Cliffs, river and a path with a view!
Looked like a perfect place to discover on my bike.
Started at Nyack State Beach park and was definitely impressed as I started my ride along the shoreline of the Hudson River.
The first mile to mile and a half was flat with a gravel/dirt path with some parts paved. I was then surprised to start a climb up Hook Mountain.
Once starting up is when you head into a wooded and shaded trail with opportunities for scenic overlooks onto the water as well as various stone artifacts.
I learned there are also alternative hiking routes you can then take to Hike to the plateau. A volunteer group recently created a new zig zag trail made of stones to help get you up there (June 2021). I plan to try that soon.
The road again tapers off to a flat road as you reach the trailhead at Haverstraw. There is room for a few cars in this lot which is free. I chose to bike on spying Harbor cafe about 1/2 mile going through a residential street and construction until you reach the Harbor community with the cafe.
The view of the Mario Cuomo bridge on the way back was lovely even with the hazy, hot and humid day. The trail head at the Nyack State Park offered rest rooms and a vending machine was welcomed at the return.
I likely did about 14 miles in total. As an aside, with an annual Empire State Park pass you can park for free. Otherwise it’s $8 at the Nyack Beach location.
Pivot and Pause in New England 