5 Best Hiking Trails Cold Spring NY

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Introduction: Hiking Trails Cold Spring NY

You will enjoy your visit to the hiking trails Cold Spring NY offers. An easy hour from NY City, Cold Spring has fun trails nearby.

For more information about the best hiking trails in Cold Spring NY, look at AllTrails. The premium app has lots of useful hiking information and features.

Cold Spring is an easy, short train trip from the city.

Cold Spring Early History

You will love Cold Spring, a charming village located in Putnam County, New York. The area around Cold Spring was originally inhabited by a group of Native American tribes.

These people lived in the region for centuries before European settlers arrived. They had a rich culture and lifestyle that revolved around fishing, hunting, farming, and trading.

Dutch and English colonists gradually encroached upon their lands. The encroachment lead to conflicts and displacement. Epidemics brought by the Europeans also decimated the native population.

By the early 18th century, the people in the region had been largely displaced or assimilated into European American society.

The first Dutch and English settlers arrived in the late 17th century and established farms and small settlements along the Hudson River. The early settlers took advantage of the fertile land and the river’s strategic location for trade.

Cold Spring itself was established as a settlement in 1818. It was named after a cold spring located in the vicinity. The spring was valued by the early settlers as a source of fresh water.

Modern Cold Spring

The village grew rapidly during the 19th century. Growth was fueled by the construction of the Hudson River Railroad. The railroad brought an influx of visitors and commerce.

In its early years, Cold Spring had a thriving economy centered around businesses such as ironworks, foundries, and textile mills. The village became known for making goods such as cannons, stoves, and train parts.

In modern times, Cold Spring has evolved into a vibrant tourist destination. The village is known for its picturesque Main Street, lined with historic buildings, quaint shops, and cozy restaurants.

Today, the main businesses in Cold Spring include boutique shops, art galleries, antique stores, cafes, and restaurants. The village kept its historic charm while offering visitors a variety of modern comforts.

Where To Stay And Eat In Cold Spring

If you want to stay in or near Cold Spring, you have several excellent choices. The village has charming bed and breakfasts, inns, and guesthouses that provide cozy lodgings with a touch of historic feeling.

Check some of these best places to stay in Cold Spring:

When it comes to dining, Cold Spring has a range of options to suit different tastes. The village restaurants, offer diverse cuisines such as American, Italian, Mexican, and more. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed dining experience with picturesque views of the Hudson River.

According to Tripadvisor the top three restaurants for local food are:

  1. Hudson Hil’s
  2. Hudson House
  3. Riverview Restaurant

In summary, Cold Spring, NY has a rich history that includes the indigenous people who once inhabited the area. The history includes European settlement, and industrial development.

Today, it has transformed into a charming village known for its historic character, delightful shops and restaurants, and access to natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or simply relaxing in a picturesque setting, Cold Spring offers a delightful experience for visitors.

5 Best Hiking Trails Cold Spring NY

One of the highlights of visiting Cold Spring is the opportunity to explore the surrounding natural beauty. The area is known for its scenic hiking trails, offering breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the surrounding mountains.

Popular hiking destinations near Cold Spring include hikes in two nearby state parks. The Hudson Highlands State Park (HHSP) and the Clarence Fahnestock State Park (CFSP) have some great hikes!

The HHSP has more than 8,00 acres and 70 miles of hiking trails. With more than 14,000 acres, the CFSP also has great trails. These hikes provide both a physical challenge and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning Hudson Valley landscape.

5 of the best hiking trails in Cold Spring NY that you will find in the two parks include:

Anthony’s Nose: Description: Hiking Trails Cold Spring NY

With a quick elevation gain, you will have a good, short workout. Be ready for a rocky trail but no rock scrambles. Enjoy a great view when you reach the top!

Hiking Trails Cold Spring NY
(Credit: Lsaper, CC BY-SA 3.0,
via Wikimedia Commons)

Things To Know

  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Trail type: Out & back
  • Distance: 2.0 miles
  • Elevation gain: 688 feet
  • Dogs: On leash

Appalachian Trail Via Iron Mine Loop: Description

This hike has a lot to offer including water crossings, cool green forest, boulder fields, and pretty lake views. It can be buggy in the spring and summer so take your bug spray.

Things To Know

  • Difficulty: Modest
  • Trail type: Loop
  • Distance: 5.3 miles
  • Elevation gain: 508 feet
  • Dogs: On leash

Bull Hill Full Loop: Description

The trail has new blazes that help you stay on the trail. Get ready for for a steep incline at first that levels off.

You will love the bueautiful, mountain, water, and forest views. Take your hiking poles to help you balance on the rocky trail. Wear your bug spray too!

Things To Know

Hiking Trails Cold Spring NY
(Credit: ScubaBear68, CC BY 2.0,
via Wikimedia Commons)
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Trail type: Loop
  • Distance: 5.4 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 1,391 feet
  • Dogs: On leash

Cornish Estate Trail: Description

The Cornish’s were a wealthy couple who moved to Cold Spring to escape NY City. Tragically, they died within 2 weeks of one another. Take this easy hike to explore the ruins of their mansion.

Hiking Trails Cold Spring NY
(Credit: Butohbaby, CC BY-SA 4.0,
via Wikimedia Commons)

Things To Know

  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Trail type: Out & back
  • Distance: 1.8 miles
  • Elevation gain: 190 feet
  • Dogs: On leash

East Mountain And Round Hill Loop: Description: Hiking Trails Cold Spring NY

Forest, water, and mountain views, you get all of them when you hike the East Mountain and Round Hill Loop Trail.

Things To Know

  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Trail type: Loop
  • Distance: 7.3 miles
  • Elevation gain: 1,374 feet
  • Dogs: On leash

Summary: Hiking Trails Cold Spring NY

Enjoy a fun get away from the city. An easy train ride or car trip, you will enjoy the nearby trails with Hudson Valley views.

After your hike, the village has a lot to offer. You can find great places to eat and shop. If you want to stay overnight, you can also find many nice places to stay.

For more information about the best hiking trails in Cold Spring NY, look at AllTrails. The premium app has lots of useful hiking information and features.

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