Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park Reviews

Leisure walkover the beautiful Hudson River in Poughkeepsie New York. enjoy the view of the beautifull hudson Valley, Dutchees Couny NY and Ulster County NY.

While we loved the walkway and the local restaurants it was the parking "traps" that left us feeling ripped off. We had difficulty finding parking and figuring out the parking signage (4 post-college grads). After getting a ticket for $40 we went into , Lola's (a great cafe) to ask where we could go to ask about it. We were told not to worry about the ticket if we were from out of town. So we went on enjoying our day. This week a delinquent ticket notice from the City of Poughkeepsie came in the mail for $80. When calling the number on the notice I was told that I could either pay the amount or request a court date. When I shared that I was from out of town I was told not to get snippy with them and that the only other thing I could do was to call back the next day and ask for Dan. Finally today I was able to reach Dan who waved the delinquent fee but not the parking violation fee if I paid today. I just paid the $40 but now instead of remembering the great feeling I had doing the walkway and eating at Lola's in Poughkeepsie, I am thinking of a city that rips off out of town guests.

Loved it, pity we didn't arrive earlier and do more of the trail. Nevertheless I got my steps in walking from one side to the other and back. Highly recommended if your in the area.

We walked half way out to the middle of the bridge and then back. It was a nice sunny day and a great view. It was a little windy in the middle of the bridge.

The walkway any time of year is fantastic but in the fall it’s just breathtaking! If you haven’t had an opportunity to go make it a point to get there!

I was driving around downtown and my GPS brought me to the side walk stairs first and I didn’t find the parking lot. The parking lot is located at 49 Parker Ave, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
The entrance is very easy to find and it leads you all the way to the bridge. This place is very organized with clean bathroom, bike to rent and small gift shop. My walk was splendid! Bring your hat, sunscreen and a good pair of sneaker!

What a fantastic walk after Easter brunch. A very lively area with picturesque views of the Hudson. Along with my favorite two people in the world. My adult sons.

It is a great bridge to walk over the river, very high up, great views, might be tough for those with a fear of heights.... its pretty high up, but wide enough that you could walk down the middle of the boardwalk style bridge and not be at all near the edges. I highly recommend it if you are in the area

An absolutely lovely experience. The vistas were incredible. And easy-going walk that was very enjoyable. It can get hot though in the summertime so caution against bringing the pup

This is a nice walk, bike ride or run. Family friendly and dog friendly. Nice history to read about the area and how the bridge was built. There are flush restrooms at one side and porta potties at the Poughkeepsie side. Both ends of the bridge have a small souvenir shop.

It, as the name implies, is a walkway over the Hudson River. Old converted railroad bridge. I have done this a couple of times.

You can park on either side of the river however I have only ever parked on the west side and walked east over the river and back.

Personally I think if you have never done it, and not afraid of heights, it can be interesting to walk on a bridge over the river and look out over the river from that height. The view north is nice, especially if it is leaf season and the trees cooperate. Looking south there is another bridge.

The walk is fairly easy since the bridge itself is paved. The hardest part is getting from the car to the bridge and that is not that hard.

They close the bridge in the evening so I do not think you can be out there after dark.

Personally I do not think it is worth a special trip however, if you are going to be in the area it is worth a stop. There are a lot of many interesting things to do in that area of NY state in nice weather.

I do seem to remember that there are bathrooms on the west side of bridge.

It can get windy and cold on top of the bridge so be prepared. Personally I would reccomend doing it in warm, not hot, weather. Absolutely would not do it in inclement weather.

On the west side of the bridge I don't think there is anything special to walk to that is nearby. On the east side is Poughkeepsie. I think it is possible to walk into the town on the east side however I have never done it so I don't know how nice or easy it is. I think if I wanted to go to Poughkeepsie I would just drive there.

what a wonderful experience! The one-mile walk across the Hudson was enhanced by the sunny day and warm weather. The views were incredible!

This is not your typical tourist attraction! It was a sunny Saturday fall afternoon, perfect day for a walk. Since it was so nice and a weekend, there were a ton of people there. Cars were parked all along the road. It was mid afternoon so I figured people would be leaving and I found spot to park fairly close. It's 1.26 miles each way. It was a little breezy but still a pretty leisurely walk. Oddly enough, it seemed easier coming back. Great fun!

If the weather is good, do not miss the opportunity to walk across the bridge. It is great fun and a very easy walk. On weekends, there is a complimentary tram that will transport you one way so you only have do do half the distance. Best if it is cloudy.

This is a must-do if you are in the area! Why? Because it's beautiful and healthy and everyone is doing it! It's not just a walk over a bridge, it's dogs and people of all shapes and sizes and paces! My kids loved it because of all the dogs out walking but also all the different things we saw as we walked and we had some great conversations!

Great time except for the bikers who seem to be racing across despite clearly marked 10 mph limits. Otherwise lovely walk with nice views.

Great view overlooking the Hudson river. It’s a great place to get some exercise or pictures of the Hudson valley. The staff is amazing.

If you want to see history, commitment, and achievement through hardwork then visit this bridge.
It beautiful place with, a nice overview and the Hudson River is at its best.
30-50 mins walk.
Multiple free and paid parking nearby. Look for signs.

This was a terrible experience!!! Walked from the Water Street parking area into Highland. Upon getting to that side there are NO signs directing you where the trail continues. We should have followed everyone else who walked over the Train bridge and then returned the same way. After walking down a side street not knowing if we are on the right trail we stumbled upon the bridge. Nice walk but single file as path on bridge is narrow. At the other side it got worse. We walked through Poughkeepsie which is very sketchy to say the least. We walked through apartment complex, past train station and down dirty side streets with NO stores or places that we could or would stop. Very filthy neighborhood and not nice people. A few signs in this area but I would nor send my worst enemy there. Please avoid this walk or research the area first. I do not recommend this to anyone at all!!!! The train bridge is beautiful but do not go into Poughkeepsie. The drive in will speak volumes of what to expect. Map and brochure are false and I cannot stress enough to stay away!!! As a PS- the parking lot at Water Street is a gravely dusty terrible lot.

Great trip and perfect weather. Fall foliage was beautiful. Did a lot of walking and shopping. Walk Over the Hudson, visiting the town of Beacon, visiting local farm stand and other attractions. We ate at some great restaurants.

On a beautiful fall day with temperatures dipping into the 60's a few friends and my husband decided to take a trip over this bridge. This pedestrian bridge is 3.2 miles total back and forth. People are welcome to bring dogs and ride bikes. The views this time of the year is breathtaking. The foliage and the colors are beautiful. From left to right the Hudson River is below you. There is even seating if you need to rest. A definately recommended day trip.

This was the first time I had seen the Hudson River like this. Walking across an old bridge and being able to see the river from this standpoint. It is really a nice walk. My advice though is park on the New Paltz side of the bridge as the Poughkeepsie side is really rough and not paved.

Still it is a breathtaking walk across to see the views of the Hudson River both north and south and see the natural wonder of it all. It is well worth the trip just to see the foliage and the ships passing by. You will have wonderful picture taking positions all over the bridge.

The best part is there are clean bathrooms on both side of the bridge to visit and refreshment stands. From the Poughkeepsie side you can visit the Little Italy neighborhood and see the historic parts of the city.

Go for the views alone on a nice day.

Weather was perfect in early November. Views from both sides of the walkway were outstanding. Large number of visitors walking and bike riding onthis hidden jam in the beautiful Hudson Will definitely go back and highly recommend to others.

This is worth the visit. Parking was not easy but worth walking a little.
The walk is easy and level and windy
The views over the Hudson were so great.
Reading all the little signs with historical tidbits was fun.

This is a MUST in Poughkeepsie NY!! Bikes, walking, joggers, or just strolling are welcome and it’s free.
The Walkway is also the “great connector” between the 14-mile William R. Steinhaus Dutchess Rail Trail on the east side of the Hudson River and the four-mile Hudson Valley Rail Trail on the west.
Open sunrise to sunset. The views are breathtaking!!
Went to watch July 4th Fireworks in park below

On our way home from five days of hiking in the Catskills we decided to take the slow route home and stop along the Hudson. Lucky us to discover it was First Friday in Poughkeepsie and in addition to food and arts vendors, the evening would end with fireworks. Beautiful view. Lovely evening. Happy with our decision to stay at the Holiday Inn Express which was a few minutes further away than the Poughkeepsie Grand. The latter was more expensive and a bit run down looking.

You can walk all the way across or just part way. Fabulous views of course. Crowd is usually mixed- mostly walkers. There are a smattering of dogs, kids, elders, bikes, tourists, locals etc. I always feel safe even though its located in downtown Poukeepsie.

This old railroad bridge high above the Hudson has been turned into a bike/pedestrian walkway. What a wonderful way to see the river, the shores, the boat traffic, and the mountains in the distance. Go to Upper Landing Park to gain access to the glass-walled elevator that takes you up to the bridge.

This is a fun walk! It has a nice view of the Hudson! There are bathrooms nearby, and vendors. We always have a good time on this walk.

Access on east end is under construction but still open. They've done a nice job with the bridge and it's not too crowded. Walking and bicycling allowed.

This is a great way to enjoy the outdoors! Great even terrain, great views. After I walked over the Hudson, I sailed on the Hudson at Nothing but time sailing charters at shadows marina! I did the over and on the Hudson River in one day !

Awesome view! This is a wonderful place visit. It has very informative historic information of the history of the walkway and lovely views of the river and surrounding areas. Finding the parking was a bit of a challenge. Ending parking off Parker Avenue. There was a "free" lot that was very rocky... but was in a perfect location at the start of the walkway.

Walkway over the Hudson is where I decided almost a year ago now that I would move to the Hudson Valley. I often randomly drive and explore, and found myself passing a sign on the interstate for it and was curious. I am so glad I stopped to find it -- the views were so incredible, it's a very easy walk, there's historical information scattered throughout the walk, and even better - it's FREE! It was a cool October afternoon on my first visit, the foliage was gorgeous. I've since visited the walkway countless times in all the seasons now, and currently work a mile away from it so it's the perfect spot for an after-work stroll to take in the views, beautiful afternoons, and always stunning views of the Hudson and the mountains.

There is also a loop you can do that takes you over the Walkway, then back across the Hudson via the Mid-Hudson Bridge. The rail trail that extends past the Walkway is also a wonderful trail to take a walk, bike ride, or jog on. If you're in the Poughkeepsie area, stop on by and take a walk - you'll be glad you did!

Found where the elevator was but had a hard time finding the parking to get to the elevator. Still had a substantial walk to the elevator for someone with a walking difficulty. Did the walk on a Monday so not very crowded. Beautiful views. Didn't walk totally across since it was quite windy.

This is a great venue for some exercise, photos and a spectacular views. Easy access, can turn around at any time so it is for all levels of fitness.

Nice stroll along the walkway and back for total of 2.6 miles. Some placards at start, end and along the route provide some interesting information. Good that it is free to use and there is also free road parking close by. Naturally there are excellent views of the river but not much else to see. Would like to see it when the trees change colour in a couple weeks.

Although this walkway was initially built as a railroad bridge, when you walk across it you don’t really realize it. We were there on an early morning in July, and there were many people out talking their morning walk. The park is well maintained. We were pleased to see a nice statue honoring Sojourner Truth, who was from this area. It is our understanding that this is one of the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge, spanning 1.2 miles. We entered on the Poughkeepsie side (can also enter on the Highland side).

Its a nice walk, its take about 35 minutes from one site of the bridge to the other side. I recomended .......

This train bridge-converted pedestrian walk-way will take your breath away! Morning or night, you will enjoy the sight - guaranteed!

Hi travel friend,
This walkway was lovely, park across the street down from entrance if you are in an RV. Great views and info from/on the walkway. Bring a bag if walking your dog. No doggy stations

We flew into JFK from UK, final desitnation Vermont. Poughkeepsie was about as far as I could go after arrival. We stopped there for the night and in the morning my family took a walk across the bridge.

The Hudson is a magnificent river and this is the best way to view it.

If driving between Vt/Champlain/Adirondacks and points south this is the place to take a break, a little walk to refresh the brain and then go on your way. Dogs allowed.

Started on the Poughkeepsi side. There is free public parking so you don't have to use the paid lots. There arw bikes tgere you can rent if you wish. It was a very enjoyable walk. We went about 3/4 across, some very nice vistas.

Love bringing my Siberian Husky Sixx on the Walkway- he is like the Mayor up there! I love riding my bike or walking - it’s stunning views any way you look anytime!

This place rocks. Flat and smooth! Parking is unlimited.. you can stay an hour or walk across and back for 2 hours.. lots of people watching. All kinds of people. Nice to see boats in the river and great picture and info along the walk as well. Bike the trail both directions for a flat ride. And smooth ride. Roller blades would work too !

Great walk over the river on the repurposed railroad bridge. The weather was good (although over there high above the river the wind was blowing hard) the views are great you can see far up and down the river. We were passing through Poughkeepsie and this was like an added bonus to our trip.

What a fun way to take a walk! We were delighted to discover that the bridge is wheelchair accessible via elevator, and apparently we avoided the usual crowds by visiting on a cloudy day. The views from high above the river are beautiful, and our elevator guide was super friendly to us and our elderly blind dog. Disabled parking is available in a tiny lot that is a little bit of hard to find… It is marked as entry to the park.

Good place for a walk with nice views of the Hudson. Great food a 10 min walk from the bridge but would not want to walk around after dark.

This walk is great for everyone including your four legged family members.
All the seasons are a great time to cross over the Hudson.
The walk is flat and there is an elevator as well.
There usually have people up on the walk way selling water if you forget to bring yours.
There are water bowls also for your pets along the walkway.

This is a must thing to do in the Poughkeepsie (unless the weather is terrible). Amazing views up and down the Hudson River. A great thing to do on foot or on a bike. The surface is concrete, and wide!, with high rails on both sides. It also has even wider sections as observation areas. You can park at either end of the bridge, or park further away at a rail trail treailhead, and bike there. Lots of staff there to guide you and keep everyone safe. Seeing is believing!

New York State had renovated this dilapidated railroad bridge into a wonderful linear park with gorgeous views over the Hudson River. Parking is ample, it's free, and it's a great walk for a sunny and clear summer day. We also flew a drone for an extra special viewing experience.

I really didn’t know what to expect. It was a long walk just getting to the river. We went during the morning during the week, less congested. The views were stunning. The walk overall was pretty easy.

Amazing place. The park was super well done. Don’t waste your time with free parking, just park in the pay parking for the park. The views are incredible. There are clean bathrooms and even a food truck on site. You have access into the city from stairs or an elevator. Amazing experience.

Walkway Over the Hudson has amazing views and is a must if you’re in the area. Parking generally has a few on the Poughkeepsie side, but the day we visited it was free. There are clean restrooms and water-refilling stations on both sides of the river and lots of interpretive signage. Seemed to be a lot of construction, and I’m excited for what it will look like in the future

Easy to find parking and a quick walk up the steps. The walkway is so well maintained. They even have a complimentary tram service to take you across the bridge. The walk is very way and the view is spectacular. I took so many pictures. Enjoy this beautiful view.

Very unique walk. Amazing views. Looking to go again and explore further the parks and waterfront linked to it.

Leisurely walk back and forth across the Hudson...level and smooth surface with concessions/bathrooms on either side...notwithstanding it is outdoors, saw an awful lot of people without masks...signs from NYS clearly advise walkers to wear a mask...come on people!

Great walk over and back. Our 12 year old used his scooter. Highly recommend for views of the Hudson.

Sept. 13 the walkway was open at 7:15 to 9:30to view thw harvest moon. Temps were perfect. Some clouds but a great view of the moon and the lights on the Mid Hudson bridge. A great family event.

Saving this old railway bridge to create the Walkway over the Hudson was an ingenious idea. I'd avoid in extreme cold or heat, but otherwise, there isn't really a bad time to visit. We were there just after peak foliage, and still found the views amazing. It takes about 45 minutes to cross if you're not rushing and want to stop to take in the views and read the interpretive signs (1.29 miles). Make sure you've identified open access points before heading out. We wanted to take the elevator up from near the train station - but found out the hard way it was closed for the season. I also wish they had been just a little more creative with interpreting the span, more like Manhattan's High Line, but it's still a remarkable gem. DOGS ALLOWED!!! Do not miss!

I did this walk on a warm fall day in November and then after Christmas on a cloudy overcast day and both experiences were great. I think this is such a unique and wonderful attraction and I know I'll be making more trips back to walk it again in the future. The walk is great and the community feeling is great, too.

In December, my family and I did the loop that consists of the Walkway and then the Mid-Hudson Bridge. We were glad we did it!

Excellent views from the bridge! We parked in the free lot on Parker Street. This area had a lot of jagged rocks, so be a little cautious when maneuvering through the lot. The public restroom was very clean. The walk itself was a little more than a mile each way, there were benches midway over the bridge to sit at and take in the sites.

Rofde my bike from New Platz, across the walkway, then on the Dutchess Trail. Going over the bride was pretty awesome and the views of the Hudson were beautiful.

Beautiful Autumn day on the walkway. Very easy parking with low rates. Volunteers were very friendly and helpful. Easy access to restaurants. This is how to rejuvenate a town - good job Poughkeepsie. There should be more of these types of projects like the High Line in NYC; great use of an old structure.

We had a gorgeous day to do this walk. It is an easy 1.3 miles each way walk over the bridge. It’s great exercise but also beautiful views. We stopped along the way to take pictures. Great for walking with a dog and bicycling!

The views from the Walkway are breathtaking. We walked across the bridge into the little town of Highland for genuine Italian ice at a quaint ice cream shop. The trip back across the Mid Hudson bridge was wonderful as well.

This is such a wonderful experience to walk over the Hudson (1.3 mile) from Highlands to Poughkeepsie. Both the foliage and scenery are awesome - do not miss!

This is a great way to see the hudson and surrounding areas around it. Walkway is nicely done and there are facilities available if needed. Great way to spend a little family time with all ages, as you can stop rest and turn around at any time. Highly recommend.

You can get excersie with fantastic views of our beautiful river valley. The Rail Trail is excellent for biking and walking. The Walkway connects. Ulster and Dutchess countys

This is a "must do" when in the area. Nice walk and beautiful scenery. Parking is available on 61 Parker Ave and is a short walk to the start of the walkway. The website speaks of an elevator and walking up stairs but this was not the case on the Poughkeepsie side. The dirt lot was rocky so be careful parking but there was also street parking available.

This is obviously a beautiful bridge for pedestrians, with gorgeous views. Parking is good around the elevator, but not great around the start of the walkway. We needed to use the elevator because of mobility issues, and it was broke. There was no signage indicating so, however. And still currently read it still is broken. This keeps people from having easy access that is necessary. Please fix it!

Very nice park adjacent.

This is a great walk. Great views of the Hudson River and the surrounding area. The facilities are very attractive and well-maintained. I had my first experience of watching the passing of a train from above the tracks.

It is very clean
Lots of parking.
The view is phenomenal.
There are lots of people around.
There are restaurants nearby.
It is good excercise

Recommended by hotel staff, so decided to try it. It was a lovely walk on a fall day. The view is spectacular. It was easy to locate and find parking on a Sunday afternoon. There was an event happening, for which there was a charge, but for those of us just wanting to do the walkway there was no charge. Just taking a casual stroll, we were almost at the other end in less than an hour. Absolutely lovely, historic and interesting.

You can't visit Poughkeepsie and not visit the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park. It's a wonderful walk over the Hudson with beautiful views on the way. We enjoyed every second of it.

From the Upper Landing Park, you can take a free elevator up to the bridge. We highly recommend taking it either up or down, or both, as the views on the way are great too. It's a glass elevator!

This is a pleasant enough walk, but the views are nothing special. Downtown Poughkeepsie on one side, tree covered hills on the other, and a view of the river and the nearby automobile bridge downriver. If you are looking for place to include in a run, this is worth adding to the route (although you are running on concrete).

We visited in August. I imagine the views are quite different in the Fall, when the leaves have turned.

Beautiful walkway that is accessible from either side of the river. Wide enough for walkers and bikers to feel safely distanced. The view was beautiful and the area was very clean and safe.

This is a converted railroad bridge that is now a popular walkway over the Hudson River. It was pretty crowded over Labor Day weekend and the walk gave us a nice one hour plus activity and a beautiful view of the river and shorelines. Parking is kind of limited on the east side but we did find a spot in a rocky dirt lot that worked out fine. Clean restrooms at both ends and some vendors providing drinks and snacks, so the whole set up is very professional and an excellent use of tax dollars.

This bridge was only a 10 minute walk from our AirBnB, great way to start the day. Great views, plus lots of history placards on the route to learn more about how it came to be.

My husband and I hit Hyde Park early afternoon and decided we would check this walkway out. What I beautiful way to work out the kinks from being in the car all day. I am afraid of heights and thought I would just ease out to just where I could see the river, but we ended up walking all the way across the river and loving it. The path is very wide and protected by fencing that does not ruin your view, but lends security.
It is an active area, full of walkers of all ilk and bikers. There are also docents present to answer questions or just chat.
Be aware that the walk from the parking lot to the actual walkway is fairly long, but we are casual walkers and seniors and did fine.

Strongly recommend to visit this walkway which gives you a fantastic view of the landscape. It also has very good facilities like toilets and a picnic place at the town of Lloyd end. Just make sure you carry some bottles of water with you as it is a 1.26 mile walk one way!

Loved taking the walk over the Hudson
We parked on the Highland side walked to and back from Poughkeepsie side.
Would have liked an information boith to ask about local restaurants abd activities. Nobody around
Not sure why
Nice day overall

Breathtaking and pleasant walkway. Walkway area was well kept and clean. I wasn't aware of this until we were leaving but it seems like there are 2 types of parking lots right next door to each other. One is free, the other is $5.

We did the bike rail to trail over the bridge. Enjoyed the view, cloudy and of course windy. The trail is pretty level and very pretty. Warmer on the trail than the bridge but at 210 feet above water I would expect that.

We were in Poughkeepsie on a perfect weather day and walked this bridge with friends. The views are great and the informational plaques along the way added to our knowledge of the area. There are other trails that extend off the walkway at either end. If we returned, we would try some of those.

Beautiful day and beautiful views for this lovely walk over the Hudson river. Parking at the restrooms were wonderful and the views great. Easy access from elevator down to the children’s museum for those with kids. Also have a bicycle rentals if you prefer not to walk

Since we have family in the area, we always walk over the Hudson every time we are there. It’s such a beautiful place to walk and very safe. There are older people, young families, bike riders and groups of very friendly people. This is a must do if you are in the area. And it’s free!

This was a great activity for us while staying in the area. This is a great family, friends or couples outdoor walk. Lots of families, dogs, bikes and people of all ages. They have some very helpful volunteers that can help you get the most out of your visit.

The walk is about 2 miles across and is a flat easy walk. The bridge is clean, sturdy and a great place for some incredible views. It is windy in the middle of the bridge but closer to land is less windy.

Beautiful views of the Hudson north and south from Poughkeepsie. Old bridge rehabbed for pedestrians. Very cool experience and nice historical tidbits posted on the bridge railings.

A wonderful visit and walk on the bridge. Great views and lots of history in the area too. Highly recommend.

You can get on this former railroad bridge...now a pedestrian walkway from the east side of the Hudson River at Poughkeepsie or the west side at Highland New York. Views north and south take you up and down the Hudson River ; views east and west let you enjoy downtown Poughkeepsie or more rural New York. We failed in our walk due to rain and wind but we could observe this walkway from the passenger bridge to the south as we traversed by car or from restaurants perched on the river shoreline. Enjoy.

While staying with family in Poughkeepsie, we set off on our walk early. It was nearly 90 degrees at 9:00. As we got to the middle of the walkway, there was actually a coolish breeze! It was wonderful seeing so many people walking, running and biking enjoying the beautiful views up and down the Hudson River.

While exploring Poughkeepsie, my wife and I climbed the stairs to the Walkway Over the Hudson. The walkway stretches for over a mile and was originally a railroad bridge built in the late 1800's. It was reopened as a pedestrian only bridge in 2009. It is for walkers and bikes only and affords breathtaking views of the Hudson. If you get tired on your walk, there are electric trams that will pick you up for no charge. For great views explore the Walkway Hudson Park.

The Walkway Over the Hudson is an old railroad bridge that spans about a mile and a quarter over the Hudson River. It is open all year long and at certain times (ie: 4th of July, Memorial Day, other celebrations, etc. there are fireworks at night). The views are incredible, it is great exercise. There are different stations along the way with historic notes about the walkway. A must to see and do if you are in Poughkeepsie.

Great way to enjoy the beauty of the Huddon Valley, exercise, meet up with great friends. Awesome views and special events! Bring the whole family!

An absolute terrific experience for your walk/run. See miles along the Hudson Valley and the Hudson River. Consider all of the history you're walking over and seeing. I can't afford you the words that is the real experience. Best time of the year is the Fall, but the Spring is also wonderful

Walk across the beautiful Hudson River with awesome views of the river banks and the city. Bikes available for rent if you don’t want to walk. It’s about 1.3 miles from one ND to the other with parking on other sides.

Most excellent bike trail-riding over the Hudson Walkway Bridge.This amazing structure is a must-ride for all bikers regardless of athletic abilities.Fun ride can be extended by countless scenic miles on entirely paved path with no elevation changes(Duchess Trail).

We parked in the free parking lot on the Poughkeepsie side. Even though it was very chilly and windy, we still enjoyed the walk and the view of the Hudson River. There's clean restrooms on the other side and a vendor selling pretzels and snacks.

Such a great use of space. We only made it half way across but really loved the experience. Everyone walking was respectful of space and of our slow speed. Appreciated the benches along the way to rest and take in the view. This walk is very clean and very well maintained.

relaxing and fun long walk across the Hudson River. It is peaceful and great exercise. My husband and I really enjoyed it

Seeing photos online, and even from a distance in person, I wasn't sure what to expect once we were up on the bridge. However, once we were up there, just wow! Rally beautiful view of the Hudson and surrounding areas. I actually also enjoyed the views of Poughkeepsie from such a high elevation.

We visited on a cold morning. I would love to experience it during warmer weather, but certainly doable even when it is cold.

We entered the bridge from the Poughkeepsie side and walked half way across before returning the way we came. I was surprised because the bridge was mostly the same elevation from the moment we entered (I think it sloped upward slightly), so it is accessible without needing to climb tons of stairs or something.

We'd heard about this trail, but we weren't prepared for how exciting it really is.
The built-to-last railroad trestle has been transformed into a beautiful walkway you can enjoy in so many ways. Walking, running, biking, all allowed. You can walk all the way across, part-way, or just stand in one spot and enjoy the view. There are excellent facilities at both ends of the bridge, so it makes a good place to take all the kids, push a stroller, even take lunch. There are benches along the way if you need to rest and lots of information posters.
There is some construction going on, adding more access.
And COVID has parts of the visitor centers closed.
Weekdays are rarely crowded, but even on busy weekends, there is more than enough space to distance. Masks are required in close quarters.
On weekends, it's the perfect vantage point to see hundred of boats on the river.
Sunsets are gorgeous there, but the park closes quickly after the sun is gone.
It you take small children, keep in mind how far you want to go. Halfway works well. We saw several families struggling to get back after going all the way over and turning around.
We keep going again and again.

We were just traveling through the Hudson area so we were not familiar with how to do things here. We wish there had been more signage to help us tourists. But we found a parking lot with several open spots, saw a pay machine, so decided we better pay for parking. It was $5. We left the receipt on our dashboard. Our car was still there and we had no ticket when we got back to our car, so I guess we did that right. The walk from the parking lot to the actual bridge is a good walk in itself. We continued on until we were definitely over the river, enjoyed the beautiful views, took some photos, and returned to our car. We were probably here about an hour or so. There were plenty of people in the area enjoying the great weather that day, too. There are restrooms at the ends of the path as well. We felt safe around the bridge and even saw several people exercising alone. You will find walkers, runners, bikers, scooters, and even wheelchairs all on this wide path over the Hudson River. The walkers are supposed to stay close to the edge so the bikes and others moving faster can go down the center of the path. There was one food truck open at the time of day we were there, but it looks like there were a few others that were just closed at that time. This is such a nice thing that NY has for its residents and guests. The views are pretty awesome, too!

We went during a heat wave so opted for the glass elevator, accessed from the Upper Landing Park on the Poughkeepsie side. This eliminated the walk over land which would have been interesting but was decided against due to a long day of activity planned. Interpretive signage along the way brought the bridge's story to life. Many people obviously use the bridge as part of their regular exercise - lucky them! The bridge is incredibly high, made more obvious when looking toward the Mid Hudson Bridge to the south, and clearly much lower. The deck is made up of 973, 15 ton sections of concrete that were preformed and placed. That's 14,595 tons of concrete supported by steel that's been in place for 136 years - pretty incredible!

Drove nearly 2 hrs from nyc. The drive was scenic arriving at the Walkway. The walk over the river was very windy. I was not prepared for that. There was a souvenir shop and a snack cart at one end of the bridge. The restrooms were clean and usable.

I nice flat walk over the Hudson. Wear sunscreen and carry a beverage! Parking nearby was very easy.

Great choice for a walk or bike ride any time, but a particularly enjoyable way to escape winter cabin-fever on an early March day that hinted of Spring. The views up and down the river are just majestic.

We did the Hudson walkway on a very warm Monday. Despite the heat it was a nice walk -- great views on either side. The paving made the walk -- about 2 miles in either direction an easy one. Clean restrooms on both sides. No real other amenities on a Monday though. Poughkeepsie side has some restaurants you can walk down to. Glad we did this.

This is a pedestrian only walkway. To walk from one side to the other takes a full hour, so be ready. It’s wide and flat with plenty of space for walkers and bicycles. I’m visiting from another state so I don’t know of any special events that happen there. The views are nice, but make sure to park at the official parking location.

This is a great place for a walk with excellent views of the city and the Hudson river. It is very easy to find and a very small distance outside the center of the city but in a suburban area so no traffic or parking problems when we went. It is a simple concrete strip placed on an old railway bridge 20 + stories over the Hudson so the views are remarkable even as you walk over the city itself. It takes an hour to cross each way that is with taking time to stop often and take in the scenery. At each end there is a small park with a single food truck. However that is all there is outside of the elevator. A very few small plaques which can be read without even slowing down are all there is. Beware the sun is very bright when reflected off the white concrete and there is no shade anywhere once you leave the small parks at each end. The almost complete lack of benches means you will be on your feet the whole hour each way. We encountered crying small children who were hot and bored pretty views only last a few minutes for a small child. Not all dog owners pick up after their pets as well. This is a truly wonderful experience but prepare well for 2 hours walking in intense sun no shade and very few benches. Bring water for the walk.

During our visit to the Hudson Valley my wife and I made a point of checking out the Walkway. What a wonderful idea, to devote a bridge spanning the Hudson River to pedestrians and cyclists. The walk across and back is just over 2.5 miles and is well worth the distance. We walked in the evening when the temperature dropped a bit. It was a pleasure to enjoy the sunset and views up and down the Hudson. We enjoyed the walk so much that we returned to repeat it on several more evenings. This is a great bit of pleasant exercise....and it's free

An Engineering Landmark and a must see for my Civil Engineer husband. It's a nice walk with a great view over the Hudson. It was difficult to find the parking area. They are building a new one which may be completed by now. Note that Google Maps took us to an incorrect parking location so you may want to double check before you start.

This is a perfect way to spend the day away from the chaotic city. The bridge is suitable to walk, jog, or ride your bike without inhaling car fumes. Respectfully, for the older folks, there are benches along the path so that they can rest along the way. It's location is ideal in viewing the river and boats sailing through. Also provides an opportunity to observe nature at it's best with the trees commencing to change color or birdwatching. It's a clean, relaxing, and peaceful atmosphere. Restrooms are located just before crossing the bridge and historical information signs about the bridge's construction and surrounding wildlife. On occasions there are festivals and health conscious activities on or near the bridge.
It's an easy drive by car or accessible by metro north as well.

This is Hudson Valley’s most prized location. Been there many times with friends and family. One hot July day, I took my out of town sister, daughter and granddaughter (age 1 in a stroller) up. Spent about an hour and when we went to leave, the elevator was broken down! We spent the next almost hour stuck up there in the blazing sun with no respite!! The baby was asleep in her stroller and we gathered around her so she wouldn’t get burned in the sun. My sister, who is diabetic became ill. No way to get down. Very scary! Our car was parked near the middle of the bridge so being escorted to either end would not have helped. Employees on bicycles did offer us water, ice, etc. Bridge needs a second elevator, since the only one there breaks down too often. Definitely needs a small area of shade somewhere. Suggest parking on the ends of the bridge. Gave it a very good rating anyway because other than this one time, it’s always been a beautiful experience.

The bridge has no shade, and be cautious about your furry friend’s paws in summer. If you are taking your dog, be there early in the morning. When we got there around 8:30 in the morning, the unpaved lot on the Highland side had a lot of empty spots. The restrooms in both sides are well maintained, and there are fresh water and free poop bags for furry friends. Be sure to grab one just in case. There are also quite a few benches on the bridge if you need to appreciate the view or catch your breath.
Water fountains and vending machines are also found.

The Walkway over the Hudson is lovely and so is the Hudson Valley Rail Trail on both sides of the bridge walkway. However, I would NOT recommend the suggested loop trial that goes through Poughkeepsie and Highland. The trail loop through Poughkeepsie is not made for biking. The sidewalks are uneven, narrow in spots and doesn't take you through a very nice area. At one point, we didn't even feel very safe. You have to cross over an exit and entrance ramp for a highway to get to Mid-Hudson Bridge. We enjoyed this bridge but also did not enjoy the venture after the bridge. We were hoping to take the Highland Landing/Oakes Rd path along the river, but in order to get there you would have to carry your bike down a long narrow staircase. Since we weren't about to do that, we traveled up hill for quite some time. The hills were long and very step!!! I had to get off my bike several times and walk because I was out of breath and I am a slender, fit active woman!! My husband and I were not happy. Then we were looking forward to the "quaint town" of Highland Hamlet. Well, the town was deserted for a beautiful fall Sunday afternoon. The sidewalks weren't made for biking here either and the trail wasn't clearly marked so we actually were lost at one point. The moral of the story is if you are biking the Walkway Over the Hudson stay on the rail trail for a much more relaxing and enjoyable bike ride!

The walk was great and the views spectacular. We took lots of pictures and took in the beauty of the area. This was the first place we visited when we arrived and it really set the tone for a great weekend. It is over a mile long (each way) and definitely worth every step.

Pleasant Walk With eA Nice View. Don't know if it was worth the two hour trip. We probably could have found nice views of the Hudson River closer to home. We were hoping to see some nice fall foliage. Leaves were changing but not quit peek. Walkway on a Thursday morning was not crowed and it was easy to social distance. Most people were wearing masks. A problem was that there were no restrooms and after a two hour ride and walk across the bridge needed one. Another problem was that we we had hard time finding a restaurant with outdoor dinning. We drove around and were about to give up when we drove past the Mill House which was setup very nicely with a tent for outdoor dinning.

This is an easily accessible (with a car), quintessential Hudson River Valley experience. The round trip walk over the old railroad bridge offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is only about a mile and one half end to end. There are food trucks on the west side offering refreshments. You can walk into explore the neighborhoods of Poughkeepsie on the east side or continue on park trails for a longer walk on the west side. It was interesting stopping and reading the historical signs. Very worth the trip.

The Walkway is the best thing in Dutchess County. Every week the scenery changes. There is always a breeze on the river. People come from all over the world. The new bathroom buildings are gorgeous. I love coming here to walk alone, with dog, or bike. Some days it is super crowded, weekdays are better. Special events are cool. You must come see it!

We did this on a nice weekend day. Lots of other people had the same idea, so it was a bit crowded... since this is during COVID, I would estimate that there was about 80% mask wearing, so thats not too bad, we also wore masks during the entire walk. We approached from the east side of the river in Poughkeepsie - there is limited parking. Furthermore, it looked like they blocked every other spot due to COVID, perhaps to try to cut down on the crowds.... not sure, anyways, we ended up parking in the neighborhood, which a lot of people were doing... the neighborhood seems "ok" and there was a few restaurants nearby. Im wondering if maybe its a bit better to park on the West side of the attraction, but not sure on that. We walked from east to west and back, it took about 90 minutes at a leisurely pace. On the west side, there is a gift shop, some restrooms and a few food concessions. It gives some good views of the river, you can watch boats and trains pass by, a fun activity for when the weather is nice.

Instead of zipping across the Hudson River in a car, take the time to truly enjoy this beautiful waterway! At only 1.28 miles and perfectly flat, this is great for everyone. Such a nicely done little park. They really did a first rate job making this for people.

If your not scared of heights this is a beautiful walk. The views are spectacular. The Hudson river running below it makes for another reason to visit

This is a great idea and certainly very popular! The west side has much more parking than the east side. I don't know what summers are going to look like to get a parking spot in Poughkeepsie. The paid lot (which at the moment you don't pay for) is tiny, the "free lot" which is located adjacent to the trail but is dirt and boulder, is not Rail Trail property and people aren't supposed to park there. Very poor planning.

This is the old train bridge crossing the Hudson river that has been beautifully converted to a walking, biking access over the Hudson river. The wide concrete thoroughfare with glass and steel side barriers make if an excellent safe path to walk of bike over the Hudson. If you plan to walk the entire length, take water and be prepared to cover the 1.5 mile round trip. Highly recommended even if you only go half way.

This was perfect on a hot July afternoon. We parked in the free dirt lot and did the approximately 3 mile round trip in an hour. Great repurposing of a magnificent structure, this is the number one thing to do in town. Interesting history, clean, multi use, great vistas. I can see why it’s so popular. A must do activity.

We went on an evening opening of the bridge as part of our Adventure Vacation. Long walk, but very peaceful in the "mostly" dark.

We took a leisurely walk over the Hudson River. The breeze on a summer day was wonderful. The walkway is family friendly on foot, on bicycle or with a stroller. Dogs are welcome if you clean up after them.

This bridge is long. Very long. Did I mention how long it is? We should have brought bikes. The good thing about New York is that if you pay for one state park you can use that ticket for any state park but boy...this is a long bridge. It was a great day and we saw all kinds of sights but don't go after hiking other parks that day unless you bring a bike. It was definitely worth it and good for people watching too.

I love the Walkway Over the Hudson. I live in the area and walk in every Sunday. The views are amazing. The walkway is a great place to spend time with friends and family and get some exercise too.

This is a great landmark in the Hudson Valley area. If you are anywhere near here, you must at least park the car and take a quick walk. It is a popular place for locals who exercise or just want to go on a nice walk, so don't expect it to be just tourists. And regardless of the season, except for winter, it will be busy. The sunset is also beautiful if you catch it on a nice day. Did not get a chance to upload a picture but there are many accurate pictures uploaded already.

We have been to the Walkway of the Hudson several times while visiting the area. It is a great place to walk safely while enjoying a view of the river. We have been there in all four seasons and there is something different to see each season. In the winter, it was interesting seeing the part of the river that was frozen. It does get busy during the weekends and you do have to watch for bike riders, but it is a unique place to walk.

Always stop here to walk whenever I'm in the area for business or pleasure. The views are amazing and you get a good walk in! Lola's on the Poughkeepsie side is a great place to grab a bite to go or sit down at the foot of the stairs.
Love this place!

My hubby and I were intrigued by the idea of walking a bridge which would take us over the Hudson River, so on a recent trip to Poughkeepsie we set out to do just that. We enlisted the Google Map machine's help since we were unfamiliar with the area. Perhaps it was the presence of two big metal bridges or just slow reactions on our part to instructions, but no, that wasn't it. The app repeatedly froze and we were more or less left to guess how to get there. We saw one sign. Not super helpful. We could see the bridge, we just couldn't find where to access it. Is there a park? A parking lot? I couldn't tell you. The closest we got to it was a set of rusty steps we saw going up the side of a steep hill in a sort of an iffy neighborhood. By this time the evening was sliding into night so we gave up and headed back to our hotel with mission not accomplished. If someone familiar with this "attraction" can change my mind I'd be open to convincing, but if this is the best Poughkeepsie has to offer, it's pretty unimpressive.

We tried to park at the normal lot, and it was a bit of a cluster. It was a busy sunny Saturday, so lots of people walking. We found it much easier to park at the alternative parking on Washington (Pulaski Park) and then walk up the stairs. Great place to walk, bike, scooter and check out the Hudson. I think we went out for about an hour or so. Most people were wearing masks and there is plenty of fresh air!

This was not a destination we sought but read about it when we were in Poughkeepsie. It was worth walking over the bridge and we learned quite a bit about it being a focal point for a lot of the locals. It helped that it was a very beautiful spring day. Well worth a visit.

This was a great adventure. Great exercise (moderate walking), great views of the Hudson and other landmarks, and great interaction with other walkers. HOWEVER, if you go during summer , bring a hat, or maybe even an umbrella, because the sun is relentless. The good news is that there's a refreshment stand midway, where you can get cold drinks and delicious Italian Ices.

Great views. Nice walk. Parking is available nearby. Follow your walk with a visit to one of the nearby restaurants, especially on the Poughkeepsie side.

We enjoyed a lovely walk on this bridge from Poughkeepsie across, then back. We did also walk a while on the trail on the New Paltz side of the bridge. I wanted to do the loop and walk the other bridge also...but as we were parking hubby wasn't that impressed with the neighborhood and we decided not to go the loop. Our parking was free as the machine was out of order...a win for us apparently!!
On a Wednesday morning after schools had resumed it was very quiet on the bridge. We had masks, but most of the time it was easy to social distance. It was a little windy, but the day we walked wasn't that windy. There were walkers, joggers, dogs, bikes, and strollers.
There are bathrooms on both sides of the bridge which were well kept. They are working on the bridge as well as the visitor center. There was actually quite a bit of construction going on, which I was happy to see in these pandemic times.
We missed the fall foliage by a couple weeks, but I bet it is gorgeous!

Always enjoy driving by at night and seeing the pretty lights which colors are changed for the different holidays. A beautiful landmark.

The Walkway Over the Hudson is a great way to spend an afternoon. It is 1.28 mile long, a former railroad track, and very doable no matter what your situation is. We continued our trek through the town of Poughkeepsie, traveling through some depressed neighborhoods but none-the-less having a great walk. Will do it again at some point.

We arrived the day before a wedding in Milton, NY- part of the Hudson Valley. To take advantage of our free time the next before the next day’s wedding, we were encouraged by the groom’s parents to explore the Walkway Over The Hudson. We are so glad we did!

On a beautiful fall day, we strolled across the former railroad bridge. A sign on the bridge explained it as one of few “cantilever” bridges ever built (and I believe it said, the only one left.) As you travel across, be sure to read other signs attached to the sides of the bridge for added historical information.

You can’t possibly miss the spectacular views of the Hudson River and the Mid-Hudson Bridge because they are all around you! You will want to bring your phone or a camera to capture it all. Sit down on one of the many benches when you need a rest. Note that bicycle riders are also allowed on the bridge, so be aware as you walk to avoid getting in someone’s path.

Please make time for this super attraction the next time you are in this area. You won’t be disappointed! Oh, don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes!

We are so fortunate to have this right in our backyard. The views are spectacular especially when the leaves change.

Wonderful walk over the Hudson River. We only walked half way and back, but it was worth it. Free parking as well. Very relaxing and fun.

really nice and pleasant family stroll with great views. worth the trip and fun for all ages. Clean and plenty of parking

This is a great place to walk on a nice day. The walk is approximately 1.3 miles in length each way and you can choose to start on either side. The bridge is flat and concrete and wide so there is plenty of room for people to walk. The view is really nice and it is a relaxing way to spend a morning or afternoon. There were also people riding bikes or roller blading as well.

What a nice place to take a walk. We met on the Highland side and walked across. Beautiful views and friendly people. Good bathrooms on either end. Take the elevator down to the waterfront as well.

Phenomenal views of The Hudson River! We were on our way to Albany and decided to stop to see the walkway. It was definitely worth the visit. The walkway is quite spacious with room for walking and biking. The views of the Hudson and surrounding towns are breathtaking. There are historic markers and information along the walk and some illustrated signs that show you what you are looking at from the walkway, ie. Marist College, Mid-Hudson Bridge... It took me and my family (husband and two teenagers) about a half hour to walk the entire span and we ended up on the Poughkeepsie side where we decided to have lunch. It was a hot Saturday in July and we walked around Little Italy for quite awhile before finding any sit-down food establishments that were open so I would recommend just getting a snack at the concessions on either side of the walkway, packing your own food/picnic or making advanced reservations if you plan to dine before or after your walk, unless you like wandering around for almost an hour in the heat before finding a place that's open on a Saturday in July!

Overall it was a great experience walking over The Hudson River and seeing spectacular views of The Hudson Valley. Highly recommended and impressed by the determination and efforts of the people that made this walkway possible for the public to enjoy. Thank you!

The bridge is a nice walk (just about 1.5 miles across) and offers some nice views of the Hudson River. If you're a railfan this is a particularly nice walk as you get great views of the main lines on both sides of the Hudson including the busy river line on the west side. Saw roughly 5 trains in about an hour visit.

We enjoyed it very much. it reminded me the when we were on the roof top of the World Trade Center but in much more natural way. The green mountains, breeze of clean air walking high over the Hudson River. The view of the Mid Hudson Bridge which runs along side in the distance makes the view spectacular. Great opportunity for Photo's
This is a must for old and young.
Romantic? Why not, take your love of your life to such a place it will add to your Romantic life. It is Nature. Gods world is running under your feet.

After seeing this from a train years ago, I knew I wanted to go back. My husband and I stopped here on the way to vacation downstate, and rode our bikes across. What a cool use of space, and the views were fantastic!! Everyone was respectfully wearing masks and keeping a distance. Its windy, and breathtaking, and beautiful. It was a truly unique experience.

My husband and I came here on Halloween weekend and it was gorgeous.

It was beautiful crisp fall day and the foliage was outstanding.
Will definitely be back.

A great way to see the Hudson and get a little exercise. There is fee parking on the Poughkeepsie side. The free parking on the Poughkeepsie side is a rock strewn unpaved lot. You have to drive a bit past the unpaved lot and turn left to access the paid and paved lot. There is FREE parking on the west side. Bathrooms are available on both sides and were clean when I visited. It truly is a fun experience.

Great place to visit. Amazing walk. Remember they close at sunset so be early. Free parking on both side and you can ride a bike if you like. This is a must do.

Some of the best views of the Hudson River, especially on the forth of July, the walkway is great for family time as well. It is very wide and does no sway.

Great way to spend some time, a couple hours if you take it leisurely or shorter if you're doing this for the exercise. Beautiful vistas of the Hudson River, Poughkeepsie, the Mid-Hudson bridge, the mountains and general scenery around. We loved the walk across the river!

Parked in parking on Parker Ave. Brought bikes and was on the walkway in no time. Beautiful views of both sides of Hudson, Poughkeepsie, Highland and Mid-Hudson bridge. Also rode several miles on rail trail toward Hopewell Junction. Awesome bike trail, paved, well marked with many road crossings and bathrooms along the way. Don't miss this walkway weather your walking or riding a bike. It is about 3 miles round trip from either ends parking across the span and back. Many historic sites in the area. Poughkeepsie can be a little shady so lock your vehicle and park in the lot. Plenty of patrols to keep you safe.

Beautiful walk but poorly marked as to where to park. Paying to park was another battle. Once on the bridge, it was very nice.

Very nicely done walkway across the Hudson River. It is very wide, so there is plenty of room to share with bikers and joggers. We started at the Ulster Welcome Center section and walked across to Poughkeepsie. You can either walk back across or follow well-placed signs to do a loop that will take you through the city. Be aware that the loop walk will take you onto sidewalks along streets with cars - so it is not strictly a pedestrian walk like the Walkway Across the Hudson. There are restrooms on both ends of the walkway. There was a food truck open when we were there serving coffee and other snacks - Mercurial Coffee Company - and it was quite good. The walkway is pet friendly. We enjoyed this activity!

We bicycled thru this wonderful walking bridge, on our way biking the Hudson River trail! The view from this bridge is excellent, breathtaking ! We really enjoyed the excellent sights!

The view of the Hudson river and scenery is excellent. There is a lot of room for foot traffic and bikes also. We made a purchase at the souvenir shop which offers a nice selection of stuff. Perhaps the parking lot road surface can be improved since it was very uneven. There could be a more clear sign telling visitors where to go for the paid parking - something we had to look for. It was a day well spent and we are happy we found it.

I was out for a beautiful Sunday drive to get a little “space” from Covid lockdown. I drove up the west side of the Hudson River and stopped off for a walk over the Walkway. What an awesome state park. An old railroad bridge 200+ feet over the river with incredible views. I entered on the west side which is the more formal entrance with real bathrooms available. There were quite a few people walking, jogging or biking along the mile plus walkway. Don’t forget to wander down below the bridge, for a different perspective and more great views. I feel a connection to this bridge as my ancestors grew up in the area and my grandfather worked on steam locomotives nearby. They have several historical and environmental info displays and pictures.

I’m thrilled that a walkway like this exists. It’s family and pet friendly. It goes on forever, there’s places to sit, elevators and stairs leading up to it (in the downtown section). I think there should be a divider between bikers and walkers.

This is the world's longest elevated pedestrian bridge at 1.28 miles that takes you over the Hudson River. It was starting to get cloudy so we checked the weather because you do not want to get stuck in the middle of the bridge in a thunder/lightning storm. We arrived at 10am and the weather said the storm would start around 3pm so we started walking.

There were plenty of people walking with dogs and of course I have to talk to them about their pet and play with the dogs. There were also people biking across the bridge. We were about halfway across when we heard the first thunder (and if you hear thunder you have a chance of being struck by lightning) so we took off running back to the visitor center at the start of the bridge. It didn't start to pour until we were about 1/4 mile from the end but we still got soaked.

We ended up going back on a sunny day and the views were amazing. It might not be your thing if you tire quickly of looking at water by I enjoyed it.

It is so nice to walk over the bridge! People go solo, for a romantic date, or with families of all ages! Beautiful views and make sure to take a ride on the glass elevator. 😁 Also, have you kids use the toilets before you get on the actual bride. 👌there are some porta-potties before you get on.

We added this attraction to a trip up the Hudson River Valley and found it was well worth it.

Apart from the historical aspect the views of the river, city and surrounding valley from this very tall former railway bridge are very extensive.

We enjoyed beautiful views walking above the Hudson River.

PROS:

Bridge/history interesting and an engineering feat.
Views of the gorgeous water below.
Easy, flat one-mile walk across the bridge.

CONS:

No respite from the sun /no shade.
No water fountains available.
Few places to sit and rest.
Had to dodge bikers and dogs.
Poor signage to find parking on the Poughkeepsie side.

*****

Hopefully there will someday be more benches, a bike path, place for shaded rest, some beautification efforts on the actual bridge

Beautiful morning for s nicehour walk. Loved the view, nice clean safe area. Could not ask for a more beautiful way to start your day

You can make this a 30 minute, or a two hour, visit just depending on how much time you have and how much you want o walk. The Poughkeepsie side starts in a parking lot (paid, but on some on street available) as you walk over two blocks of housing toward the river. Note that you can also start riverside and take an elevator up to avoid this section. This portion of the trail is shaded, a nice feature in summer. There are exhibit signs along the way explaining historical features of the bridge, and the variety of people (dog walking, biking, jogging) taking advantage of the free scenic walk adds to the milieu. The entire walk is 1.3 miles, 2.6 if you go over and back. But you can just walk to the middle and view the Hudson and river traffic.

My friend and I were excited to drive upstate to walk over the Hudson. We had heard that it is beautiful. Alas, it was not. Well, the view over the Hudson was lovely, but the Walkway itself was exceedingly boring and not very visitor friendly. We had expected it to be outfitted like the High Line in New York City, That has lots of beautiful plantings, scultpures and other artwork, and plenty of places to purchase ice cream and other small bites, and places to sit to rest or people watch. The Walkway had none of this. It is a wide, empty, concrete road. There are no plantings or artwork, nothing to make it pretty or interesting. There are very few benches and no shade at all. There were one or two food vendors, but no place to sit and eat. People and bikes compete for the same space as there are no delineated bike lanes. It was very sparsely used for a beautiful July Sunday afternoon, not many tourists, mostly locals- and no wonder.
City of Poughkeepsie, you are missing a real opportunity here to bring art, music, and life to this area. And commerce as well- if this was a better attraction, restaurants and boutiques would follow in the area. This was a great disappointment.
I give two stars to the view, only one for the bridge.

We parked on the west side of the river. It is about 100 yards to the entrance of the park. There are concessions & restrooms there. Then it is about another 100 yards to the bridge. This is a railroad bridge that is now just for pedestrians. There is no admission cost. It is flat & easy to walk. Or you can ride your bike on the bridge. If you want to walk all of the way across the bridge & back allow plenty of time as the bridge is a little over a mile long. My wife walked about a quarter of the way out & I walked to the halfway point & back. I'm glad we visited.

We had a very relaxing walk across the Hudson river. The walkway was wide and uncrowded; you can walk 1.5 miles each way if you wish, we turned around before reaching the end. Numerous signs told of the history of the former railroad bridge. A very pleasant way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

This was delightful—especially on a beautiful day. You just walk out over the Hudson, and get gorgeous views.

Choose how long you want to walk, or how much time you want to spend!

You can walk halfway, or all the way across, or even make a big loop, following a couple of options they have mapped out, that involve going back over the other nearby bridge and back through town.

They have some nice little signs about the history of the place too.

It's free, easy, flat, and absolutely delightful.

Seeing a view like that, with a long horizon, is refreshing and good for the soul, particularly these days when we have all been hunkered down at home so much because of the covid pandemic.

The whole family enjoyed the walk after eating lunch in a local diner. It was a hot summer day when we went but the breeze on the bridge helped cool us off. There were benches available if you need a breather. There was free parking. It was worth the little time we spent there before heading to another destination.

great walk pal! i'm can't wait to go back some time loves but i did see a man with some stuff saleing it don't know what it was it was white and powter like...

This was a great place to see the river. Beautiful views and nice breezes were up there. Worth the walk.

I recommend going early in the day, when the walkway isn't too crowded and you can take pictures of the gorgeous scenery.

A surprise drive for my birthday. It was so much fun. The only problem was that the signs to turn to do the whole loop were not clear to us.....we overshot by a few miles! Great views, great people watching!

What a fun thing to do with an old RR bridge! The made it people/bikes/strollers/runners/dog friendly and FREE! You can get on it from either side of the Hudson or take the elevator up. And the area is gorgeous!

Fantastic!!!! Splendid views and an unforgettable experience. See the Hudson River from above!! A half an hour one way.

Great walk over the Hudson. The views are amazing. I recommend starting at the Ulster visitor center if you need parking. They have a ton of on street parking and a large gravel lot.

It was beautiful. The scenery was amazing and plus you get a good workout. It has a gift shop. You can also take a ride across if you are disabled or can’t walk. Public parking was 7 bucks for 4 hours. The views. Perfect

Well-maintained. Nice view. If I were local I would enjoy walking or running this on a regular basis. But if I was visiting (like we were) - I think there must be better tourist attractions. There were some interesting displays explaining the history of the area and the building of the walkway. We didn’t go to any of the restaurants or shops on either side but they looked quaint. Worth checking out but may not deserve a spot at the top of your list.

Having a bird's eye view of the Hudson, and both shores, is amazing. I definitely recommend it for families, couples, and individual walkers.

Simple walk across the Hudson River. Great views. Pet friendly. New visitor centers now on either side of the river (with restrooms). Parking on Poughkeepsie side could use a little bit of work.

This Walkway Over The Hudson is so cool. We had a choice of 98 degrees and sun and went back the next day in haze and rain and it was still very cool! We entered the trail at the New Restrooms/Entrance and Parking Area on Parker Avenue. Parking costs $5.00 but the Walkway is free. It is a short gentle walk to where the stairs and elevator join the walkway. The Elevator is free! We rode down and back up to see the under structure. The view is amazing, the history boards are interesting. The weather made it quiet and more impressive. Take a stroll!

Nice walk over the Hudson, There's even water dishes for dogs and benches if you want to sit and watch the boats.

I heard lots of good things about the walkway and wanted to go, but had been reluctant to do it mainly due to a fear of heights. Gave it a go and it was pretty neat. Rode the bike from Hopewell Junction (nice path) and got off to walk across. It was wider than I thought and had pretty high fencing, at least most of the way. Views are stunning from the walkway. There were some small concessions for water and snacks, nice to have. It was a bit more crowded than I expected, but not to the point where it was an issue. Worthwhile to do the walkway...even if you have some fear of heights!

This us the best free attraction in the area. Great views of the Hudson River and rail lines. They even have a pet water in station at the midway point. About 1.5 miles each way but worth the Walk, bicycle ride, or run.

Not for those afraid of heights. Cross the Hudson River in Poughkeepsie, along an old one-and-a-quarter mile railroad bridge, more than 200 feet above the water. Part of a 13-mile rail trail, connecting to other trails. Parking on the west side of the river close to the bridge. An elevator on the east side, sometimes open, sometimes not. East side parking is a farther walk from the bridge. Restaurants along the river on the east side, near the elevator. Food and souvenir carts on both sides of bridges when I visited in mid-summer. Great views up and down the river. Can get crowded at peak times.

always heard about this walkway and finally got the chance to visit. A great walk over if you’re not scared of heights. You can enter at the beginning in Poughkeepsie via the parking lot or via the elevator by the waterfront. Great views. Not crowded. Very casual for a nice stroll.

A state park and part of the Rails-to-Trails program, an abandoned and damaged railroad bridge have been converted to a pedestrian walkway over the Hudson River.

The walk is relaxing and scenic. It is relatively flat and easy to walk; from one side to the other and back runs about 2.5 miles. There are restrooms and a fe small snack stands on the Highland side of the walkway.

This two-kilometre long footbridge is one of the longest crossings of a waterway in the world. It is 65 m high and I find it “taking some getting used to” with the transparent railing. I'm a little afraid of heights and I walked in the middle of the bridge. Since the cyclists were also riding in the middle, I had to be careful. The Hudson is wider than visible from the shore. The elevator at the bridge is surrounded with lots of glass.

We arrived on a Sunday before lunch. Lots of activities, walks for charities, bike riders, folks walking their pets, runners, old and young alike. Most folks paying attention to give space for everyone except for some speed bikers. Thought this could be dangerous as some elderly folks were walking with canes. Probably a weekday better to avoid aggressive bikers.

We were passing through the area on a road trip of NY state, and enjoyed a couple of hours walking along the rail trail and over the bridge, which gave fantastic views over the river. There was a very nice atmosphere, with a lot of local people enjoying a walk, run or toddle over the bridge. it was a hot day but there was a nice truck selling cold drinks at the end of the bridge

Beautiful view from the bridges esp during fall foliage. The loop was cool for the music but didn’t think it as worth it cause you had to walk through the town to get to walking bridge. Town was not desirable. Would’ve preferred to do the hiking trail near the bridge.

Early October 0 right before trees changed. Easy to get to on the eastern side. Simple - walk at own lace. Nice restrooms. We rented the bikes and that was a must, although the work is just as well. Note - you don't pay fo parking on the East side if you park in the DIRT lot.

We did the complete loop via the Henry Hudson Bridge. It was an excellent day with clear views. The walkway is clean and there was plenty of parking and the $5 fee for parkng is reasonable. The only thing I would suggest is when you cross the bridge and want to do the loop, there should be some clear signs to loop back.. We went straight as we didn't see any visible signs for the loop back via the bridge.

If you are in the Poughkeepie area then be sure to take a walk or bike ride on this bridge. It is well worth it for the great views! You can see the FDR and Vanderbilt mansions to the north and great views of the Hudson Valley.

Visited twice in June and July. Easily accessible family and pet friendly, water provided for dogs along with temperature of walkway to avoid burning paws. Also provide a free tram for persons who may not be able to do the entire walk. Scenic views of the Hudson are breathtaking, the walkway does get breezy and can get hot so pack water. There are stands on either side as well as restrooms, worth a visit!

My wife and I visited the Walkway over the Hudson in April 2024. We parked in a small paid parking lot on Parker Street on the Poughkeepsie side. The parking cost was $7. My wife walked with me to the beginning of the river then turned around. I walked the entire walkway and crossed the river to the Highland side. The views of the Mid-Hudson Bridge, the Hudson River, Poughkeepsie and the scenery were awesome with many photo ops. On both sides there was an information area and a rest area with tables. The walk took me 30 minutes each way. It was a great experience.

Old train tracks turned into a walking bridge! Flat, wide, clean and safe. Can be windy as it's high above the Hudson river. Parking lot needs a huge overhaul as the dirt, holes and rocks can be dangerous to low to the ground cars.

This has to be one of the nicest free locations we have visited. Everything is first-rate. Lots of people were walking or cycling, so it felt quite safe. There are ambassadors along the span to give information. There was a very clean, modern restroom at one end and a port-a-potty at the elevator - not sure about the other end. Very scenic and thoroughly enjoyable.

What a nice do-over for a defunct rail bridge. It was well built, kept clean and provided spots for great views. Food trucks on either end are a pleasant treat. Also rest room facilities are available.

Beautiful day in poughkeepsie. Bridge and area was very well kept and nice environment. Nice vibe and scenery. Restauraunts, childrens museaum, free admission to the bridge.

We were in Beacon/Newburgh for a family wedding and were looking for a day trip. The Walkway Over the Hudson was about 30-minutes away and the prospect of being able to hike across the Hudson and to have a view from above the middle of the river was appealing. It did not disappoint.

We arrived late afternoon and temperatures were about 29C/84F with overcast yet that was a relief from the 32C+/90F+ and blazing Sun of the previous 2 days. We parked near the Washington St. access and hiked out and back. It was still hot and we took our time and stopped to read the various plaques along the way. The pathway is broad and made from concrete sections that were made offsite and placed on the old bridge structure. It's definitely more than just an old trestle with the rails and railway ties removed. There is ample room for couples to pass going in both directions and still have room for bicycles going in both directions.

Round trip across and back took about an hour. We looked at the elevator but decided to forego taking the trip. We very much enjoyed the view from the center of the span and enjoyed our stroll.

This is a must do!! We walked from the east to the west on a mild fall day. Sites are fantastic. Scenic panoramic views from all points.

Great for an easy, flat, paved walk across the Hudson. Old railroad bridge converted into a pedestrian walkway where you can ride your bike, walk your dog. Safe for children. Offers nice views of the Hudson on both sides. Parts of the walkway are subject to cross winds, so dress appropriately in the Winter. Clean restrooms and unpabed parking lot. Oldest cantalever bridge in the world. Impressive.

The view is breathtaking. The exercise is beneficial. It is well worth a visit. Try it once, you’ll be hooked!

Every time I visit POK on business I try to get my co-workers to do the Walkway. Clears the head after days meeting, gets you a little exercise (3 miles) and beautiful views. Lolita's under the POK end is a great choice for a drink and a bite...

This was a glorious experience on a sunny Autumn afternoon after viewing the Roosevelt estate...and such a wonderful project supported by Rails to Trails. Well worth the effort to find it and we recommend walking from the East side to the West (Poughkeepsie). One can truly appreciate the grandeur of the Hudson River and its historical significance.

I must agree with one poster who mentioned that certain areas of Poughkeepsie were sketchy; particularly to the trail by the the train station. We couldn't find how to get on the bridge as there were no signs. However, when we eventually did find the bridge, the views were simply breathtaking! It was a perfect day to spend a Saturday afternoon away from the city. Just take the train from Grand Central Station. The train ride is at least 2 hours and 30 minutes. The walk to the Hudson bridge is at least 15 minutes, but it is worth it! We took so many pictures! My only regret is we didn't stay longer. You can spend a whole day out there! We loved it!

We parked on the Highland side and walked half way across the bridge to where the American flag was flying. The walkway is well maintained and the view of the Hudson river and shoreline are spectacular. There was ample parking and the park itself was clean and well maintained. It is obvious that this walkway is a local gem. I took special note of the statute of Sojourner Truth having first become aware of her background during a recent trip to Providence.

Beautifully renovated bridge over the Hudson with a smooth level concrete surface. Excellent for walking, jogging, bicycling and enjoying the views. Lots of informational signs posted that tell a great story. Definitely recommended.

I went for this little walk over the Hudson with my mom & sister about mid July, and the views did not disappoint. It was a little warm on this day but when you are on the bridge you get a nice cool breeze from the water, which made the walk a lot better. You also get the view of an active train track system, and it just so happen that as we were walking across we were able to see a huge train go by. Something to note is that there are also bikers that use this walk way as well. So if you want to cross to the other side of the bridge, then just be on the look out for them. The scenery was gorgeous and overall it was a great experience.

The bridge is an old railroad track bed, repurposed with beautiful views of the Hudson River at Poughkeepsie. You need to park on Parker Avenue (or nearby streets). Drive north on Parker Ave. off Washington St. Go about a block and look for a very rough stone parking lot on the left. You walk up to the sidewalk and the walkway will be to your left. There is a paved parking lot also, but they charge a fee. Many walkers, in line skaters, and bicyclists use the walkway. It has a VERY LONG and high approach over several city streets before you finally get out over the Hudson River.
There is an elevator available, also restrooms on the Poughkeepsie side. There was a food truck when we visited. It can be windy and cool over the water. There is an American flag marking the midway point of the bridge. The views are really great!

Our school took its elementary kids to the walkway. Great experience and kids loved it. They were told about the Hudson River, the railroad, and saw some barges in the water and what they do as well.

The walk can be for fitness or pleasure. Great for out of town guests or local entertainment.. come for the view..come back again and again

Fantastic bike path over the Hudson River! Excellent for beginners and advanced riders.

Beautiful views of the river.

very interesting history of the Hudson river...great people taking care of the bridge, a lot of pride...we talked to the people on each end of the bridge as well as some workers who had great information about the river and it's fish...very cool

Great trails for biking and walking. We went on a day with light rain. My husband and my son had their rain jackets and enjoyed biking on the loop trail with both bridges. I had an umbrella and walked. Great views from the bridge and the elevator. Walking along the river was also fun. We'll go back and do it again.

Absolutely beautiful views. I remember when it was just old rusted train tracks. They did an amazing job turning it into such a beautiful experience. Definitely going back in the fall to see the leaves changing.

My wife and I enjoyed our day out visiting Poughkeepsie and the Walkway Over the Hudson. On a bright sunny day the view of the Hudson is quite spectacular. There are great vistas in all directions. The bridge over the Hudson is quite long and affords lots of exercise to walk the whole way. There are benches occasionally provided if you would like a rest with a great view.
Good for kids and dogs as well.

I have been there many times and it always was a good visit. The views are spectacular. You can stroll or walk at a clip, your choice. On nice weekends it can get busy and bike riders can be an issue. Butthe bridge is wide and there is space. I also like the plaques that tell about the bridge, history and nature of the area. Go and you will not be disappointed!

There is parking, bathrooms that are clean and open, and the mile long bridge across the Hudson has not many people on the rainy day we visited. It’s a stunning state park with this user friendly bridge that has information about the bridge spaced out along the walkway. Very well kept up, and quite a beautiful feat to make this walkable bridge for pedestrians with no automobile traffic to distract.

We walked across so we could stop and appreciate the view. A lot of bicyclists so pay attention! If you are in the area it is well worth a side trip. Expect to spend about one hour to walk the bridge.

We made a point of staying in Poughkeepsie to walk across the River and complete our appreciation of the Hudson Valley area. It was a bit cold and windy but well worth the experience. Getting to and from by Uber was a bit confusing since the driver got lost???? Anyway, a good finale to our Hudson Valley experience.

I absolutely recommend if you are in the Poughkeepsie area.Beautiful views, friendly people, and a glass elevator for those who may have trouble walking up the stairs.It was a chilly autumn day for us Floridians.However, the beautiful changing colors of the leaves and the wonderful maps on the bridge, letting us know what we were looking at, made this a delightful day!I would definitely do this again if I ever have the opportunity to go back to Poughkeepsie

iI rode the trail that the bridge is on from New Platz to Poughkeepsie . Its a great trail well maintained with places of intrest along the way . If you need to hire a bike i cant recomend Leisure Ride Bike Rentals Poughkeepsie enough allthough i didnt hire a bike my riding partner had an isue with his bike whilst out on ther trail we poped in just to see if they could help , they diagnosed the problem supplyed a small part installed it to get us back on the road and dident even charge us they really were life savers as we were a long way from our destination and the bridge which we had to cross closes at night which would have put a lot more miles on an already long ride

A great time visiting the Walkway as part of Mayfest. Clean bathrooms on Highland side, friendly visitor center staff, and there's an NPS stamp available in the office as well as brochures. Views are amazing.

Do this walk. Wide bridge over the Hudson. Easy parking on either side of bridge. Its free. Easy way to kill an hour. Great photo opportunity.

The rode our bikes over this bridge over the Hudson last week. It was pretty cool and had fun. There is a great view . It is a short easy ride there and back. You can extend the trip by continuing the bike up further. The area around the Poughkeepsie side seemed pretty run down but they had a nice paid parking lot which seemed safe.

I have been to the Walkway across the Hudson multiple times and every time, it is worth the 1 1/2 hour drive it takes to get there. Since the walkway spans the Hudson River, it can be accessed from the Highlands side or the Poughkeepsie side. I have been to both, I prefer the Highlands side.

Once on the bridge you are treated to views of the river that are truly a wonder to see. It is a very busy place. People are walking, jogging, walking their dogs, and biking. Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves. There is a very nice rest room at the beginning of the Highland side and a nice courtyard with 2 food trucks. About 3/4 of the way across is an elevator which takes you down to the riverside. A very short walk will take you to the Ice House where we always have lunch. All in all, it is a road trip worth taking.

Very nice place to view Hudson River and you can go about as far as you would like in either direction, because the bridge path connects to rail trails on both sides of the river. I have one problem with it however. It shouldn't have cost more than a few million dollars to make this walkway, since the railroad bridge was already there and only required installation of pre-formed concrete slabs. Somebody bilked the State out of a LOT of money on this (cost was cited as around 36 million dollars!; you could build several miles of four-lane interstate highway through bare ground for that price!)

Great views from a high bike / pedestrian walkway over the Hudson. Parking on the east side of the river was a challenge but well worth it. Bathrooms, gift shop and a couple food vendors at start of bridge. Highly recommend.

On the Poughkeepsie side, there is an elevator that takes you to the roadway on the bridge. The most convenient place to park is at the Poughkeepsie train station. The cost is $3.75 for 16 hours.

The view of the Hudson from the bridge is quite impressive both on the north and south sides.

In fairness let me be upfront and say I hated it because I hate being in high man made structures. My partner really enjoyed the views and the experience. She would go again if I wasn’t so cowardly!

After visiting the FDR home and museum, and having lunch at the Culinary Institute of America, we went to the Walkway Over the Hudson. All were just minutes from each other. My daughter and I couldn't make it all the way over the bridge (next time!), but we got beautiful photos of the Hudson River. We also got to see a long CSX train travel along the tracks that hug the water. There were many people walking the bridge...some had strollers, many had pets. It was fun. There was a truck at the entrance of the bridge selling cider donuts and kettle corn. The bathrooms there were clean also. One suggestion....bring a jacket, gloves and hat. It actually started to snow when we were there. Will definitely go back.

Samantha Brown's PBS show "Places to Love" featured the walkway on a show about Poughkeepsie. Glad we found this fun thing to do. It was a drizzly day so not at all crowded. $7 to park, otherwise free. Clean restrooms there as well. Also a few great places to eat afterwards, but that's another review! It is a long walk but very pretty and you can always turn around.

The walkway is nice, with good views, but very windy in springtime, Poughkeepsie is a little poor this time, many shops & restaurants where still closed.

A walk of a mile each way across the Hudson is good exercise with gorgeous scenery.The views of river ,the town of Poughkeepsie and the foliage .

What an absolute treasure this is! A beautiful way to spend an evening. The setting is spectacular. Families, couples on dates, groups of friends, young & old, lots of dogs. People with telescopes. All peacefully sharing this awesomely beautiful setting. Wish we lived closer, we’d be there all the time!

I was surprised how high up you are. This is sometimes a problem for me as I am acrophobic. But the bridge is wide enough and sturdy enough that it doesn't move, so I felt secure enough to walk out over the river. I got some great pictures up there. The volunteers are wonderful. They seem to delight in supplying all kinds of information about the bridge and the area. It was raining and foggy today, so visibility was a bit limited. We decided to return on a sunny day. The view they say is fantastic! It'sa nice walk and a beautiful area. I recommend it.

Great views from atop this pedestrian bridge. Wider than expected since it had been a railway bridge. Very clean. Worth a walk!

Stunning views of the Hudson River on this former railroad bridge. Many explanatory signs on the bridge. Snacks available at both sides. Walkable from the train station and parking available nearby.

A great walk with beautiful views! It is a smooth path and makes for a very doable walk. We started in Highland, looped around in Poughkeepsie and returned to Highland. Was hoping there were more shops/local stores upon finishing in Poughkeepsie. I'm sure it's a great walk all year but really nice in the fall to be so elevated and see the leaves changing color. Feels safe with high enough guard rails. Bathroom available in the pavilion on Highland side, didn't see one on the other side. The photo signs along the way have some interesting history. Watch out for the cyclists in the middle lane!

The walkway provides nice views of the Hudson and surrounding area. Definitely worth a visit if you're in the area.

Went on a Sunday and took the elevator up as I had a knee injury. Was a beautiful view, but was windy up there! Benches along the way for people who need a rest. Keep in mind if you do use elevator, it closes 90 minutes before dusk.

Very clean facilities. Beautiful scenery even on our walk in the rain. Perfect for all ages and walking, jogging, or biking. Easy and affordable parking as well.

Great walk though quite windy up there. It was a bright, sunny day with many other walkers. Be aware of bikers speeding by.

Great walking trail, the bridge itself is 1.28 miles long. Very dog friendly. We walked to the middle at flagpole, there are places to sit and rest.

We walked and stopped to admire the view...walked some more...stopped again- repeat. Taking photos to remember the day together and the experience. Mom enjoyed it and could see from her wheelchair

Beautiful walk across the Hudson. Park on the Poughkeepsie side and stop at the Blue Collar Brewery afterwards for a taste of well crafted beer.

A “must do” if in the area. An easy walk or run with of stunning views of the river and surrounding area. History explained via placards incorporated into the walkway. Well maintained with nice landscaping. Plenty of parking available.

Very enjoyable visit. Plenty of parking at the trail head on Parker St. There wasn’t a lot of traffic on the day we walked. Once you get over the river, there are plenty of vantage points for photos.

Had a beautiful walk all the way across!!! The new welcoming center on the Highland said de is REALLY nice!!!

Such a different vantage point to look at the Hudson and all its surroundings. Great exercise and great vantage point for photos.

A former railroad bridge has been converted into the world's longest elevated pedestrian bridge (1.28 miles long and 212 feet above the river). You can access the bridge from either the Highland or Poughkeepsie side. To cut down some of the walk, there is an elevator from a riverside parking lot on the Poughkeepsie side. The railroad bridge opened in 1889. Tracks destroyed by fire in 1974. Rebuilt and reopened as a pedestrian bridge in 2009. Awesome panoramic views of the Hudson River Valley.

Came here after hours on Memorial day for the flag ceremony with illumination candles. It was well run and managed by staff and volunteers. Glad to live near this treasure.

Taking the 1.3ish mile walk across the Hudson River is a great way to experience the outdoors. You can also bike or run across the bridge. The views are scenic from multiple river vantage points, especially on a sunny day in the mid autumn before all the leaves have fallen.The facilities are very clean and up to date (bathrooms). Open 7 a.m. - Sunset (and they close it down at sunset).

Started on the east side. Elevator was not working. So had to walk uphill for 1 mile to the start. Very nice walk. 200 feet above the river. Great views. Walked to eastern end. There were toilets, water fountain and some good trucks. Walked back and found the elevator had started, so took it down

The 2.4 miles round trip across Hudson River has a great view and exercise. Be sure to take the glass elevator down and up for a great view. Bring a bike if you don’t want to walk. The trail extends for miles on both sides. Go on weekend to get ice cream on the Highland side

This is a perfect activity to do as a couple or with kids. The bridge, which is not for cars, is a great way to get outside and enjoy some clean air. It is free and the signs for parking are easy to find.

I had seen photos of the bridge for a few years and there was always a tug to walk it if in the area. We needed an easy road trip and settled on this and some historic stops in the Hudson Valley. We are seniors and needed a reason to do more walking so the planets were aligned. We did the round-trip over and back, gate to gate, and enjoyed it very much. Skies were clear and sunny with occasional light breeze. Temperature was pleasant so shorts and T-shirt were fine. It was not super busy on a week-day mid-morning so we took our time, grabbed some photos and enjoyed being over the water. I hadn't realized how much of the bridge ran over town areas but it was a nice change of scenery and allowed to get a little flavor of the area. Take it at your own pace and spend as much time as you want. Our time in town was limited but this adventure was a worthy excursion with easy free parking. Highly recommended.

Being along the Hudson River, we were happy to find this extraordinary walking experience...a former railroad bridge turned into a pedestrian bridge. It's 1.25 miles across. And it is high! Over 200 feet above the Hudson River. We parked on the Poughkeepsie side in a dedicated parking lot, with self-serve parking for a reasonable hourly fee. As we approached the bridge, we saw a food truck and a concession stand. There are restrooms on either end of the bridge. As we strolled across the bridge, we encountered others on foot as well as those jogging, on bicycles, on skateboards, and on rollerblades. Dogs are allowed. Fencing above the rails extends over land, but once you are over water, no fencing. That was unsettling for me; I walked dead center both ways, although it was easier on the return trip. Placards noting the history of the bridge are placed at intervals across the bridge. The views are worth the crossing.

Gorgeous views of the Hudson River, it’s particularly beautiful in Autumn.
It can get a little busy depending on when you go.

A very nice bridge to walk over and get a great view of the Hudson River. Plan for 1-2 hours and get your cameras ready.

I love everything about the walkway. It is a great place to walk or bike. The history is fascinating,

Not usually a word I'd use for a bridge/walkway, but what an AWESOME idea to make use of an old railroad bridge no longer in use!!!!! Also to walk over the Hudson River was great too!! Well maintained and the views are 'stunning', esp. at sunset!! A must see!!

I was interested in attemoting to use a wheelchair to wheel my mother over the bridge. I called and they assured me they would help. I arrived at the elevator area and they found a wheelchair for her to use and were very friendly to my questions. We enjoyed the walk across and it seems quite clean and well kept. The most important compliment i can say is it is very safe looking. The views were spectacular !!

A 2.5 mile each way walk over the Hudson River with amazing views; and a glimpse of the West Point Military Academy. For the more adventurous follow either the biking or hiking trails. It has recently undergone renovations so it looks more beautiful than ever. It is now pet friendly with water stations for both pets and humans; it also features a new Visitor’s Welcome Center. Free parking is available. Stay late enough and you will be rewarded with a gorgeous sunset.

My son and I rode our bikes from Poughkeepsie, NY across the walkway bridge to Highland, NY. Easy ride, slightly up hill to the center of the river then slightly down hill from the center into Highland.
The bridge was built in the late 1880s as a rail bridge for both freight and passengers with two tracks going in opposite directions. It was converted to a park to be used by pedestrians and bicyclists (and roller skaters, dog walkers... so it's wide enough for many pedestrians and cyclists to pass side by side.) As we approached the west side of the Hudson, there was a southbound freight train with 4 diesel locomotives pulling many tens of cars that we were able to see cross almost 200 ft below us.
Once across the bridge, we turned south into the trail parking lot and to where the Mid Hudson Bridge for Routes 44/55 crosses back to Poughkeepsie. The walking/riding lane of that bridge is very narrow so you need to be careful of riders/walkers coming from the other direction. When we reached the mid span, we saw a large barge being pushed by a tug coming up the river and watched it pass about 100 ft below us as it continued north up the river. As soon as we reached the other end, we took a sharp left turn northward and down toward the river edge. Nice park spaces are along the way. This includes a skate park, pavilions and green fields. We continued north on the path until we were directly under the walkway bridge. There's an elevator there that runs up the supporting tower to the walkway bridge surface, so we ascended it and then rode back to the car where we had parked. It was a quick 6 or so miles but fun.
I recommend it if you have an hour or two to spend. If on foot plan to spend a few hours.
I recommend doing this in the fall when the tree colors are at their peak. Bring a jacket since the wind can rip down the Hudson valley.
Quick fact: The Hudson River is tidal all the way to Troy, NY (a few miles north of Albany) so as New York Harbor tides goes from low to high, the Hudson has a northward flow. That means that south of Troy, NY, the Hudson is an estuary, not a river. You can easily see this in winter when the ice actually moves up the river.

Incredible views of the Hudson River any time of the day and every season. Love the fresh air, calming of the water. Have walked the mile plus over the bridge and biked over it. Wide paths, connects to 50 miles of rail trails. one of my favorite places in the Hudson Valley !

I recently experienced the Walk Over the Hudson independent tour, and it was a fantastic way to explore this stunning site. The tour allows you to stroll along the longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world, offering breathtaking views of the Hudson River and surrounding landscape. The bridge itself is beautifully maintained, with plenty of spots to stop and take photos or simply enjoy the scenery. On the other side the surrounding park areas are also lovely, perfect for a picnic or a leisurely walk after crossing the bridge.

Although we live some 70 miles away in NJ, we've been to the Hudson River walkway a number of times. Helping on this particular visit was perfect weather, sunny 75. The views from the bridge are stunning, especially the autumn season when the hillside trees are at the peak of their color.

The walkway is wide enough to accommodate a pedestrian "lane" in each direction and a bicycle lane in the middle. Perfect, unobstructed views in every direction. The only thing bad that can be said relates to the less than ideal parking - at least on the eastern shore. There's a nice lot a few blocks (north) away, but no signage to tell you that.

The round trip walk is a little over 2 miles. If you're looking for a longer walk, you can do a loop going south to the vehicle bridge and back up the other shore.

The walk was so much fun, kids enjoyed looking down at the water. A little windy that day, but was fund anyway.

Great views of the Hudson. You can walk/bike/run from New Paltz, across the Walkway, and down to Hopewell Junction, geocaching along the way!

We've been out here multiple times. Spectacular view, lots of activity on the bridge and underneath.

Great place to see fall foliage. We had a beautiful day. Park lot is a unfinished so be mindful if you have trouble ambulating.

Our visit to the walkway was an impulse stop after seeing it listed under 'attractions' on a highway sign on the Taconic. The park was easy to access from the Taconic, a relatively quick 8 mile, mostly direct ride.The views from the middle of the bridge, both upriver and looking the other way at the Mid-Hudson Bridge, were fun to see and the walk on the walkway was an easy stride. It is also wheelchair accessible. It's heartening to see the old train trestle converted into a hiking path rather than torn down and discarded as scrap metal.

Walk, jog, bike, roller blade 1.26 miles across the Hudson River, 200+ feet above the water. The structure is the longest, elevated pedestrian bridge in the world.
A great place to spend some outdoor time.
And even flush toilets at both ends of the walkway

We walked across the bridge. A little hot. Small breeze very doable plenty of people something everyone should experience.

Very nice walk, views are beautiful! It gets windy though, so if it's chilly dress warm! You can ride your bike and bring your dog! No garbage cans on the walkway though, so if you have to scoop the poop you need to carry it to the end. They have bathrooms and in the warm weather there are tables to eat at usually they sell some food and drinks too well in the warm weather. parking on either side of the walkway.

Take time to walk across The Hudson if you’re in the area. It’s not difficult and a beautiful sight. I believe round trip is 3 miles. The bridge is well paved and does close in bad weather. We did it on a fall day and enjoyed the surrounding sites. Weekends are more crowded.

Walk, run, roller skate, ride your bike--any way you choose, there are awesome views of the Hudson River from 212' above it. There are bathrooms, snacks and souvenirs. You can walk as much or as little as you want. There are some benches so you can relax and just enjoy the view. You can bring your leashed dog, too!

This is a great way for scenic lovers and exercise lovers to take in some exercise and amazing views. You can walk, jog, bike ride, it's all up to you.
It's a bit of a walk with no signs that lead you anywhere, is my only complaint. It is a bit of a walk to get there, but once there, it's worth it. Perfect for this time of year to view the fall foliage .
Rest stops are around, as well.
I definitely recommend, and will be back. 😎

The time is here to come and watch Mother Nature’s Color show at its best. Yes, you can bring your bike and ride it across the walkway

You have to go here if you're in the area. This is why I use TripAdvisor to find experiences like this. Not sure if I would have thought of going here without it... didn't know it existed even.

There is lots of parking paid and free on the Poughkeepsie side. The free lot though has very large rocks in it and I was scared about parking here as I have a low clearance car. I had to be very cautious and if it wasn't for the cars pulling in behind me I would have backed out and gladly used the pay lot.

The walkway itself is very high. I have to admit it was a little freaky at first but at some point I got comfortable and forgot about the height. It took me 30 minutes to completely cross. I went in the morning at 8.45 and there was very little traffic. They have benches at the half way point if you need a rest or just want to look around. There's information plaques on the way that are interesting and a statue for Sojourner Truth on the Highland side. I recommend taking a minute to visit this too, great story.

It was a great experience and some much needed exercise while traveling.

What a wonderful experience!! The walk is about a 1/2 each way and is such a great way to get an overview of both sides of the Hudson. It is clean, has rest benches along the way, and restrooms on each side of the bridge. A lovely way to get in some exercise and enjoy beautiful views.

Great way to spend a couple of hours.
We did 4 miles round trip but this could easily be extended as their are additional trails.
Some good history in regards to the walkways former use and the Hudson River.
Good for families, runners, bikers and hikers...

Loved it . Walking or biking only allowed on the walkway. Beautiful scenery. Easy walk and very enjoyable.

to start off >> if you have a very big fear of highs sorry to say then this maybe not good for you , because its a high walkway bridge that cross's over the Hudson river in up state NY, .. but if you can can handle height's then this will be one good experience to see. any time of the year is nice, but the " Fall " season is the most amazing time , when all the leaves start to change colors in the Fall ,, the view is so amazing. get your camera's and start taking pictures as well as collection some of them beautiful color leave before you get onto the walkway..

This is a fun place. Great views. Very clean area. Nice restrooms on each side of the bridge. Walk, bike, jog, roller blades, etc... all seemed welcome.

What a great idea: convert and restore an old railroad bridge into a public walkway that spans the Hudson River! The height (approx. 160') affords stunning and sometimes, with the ferocious winds, exhilarating views of the Hudson and surrounding area for many miles. Normally open during daylight hours, it provides a wonderful opportunity to get out and experience the beauty of the Hudson River Valley absolutely free.

Great walking bridge. Thought it would be scary, way up so high but it wasn't.
A must do in the morning

Nice for a quick walk across the bridge but u. An always enjoyable and and make it a 4 mile loop across the near by bridge

We took a slight detour to check out the walkway over the river and were glad we did. It was nice to look over the city and if we had more time and it was less windy we would have extended our walk. Worth stopping by if you're in the area!

Made the west to east walk over the Hudson today. Never knew of this destination until our bus excursion from Oneonta made the stop. Lovely day for a colorful adventure that was filled with runners, bicyclists and obviously walkers. Fall scenery from both sides of the Hudson River was remarkable on this day.

This was the perfect Black Friday activity after Thanksgiving dinner. Nice views including the active railway below. We parked on the Poughkeepsie side which had plenty of spaces and a clean restroom area. On the Highland side there was a restroom as well as a food truck offering popcorn, hot pretzels and beverages plus a souvenir T-shirt stand and guides who were happy to discuss the area and its history. There didn't seem to be quite as much parking on that side though.

It's an easy, paved, approximately 1 mile walk across the bridge with benches along the way for those who may choose to stop and sit. Lots of room with pedestrians going in both directions as well as a few rollerblading and biking.

Will definitely return and would recommend this as a very universally friendly outdoor activity. During these COVID-19 times 99% of the people were masked up and respectful of one another.

Love the new pavilion. Pack a snack or lunch go for a ride on bike or walk and then take a break at the pavilion. Beautiful new bathrooms with changing area for babies. Always clean. Refresh your water bottle at the fountain.