely 5 stars but it is not KC achievement. We have used KC for the last 20 years every year, and firsthand witnessed how it is going downhill. On the last trip, none of the canoes had working foot rests, which is a must have if you want to row correctly and not break your back. And that is where, Daniel and Chris came to the rescue - they dove into 2 trailers and found us 4 working boats. It is a good thing that it was a mid-week and they were able to provide such personal touch. Just sad when you see a company going downhill like that.

Breakneck Ridge - hiking - Updated May 2026

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