One of our favorites near Cold Spring. 5 miles with real views of the Hudson River from the summit. Mix of woods, open meadows, and rocky sections. Good workout without being brutal. Close to the city so it gets busy on weekends.
This trail is part of Hudson Highlands State Park Preservein the Hudson Valley region — explore all hikes in New York.
Cold Spring, NY
Bull Hill (or Mount Taurus, if you're fancy) is one of our go-to hikes near Cold Spring. The views from the summit are genuinely spectacular - maybe some of the best river views in the entire Hudson Valley, and that's saying something.
The trail is about 5 miles round trip with some real elevation gain. There are rocky sections that require careful footing, especially after rain when things get slippery. We'd rate it solidly moderate - you'll get a workout, but it's doable for most hikers who are in decent shape.
What we love about this trail is the variety. You start in the woods, pass through some open meadows, scramble over some rocks, and then boom - you're at the summit looking down at the river and the valley spreading out in every direction. We always pack lunch and eat at the top. It's one of those spots where you just want to linger.
Fair warning: since it's close to NYC, it gets busy on weekends. We've started doing Saturday morning hikes here, leaving early, and that makes a huge difference. Cold Spring is right there for post-hike food and wandering, which is half the fun of a day trip here.
See our photos from this hike on Instagram @best.hikes.usa
Start Early
Begin your hike early to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene beauty of the trail without rush.
Footwear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good traction as the trail includes rocky sections that might require secure footing.
Water and Snacks
Carry an ample supply of water and energy-boosting snacks to stay hydrated and fueled throughout the hike.
Cold Spring DepotRestaurant
Historic restaurant housed in a former train station offering a diverse menu and a great selection of craft beers. Great outdoor seating.
View in Google MapsThe Foundry RoseCafe
Breakfast, brunch, and lunch at the former Foundry Cafe location. Open since 2024 with a rotating menu and dining events.
View in Google Maps
ModerateShort but solid. 2.6 miles with enough elevation to feel like real hiking. Steady climb through woods with rocky sections. Views of the Hudson River at the top are perfect - we've done this one a bunch of times and never get tired of it.
View Trail
EasyA beautiful section of the Appalachian Trail near Pawling, NY that takes you through open meadows, rolling farmland, and along a boardwalk through the Great Swamp. One of the more unique AT sections in New York - feels more like the English countryside than a mountain trail.
View Trail
ModerateOur most hiked trail. Mix of woods, rocky sections, and ridge walking with incredible views. Summit tower gives you 360-degree views of the Hudson and surrounding peaks. Solid moderate difficulty - you work but never feel destroyed. Close to the city, beautiful year-round.
View TrailThese are the items we bring on every hike. Links help support this site at no extra cost to you.
Rocky, rooted trails in the Northeast need real ankle support.
We use: Merrell Moab 3 Mid WP
Bring at least 2 liters. Most trails here don't have safe water refill points along the route.
We use: CamelBak Chute Mag 32oz
Fits water, food, rain layer, headlamp, and a basic first aid kit comfortably.
We use: Osprey Talon 22
The rocky ridges here — especially on descents — are much more manageable with poles.
We use: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork
Trail forests get dark fast. Always carry one even on planned half-day hikes.
We use: Black Diamond Spot 400
Northeast mountain weather is unpredictable. Afternoon storms roll in without warning — always have a packable layer.
We use: Marmot PreCip Eco Rain Jacket
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