Katie’s Hudson Valley Travel Journal
212 feet above the Hudson River and over a mile long, the Walkway Over the Hudson offers views North to the Catskills and South to the Hudson Highlands. This, one of a kind, portion of the Hudson Valley Rail Trail is one of my most favorite ways to spend an afternoon in Poughkeepsie. Your family can choose to park in any of the rail trail parking lots and bike a few miles to the Walkway or park on one of the ends (Poughkeepsie side or Highland side) and simply walk right on!
The walkway is nicely paved and has a pedestrian walking path that makes it completely kid and family friendly. There are plenty of benches and viewing areas so that your kids can stop and take in the spectacular views. All along the walkway are plaques that offer tidbits of history. Your family can learn all about the Hudson River, the railroad and how this magnificent bridge was built and maintained.
The Walkway offers rest areas located on both the North and South ends where you can buy food, drinks and souvenirs. With plenty of shade and ample picnic tables feel free to set up a nice lunch before heading back to your car. While on the Highland side of the Walkway, don't forget to check out a real antique railroad car, it's a great photo op and my daughter loves pretending to ride it!
In the middle of the Walkway is an all glass elevator that brings you down to Upper Landing Park. This park is a great place to let children run around, check out more amazing Hudson River views, see the geese and ducks or play on the playground. There are plenty of restaurants nearby as well if the concession stands on the Walkway do not pique your interest. The Elevator, itself, offers spectacular views and my daughter thinks it's just as fun as an amusement park ride! Once you are done at the park, simply take the elevator back up to the Walkway.
Trains, amazing Hudson River views, open air and lots of awesome photo opportunities, sounds like the perfect recipe for a great family outing!
Tips for this visit:
- There is no fee to enter the Walkway and the elevator is free to ride as well.
- There is plenty of free parking, click here for more information on parking.
- If you want to bike to the Walkway I suggest parking at the Old Manchester Road parking lot, behind Page Home Center in LaGrange. The Rail Trail is 4 miles one way to the entrance of the Poughkeepsie side.
- There are porta poties located all along the Rail Trail and at both ends of the Walkway.
- The concession stands accept cash only.
- The Walkway is open year round, 7am-sunset.
- The Walkway is handicap and stroller friendly.
- There is no shade on the mile long Walkway so I suggest lots of sunscreen and umbrellas to keep yourself shaded.
- The Mid-Hudson Children's Museum is in walking distance to the Walkway and a great way to make a whole day of your trip!
For more information visit the
Walkway Over the Hudson online.
My favorite places nearby:
Other articles by Katie's Hudson Valley Travel Journal