Our First Hike: Two Bridges and a State Park

Welcome to our new group! On this Memorial Day marking the unofficial start of the summer of ‘26, come join us as we journey to POUGHKEEPSIE, NY and take a hike over 2 bridges and a state park with a bird's-eye view of the Hudson Valley.

AGENDA: From Poughkeepsie station, 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 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. Apres hike we'll have an optional eats and drinks before heading home.

GETTING THERE: Get yourself to Poughkeepsie Station by 10AM. From New York City, you can take the 7:57AM Metro-North out of Grand Central Terminal that will get you to Poughkeepsie by 10AM. Our day will start and end at Poughkeepsie Station.

HIKE INTENSITY: The bridge walks are easy. Trails inside Franny Reese are moderate with slight uphills and rocky trails in some parts. Through the entire day there are some ups and downs along the way but nothing strenuous that experienced hikers cannot handle.

MILEAGE: Approximately 12-13 MILES.

PACE: This is a LEISURELY PACE HIKE AND NO ONE WILL BE LEFT BEHIND. We will have breaks for lunch, water, snacks throughout the day as needed, with time to savor the views. NO FAST HIKERS!!!

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.

WEATHER: Rain or extreme heat and humidity cancels!

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