A Leisurely Hike at West Point Foundry Preserve

Let's get outside and head up north to spend a day in Cold Spring, New York. We'll start the day with an easy breezy leisurely walk through time at West Point Foundry Preserve, which is an archeological site and outdoor museum. Afterwards, we'll explore the village of Cold Spring on foot. Lots of things to see and do.

ABOUT WEST POINT FOUNDRY: Once an epicenter of artillery and ironwork production during the Civil War, West Point Foundry has transformed into an archaeological site and outdoor museum. Hiking trails that follow old rail beds will guide you to the preserved ruins and artifacts that are woven into the tranquil Hudson woodlands. Situated by the Foundry Brook, this is a perfect place to enjoy the outdoors and a leisurely stroll through time.

Read more about WPFP ------> HERE and HERE

GETTING THERE: In the morning, we will meet at Grand Central Terminal to take the 8:56AM Metro-North to COLD SPRING station

We will arrive at Cold Spring station at 10:16AM. Trails leading to the Foundry starts right at the end of the Cold Spring Station platform.

AGENDA: we will hike the Foundry at leisurely pace. Hike will not take the entire day. If we finish early enough we can explore COLD SPRING.

COLD SPRING IN A NUTSHELL: Tucked along the Hudson River, where nature meets art, you’ll find Cold Spring, NY. Once a vital artillery center during the American Civil War, this river town has blossomed into an idyllic village where local restaurants and Main Street boutiques greet Hudson Highlands hikers as well as culture lovers from nearby New York City.

Some notable sights in Cold Spring:

• DOCKSIDE PARK: Modest in size but not in beauty, Dockside Park is a perfect place to sit, relax, and soak in the splendor of the Hudson River. Its location gives you a direct view of Storm King Mountain and the surrounding valley. Gaze out onto the water and you’ll quickly understand why people are drawn to this place.
• Note: there is a "secret" spot by the park where you can have an amazing photo with the 3 mountains that surround Cold Spring - Mount Taurus, Breakneck Ridge and Storm King - looming in the background. Really cool stuff :)
• MAIN STREET: On Main Street, Cold Spring’s art galleries and boutique shops are buzzing with new life from the weekend. Pick up books, snacks, and creative knicknacks at Cold Spring General Store, go antiquing at Once Upon a Time, or stroll through art exhibits at Gallery 66 and Magazzino Italian Art. Wherever you go, you’re bound to see the true character and charm of this place.
• You scream, I scream, we all scream for ICE CREAM ... at Moo Moo's Creamery. Best ice cream in town!!!!

PACE: Hiking pace will be LEISURELY AND NO ONE WILL BE LEFT BEHIND. NO SPEED DEMONS PLEASE!

THE IMPORTANT STUFF:

• Dress for the weather 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 a sense of adventure and a positive attitude. A smile also goes a long way. Please leave the drama and crankiness at home.

DURATION: I cannot guarantee finishing time but hope to finish the day by no later than 4PM. Then we can grab dinner and drinks in Cold Spring before heading home. You're welcome to LEAVE ON YOUR OWN at any time you wish. We won't judge. Much.

WEATHER: Rain, snow, polar vortex cancels

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

LIABILITY WAIVER: Come prepared. Participate at your own risks, hold no one liable, etc, etc.