River-to-Ridge Trail
New Paltz (Ulster County)
Why we love it
A welcome addition to the Hudson Valley’s running scene, the River-to-Ridge Trail has it all — great scenery; a soft, well-maintained path (also open to bicyclists and horses); and rolling hills that quicken the pulse without punishing the body. Its 6-mile loop traverses working farmland, crosses several small streams and offers an unbeatable view of the Shawangunk Ridge in all its rock-bound glory. The Open Space Institute created this gem that already has become a go-to destination for the fleet of foot and slow of toe.
More to explore
The trail links the flat, 22-mile Wallkill Valley Rail Trail with 90 miles of trails atop the ridge in Mohonk Preserve and Minnewaska State Park Preserve. In downtown New Paltz, Historic Huguenot Street preserves half a dozen homes of the community’s early settlers, while the Dorsky Museum at SUNY New Paltz offers intriguing art exhibits.
Highlights
- Over 6 miles of well-maintained trails
- Spectacular scenery
Directions, hours, etc.: https://www.openspaceinstitute.org/places/river-to-ridge-trail
