Palisades Interstate Park via the George Washington Bridge

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · River/Creek · Views

The southern-most section of the Long Path (aqua blazes) traces its way through New Jersey's Palisades Park across the Hudson River into New York City. It's the best singletrack hiking you can hope to find that's accessible from New York City without a car. Rolling hills, sweeping views of the Hudson River and the New York City skyline, and water and bathrooms available at the halfway point.

Public transportation is the best way to access the start of this trail. Take the A train to 175 Street or the bus to the George Washington Bridge Bus Station. On-street parking is also available near the start of this trail. A gas station serves as an oasis about 2.5 miles in. The park headquarters marks the turnaround. This building is normally open to the public with decent bathrooms and a water fountain.

Beginning at 175th Street on Manhattan's upper west side, the first 1.5 miles of this hike takes you over the G.W. Bridge and into Palisades Interstate Park. The trail and mileage to various lookouts along the Long Path are well signed. The trail is rolling singletrack, and because this is the east, there are enough rocks to make it interesting in spots. There's not a lot of elevation gain or loss but you have a spots where you should be ready to climb or slow down a bit.

As this is an out-and-back hike on the Long Path, you can easily turn around whenever you would like, making this a great option for a short day hike or a long outing.

Deer, rabbits, and your standard woodland critters. Lots of poison ivy encroaching on the path.