Top 5 Snowshoeing Trails in the Hudson Valley
When the winter season wraps the Hudson Valley in a soft blanket of snow, outdoor adventure enthusiasts have the opportunity to engage in a different kind of hike — snowshoeing.
Some snowshoeing experiences can be easy scenic treks that allow you to take in breathtaking views without worrying about the terrain, while others might be more challenging endeavors that push you to your limits, trying to make your way over slippery ice and through thick snow.
Regardless of the difficulty level you choose, there’s something magical about hiking the snow — surrounded by soft white hills with the ice sparkling in the sunlight and the special kind of quiet atmosphere that only winter snow can create.
(For example, check out our February 2024 snowshoeing expedition to Zealand Falls in the New Hampshire White Mountains.)
To help you plan your next winter adventure, our Another Summit expert team has curated this list of our top 5 snowshoeing trails in the Hudson Valley.
From easy treks for beginners to challenging terrain that rewards you with amazing views, there’s something here for everyone.
Snowshoeing for Beginners: Jordan Pond, Fahnestock State Park
Jordan Pond is a quiet, picturesque destination tucked away in the forest of Fahnestock State Park. The location of this hike provides the perfect opportunity to take a break from the hustle and bustle and admire the beauty of nature.
The first hiking trail on our list is recommended by our outdoor leader Bill Urban. The Jordan Pond hike is a 1.84-mile loop that begins at the Big Woods parking lot just off RTE 301. The hiking trail is relatively flat, with just a little over 200 feet of elevation change over the course of the hike.
When the snow piles up high enough for snowshoeing, the winding trail that’s usually covered with rocks and roots becomes a smooth, easy-to-navigate path that provides an excellent experience for first-time snowshoers.
Pro Tip: You can rent snowshoeing and skiing gear from the Fahnestock State Park Office.
Jordan Pond route on All Trails
WHERE: Big Woods Trailhead Parking Lot
1021 Cold Spring Turnpike, Cold Spring, NY 10516
DIFFICULTY: 🟦 Blue (easy)
Blue hikes are great for beginners, people short on time, or folks with small children. These hikes are usually no more than 2 miles on relatively flat and even terrain, although not always wheelchair accessible.
DISTANCE: 1.84 miles
ELEVATION: 200 feet
Intermediate Snowshoeing: Slide Mountain, Catskills
Slide Mountain is the perfect place to challenge yourself without getting into dangerous territory.
This Catskills hike was recommended by Deputy Director Henri de la Vega for those looking for an intermediate snowshoeing hike. The tallest mountain in the Catskill mountain range, Slide Mountain sits at 4,180 feet above sea level and provides several amazing viewpoints of the incredible winter wilderness.
Much like other summit trails in Catskill Park, this 5.31-mile out-and-back hike involves some steep elevation gain and rugged terrain, with one or two spots that may require scrambling. This can provide an interesting challenge when you’ve strapped on your snowshoes.
Once you’ve made your way to the summit, you’ll find some amazing spaces to take in the snow-packed scenery of the Catskills sprawling out in front of you.
Advanced Snowshoeing: Plateau Mountain, Catskills
Plateau Mountain hiking trail is recommended for experienced snowshoers who are looking for a challenging winter adventure with incredible views as a reward for the effort put into the journey.
Plateau Mountain sits 3,840 feet above sea level and is named for the iconic 2-mile-long tabletop ridge that makes it an unmistakable sight next to the other mountains in the area.
Located on a segment of the Devil’s Path, this 6.3-mile out-and-back trail is incredibly steep. Within the first mile, you gain nearly 2,000 feet of elevation. Once you reach the start of the summit ridge, you’ll be met with a scenic lookout that provides some of the most stunning views the mountain has to offer.
The remaining two miles along the ridgeline are much more level, providing tired hikers with some easier terrain that winds through the dense hemlock spruce forest that covers most of the higher Catskill peaks.
Pro Tip: If you want to summit Plateau Mountain but want a climb that’s not so intense, taking the Waner Creek Train from Notch Inn Road covers the same elevation at greater distance, making the climb to the summit a much more gradual incline.
Where to Go Snowshoeing for Amazing Views: Overlook Mountain, Catskills
Arguably one of the most beautiful experiences in the Catskills, Overlook Mountain is home to one of the Catskill Park’s six fire towers and provides breathtaking views.
Aside from the awe-inspiring 360-degree view from the fire tower lookout, Overlook Mountain also provides a scenic cliff-side viewpoint on its eastern face, which provides a panoramic view of the Hudson River Valley.
Stunning at all times of the year, this 4.4-mile out-and-back hike also serves as a great hike for beginner snowshoers with its wide carriage road-style trail. Gaining around 1,400 feet in two miles, this moderate incline makes this hike a good workout that rewards you with panoramic vistas.
Bonus: On this hike, you’ll also get the chance to see the historic ruins of the Overlook Mountain House, which is an old hotel that burned down in the late 1800s.
Another Summit organizes hikes on Overlook Mountain and to various fire towers in the Catskills. Keep an eye on our calendar for upcoming opportunities to check out these landmarks.
Snowshoeing Near Me: Transit to Trail Hike at Bull Hill, Hudson Highlands
This public transit-accessible experience is right outside of Cold Spring, NY. Nestled in the Hudson Highlands State Park, this trail is a short one-mile walk from the Cold Spring train station, making it a great option for snowshoe enthusiasts living in New York City.
Bull Hill, also known as Mount Taurus, can be seen from Cold Spring’s main street, rising over the tops of houses and shops. Situated at 1,420 feet above sea level, Bull Hill’s peak rises slightly above the surrounding ridgelines and provides several scenic views in the area — including a view of NYC.
There are several routes available for hiking this trail, depending on the time you have to spend in the great outdoors. If you’re up for a solid day’s hike, you can even walk all the way to Beacon.
Join an Another Summit Adventure
Another Summit is an outdoor adventure program created and run by non-profit organization Guardian Revival, designed to support and enhance the mental health and well-being of our guardians (military, veterans, and first responders) and their families, at no cost to them.
Another Summit participants are provided with the ability to experience all of the healing power that mother nature can provide. Our adventures range from easy, peaceful walks in the outdoors to more challenging experiences like backpacking and canoeing, providing epic views of some of the most beautiful scenery in New York State.
Our one-day adventures are open to RSVP (friends & family welcome), and our High & Epic Adventures accept applications!
