Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park Guide
Walkway Over the Hudson: A Stroll Above the River Guide
Experience the breathtaking views from the world's longest elevated pedestrian bridge at the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park! Spanning the majestic Hudson River, this iconic landmark offers a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking for a scenic walk, a leisurely bike ride, or simply a place to soak in the beauty of the Hudson Valley, the Walkway Over the Hudson is an unforgettable destination. Prepare to be amazed by the panoramic vistas and the sheer scale of this engineering marvel. Originally built as a railroad bridge in 1889, the Poughkeepsie-Highland Railroad Bridge played a vital role in connecting the eastern and western United States. For decades, it served as a crucial transportation link, carrying freight and passengers across the Hudson River. However, a devastating fire in 1974 rendered the bridge unusable, and it remained abandoned for many years. In the late 1990s, a group of dedicated individuals spearheaded a campaign to transform the bridge into a pedestrian walkway, preserving its historical significance and creating a unique recreational space. After years of planning and construction, the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park opened to the public in 2009. The Walkway Over the Hudson offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Take a leisurely stroll across the bridge, enjoying the stunning views of the Hudson River, the Catskill Mountains, and the surrounding towns. Bring your bike for a scenic ride, or simply relax on one of the benches and soak in the atmosphere. The park also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and educational programs. While there are no specific culinary offerings on the Walkway itself, both Poughkeepsie and Highland, located at either end of the bridge, offer a wide range of dining options.
Transportation
The Walkway Over the Hudson has entrances in both Poughkeepsie and Highland. To reach the Poughkeepsie entrance, you can take the Metro-North Railroad's Hudson Line to the Poughkeepsie station. From the station, it's a short walk to the Walkway entrance. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Poughkeepsie and then transfer to a local bus that stops near the Walkway. To reach the Highland entrance, you can take a bus to Highland and then walk or take a taxi to the Walkway entrance.
Opening Hours
Open daily from 7:00 AM to sunset.
Ticket Price
Free