Hunting Season

Woods at Shaupeneak
Photo: Robert Rodriguez, Jr.

Deer hunting is vital for conservation in the Hudson Valley — but we should all take extra caution in areas where it’s permitted. Follow these tips whenever you hike during hunting season, which generally runs from October through December:

  • Know when and where hunting is allowed by checking the park’s website. (For example, Scenic Hudson allows hunting at Shaupeneak Ridge with a current permit from the organization within designated areas.)
  • Wear bright clothing (think oranges, reds, and yellows).
  • Keep your pet leashed. And outfit them in a fluorescent harness or other bright gear.
  • Hike during the day. Hunters are most active at dawn and dusk.
  • Stay on marked trails.
  • Make some noise! Deer don’t carry on conversations, so the best way to identify yourself is by making moderate noise — while being respectful to your fellow hikers.
 

Scenic Hudson offers hunting permits for use at Shaupeneak Ridge in Esopus (Ulster County). Permits are available for spring turkey season and fall bow and rifle deer-hunting seasons. Dates for these seasons are regulated annually by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Scenic Hudson fully complies with all DEC rules and regulations regarding hunting.

Hunting Rules

  • No motorized vehicles/ATVs
  • No permanent tree stands. Tree stands may be placed two weeks before hunting season begins and must be removed two weeks after the end of the season
  • Cutting, removal, or damage to any vegetation is prohibited
  • Please respect the private property of our neighbors and do not illegally trespass. Hunters found illegally trespassing will have their permits revoked. Discharging of any firearms within 500 feet of any residence is illegal in New York State
  • No camping
  • No littering (“carry in, carry out”)
  • All other Scenic Hudson property rules must also be obeyed. 

To receive an announcement via email about future applications and deadlines, please email hunting@scenichudson.org. Approximately 30 days before the beginning of each season, we’ll send you an announcement with a link to our online entry form. A few weeks before each season commences, we will close the application and contact all entrants with the results.