A Leisurely Hike in Poughkeepsie

On this Memorial Day, which marks the unofficial start of the summer of '26, come join us as we journey to POUGHKEEPSIE, NY and take a leisurely hike with a bird's-eye view of the Hudson Valley.

AGENDA: For the hike, we'll meet at Poughkeepsie station. Then we'll walk over to and cross the Mid-Hudson Bridge. Then meander down to Franny Reese State Park where we will do a loop hike. Coming out of the park, we'll walk along the shore of the Hudson River through the hamlet of Highlands which will take us to the Hudson Rail Trail which connects to the Walkway Over the Hudson, the world's longest, elevated pedestrian bridge .... crossing the Walkway provides an unobstructed view of the majesty and grandeur of the Hudson River. The walkway will take us back to Poughkeepsie station.

GETTING THERE: We will meet at Poughkeepsie Station at 10AM. From NYC, you can pick up the 7:57AM Metro-North train out of Grand Central Terminal that will get you to Poughkeepsie by 10am.

NOTE: You can also take the same train when it stops at any other stops outside of Grand Central. Just check mta.info for exact schedule from your departing station.

HIKE INTENSITY: This will be an EASY BREEZY to Moderate intensity hike
and walk over 2 bridges and a state park. There are some ups and downs along the way but nothing strenuous.

MILEAGE: Approximately 12-13 MILES 99% FLAT.

PACE: This is a LEISURELY PACE HIKE taking the time to soak in the surrounding views, savor the sights and sounds of nature AND NO ONE WILL BE LEFT BEHIND. Please do not join if you cannot respect my wish for this to be a LEISURELY day of hiking.

THE IMPORTANT STUFF:

• Dress in non-cotton layers.
• Wear appropriate shoes suitable for hiking.
• Bring at least 3 liters of liquid to stay hydrated.
• Bring lunch and snacks for yourself.
• Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, head cover, and whatever else you need
• Bring a sense of adventure and a positive attitude. A smile also goes a long way. Please leave the drama and crankiness at home.

POST-HIKE, for those interested, we'll grab eats and drinks in Poughkeepsie before heading home.

MEETUP FEE: A $2.00 Meetup fee will be collected to help defray the cost of keeping this group going.

WEATHER: Rain cancels!

LIABILITY WAIVER: come prepared. Participate at your own risks. Hold no one liable etc. etc.