Page 34 - Dutchess Tourism 2023

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DUTCHESS COUNTY DESTINATION GUIDE
The Great Outdoors
With more than 75 trail systems and nearly 200 parks, nature is easily accessible in every corner of Dutchess.
Hiking
Dutchess is home to incredible hiking. To skip the crowds, visit some of our hidden-gem hikes. Ascend to the highest point in Dutchess, Brace Mountain in Millerton, or discover woodland sculptures and protected wetlands at Vlei Marsh Trail in Rhinebeck. An area of diverse habitats, Buttercup Farm Audubon Sanctuary in Stanfordville includes six miles of trails, and on a spring day, it’s possible to see over 80 species of birds. In Red Hook, take man’s best friend for a walk (leashed) at Poets’ Walk Park.
Named one of the 15 Best Trails in the U.S. by Travel
+ Leisure, The William R. Steinhaus Dutchess Rail Trail, which connects to the Maybrook Trailway in Hopewell Junction, is part of the 750-mile Empire State Trail. With its continuously paved and mostly flat path, it is fun for all ages.
Hike to the top of Stissing Mountain in Pine Plains and climb the fire tower’s stairs up 90 more feet for views of five surrounding states (Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, Pennsylvania and New Jersey) and as far north as Albany
in New York. Sitting at over 1,500 feet above sea level,
the summit at Mount Beacon provides gorgeous views
of Beacon, the Hudson River and the Newburgh-Beacon
Bridge. Continue hiking another mile to the top of the fire tower and see
both New York City and Albany on a clear day. Dutchess’ third
fire tower is in the Ferncliff Forest Game Refuge and Forest Preserve (cover photo).
The world-famous Appalachian Trail traverses
eastern Dutchess County, crossing through Pawling (where it
has a designated Metro-North station) before heading east toward Connecticut. Don’t miss the massive, 300-plus-year- old Dover Oak, the largest oak tree on the trail.
On page 39, learn more about Zen Finder, our check-in challenge where you can win prizes.
Recreation
Right off the Taconic State Parkway in Pleasant Valley, James Baird State Park has multiple areas for sports activities, including pickleball, and seven miles of scenic wooded trails. When there’s snow, enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. At the turtle-themed playground, children
can learn about the local species. Tymor Park in Union
Vale is the largest municipal park in the state, with trails for mountain biking and hiking, an equestrian center, disc golf, an outdoor pool and more. Bowdoin Park in Poughkeepsie has a playground and water spray park, a nationally recognized cross-country racecourse and five pavilions for outdoor entertaining.
If sleeping under the stars is your thing, Malouf’s Mountain Campground in Beacon is perfect for the camper with no gear and no car—they can supply everything needed for an easy getaway. The Rudd Pond area at Taconic State Park boasts 15 tent sites and 26 tent platform sites with views of the Taconic Mountain Range, pond and nearby countryside, where countless activities will keep you busy during your stay.
© KENNETH MARSTON
Cat Rocks (Appalachian Trail), Pawling