Mount Beacon Park

There's a good bet you'll be huffing and puffing on the mile-or-so climb up the mountain, but the exertion is worth it. From the summit you'll be treated to spectacular, panoramic views of the Hudson River.

Mount Beacon Parkphoto: Robert Rodriguez, Jr.

Beacon, Dutchess County (234 acres)—Yes, the trek up Mount Beacon is strenuous, although switchbacks along the trail furnish occasional breathers. The hike begins on a staircase following the course of the Beacon Incline Railway, in the early 20th century the world's steepest funicular and one of the Hudson Valley's prime tourist attractions. (The Beacon Incline Railway Restoration Society is working to return the ride, destroyed in a 1983 fire, to its former glory.) Observation platforms atop the stairs preview the treat awaiting those who reach the summit — sublime vistas stretching from the Hudson Highlands to the Catskills.

After a rest, you can explore the ruins of the incline railway's powerhouse or follow a short trail leading to a monument commemorating a signal fire built atop the mountain during the Revolutionary War. It was one of many beacons, spanning from the Highlands into New Jersey, intended to warn of British troop movements. (This one gave the mountain and city their names.) The adventurous can hike to Scenic Hudson's adjacent Fishkill Ridge, whose rugged trails afford long-range glimpses of the Highlands and even Manhattan's skyline. And a mile from the summit is the newly restored Mount Beacon fire tower, where on a clear day you can see from the Big Apple to Albany.
People enjoying Mount Beacon's splendid viewsphoto: Robert Rodriguez, Jr.

Mount Beacon Park is maintained in cooperation with the Mount Beacon Incline Railway Restoration Society.

Park Features

Bird watching/nature study
Dog walking (on leash)
Food nearby
Hiking
Picnicking
Portable toilet

When to visit

Year-round daily dawn to dusk. Allow a minimum of 3 hours.

Trails

The trail to Mount Beacon's summit, a shade over a mile and steadily uphill, follows a winding road that passes some lovely rock formations. Deer and other wildlife abound.