Manitou Point Preserve Day Hike - Public Transportation Accessible (Moderate)

***Official registration for this event is via the following link (MeetUp RSVPs will not be used): https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX0000012Lsb/act00019358

Celebrate the arrival of spring with a refreshing hike through the scenic Manitou Point Preserve! As the forest comes back to life with budding trees, fresh greenery, and hints of wildflowers, we’ll explore this beautiful trail network in full.

On this outing, we’ll hike approximately 4 miles, connecting several trails including the Perimeter Trail, Livingston Trail, Copper Mine Trail, Upland Trail, Manitou Road Bypass Trail, and the Connector Trail (not necessarily in that order). Each section offers its own charm—from peaceful wooded paths and ravines to partial views of the Hudson River.

🌼 Spots are limited—please RSVP early to secure your place!

🗓️ The Plan

• Meeting Time: 9:30 AM, Meeting Location (Drivers): Trailhead parking lot
• Public Transit Option: Take the Metro-North Railroad Hudson Line to Manitou Station (arrives at 9:07 AM). We’ll meet outside the platform and walk (~20 minutes) to the trailhead together.

🚶‍♂️ What to Expect

• Beginner-friendly and accessible via public transportation
• Relaxed, social pace with time to enjoy the spring scenery
• Breaks as needed and a lunch spot will be with a view of the Hudson River
• Moderate rating due to terrain (some gradual and steep ascents/descents)

⚠️ Note: There are no restrooms at the train station or on the trails.

***Official registration for this event is via the following link (MeetUp RSVPs will not be used): https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX0000012Lsb/act00019358***

🚆 Transportation Details

• By Train: MetroNorth Train, Hudson Line toward Poughkeepsie Tip: Sit in the last two cars—only those doors open at Manitou.
• By Car: Parking at the Manitou Point Preserve lot (90 Mystery Point Rd, Garrison, NY)

🎒 What to Bring

• Sturdy hiking footwear (required) – trails are uneven and can be muddy in spring
• Trekking poles (recommended for slick or damp terrain)
• Lunch, snacks, and electrolytes
• 2–3 liters of water
• Weather-appropriate layers (spring temps can vary!)
• Sun protection & bug spray

New to hiking? Check out this guide from Appalachian Mountain Club: https://amc-ny.org/hiking-faqs/

Severe weather cancels the hike and we would try to reschedule.

Additional Information:
Brief History of Trail: https://www.openspaceinstitute.org/places/manitou-point-preserve
Trail Map Link: https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/osi-craft/Manitou_TrailSign_June2018.pdf
Photo Credit: Open Space Institute

AMC Health Advisory: Covid and other respiratory illnesses are circulating in our communities. Do not participate in this hike if you, or someone who you have recently been in contact with, is either infected or symptomatic.