Dutchess

The William R. Steinhaus Dutchess Rail Trail is a wide, smooth, paved trail that runs from Hopewell Junction, NY to the Walkway Over the Hudson bridge. The distance is about 13 miles. I rode the trail most recently in October of 2021 and found it very enjoyable. It was mostly shaded. There were mile markers every half mile and port-a-potties spaced sufficiently close. It was busy with walkers, runners and cyclists but it was also Sunday afternoon.

I parked at a cul-de-sac just off route 82. The location was 41.58367, -73.80308. I rode under route 82 and immediately found the "official" trailhead here 41.58529, -73.80660. It was a pleasant ride with few road crossings and nearly flat. The only hills were overpass ramps. I crossed the Walkway Over the Hudson bridge then turned around for the return. The far side of the bridge continues on the Hudson Valley Trail if you are looking for a longer ride.

If you plan on crossing the Walkway Over the Hudson be sure to allow plenty of time. The walkway is always crowed and there will be families with children. A few minutes of your time will keep everyone safe.

The trail along with the walkway and the Hudson Valley Trail are part of the Rail-Trail Hall of Fame and are a portion of the longer Empire State Trail.