If you’re looking for a scenic and adventurous hike in the Hudson Valley, you might want to check out the Rosendale Trestle. This impressive structure is a former railroad bridge that spans 940 feet across the Rondout Creek, 150 feet above the ground. It’s part of the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, a 24-mile path that follows the route of the old Wallkill Valley Railroad from Gardiner to Kingston.
The Rosendale Trestle has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 19th century. It was built in 1872 by the Wallkill Valley Railroad to connect New Paltz to Kingston, and at the time, it was the highest span bridge in the United States. The bridge was made of steel and supported by nine stone piers, and it crossed over the Delaware and Hudson Canal, a major transportation route for coal and cement.
The trestle was a vital link for the local economy, especially for the Rosendale cement industry, which produced a high-quality natural cement that was used for many famous landmarks, such as the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, and the U.S. Capitol. The trestle also carried passengers, mail, and freight, and offered spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
However, the trestle also faced some challenges and controversies over the years. It was rebuilt in 1895 by the King Bridge Company to address public concerns about its stability, and it was repeatedly reinforced throughout its existence. It also faced competition from other modes of transportation, such as automobiles and trucks, and suffered from declining revenues and maintenance costs. The Wallkill Valley Railroad ceased operations in 1977, and the trestle was abandoned.
In 1986, the trestle was sold for one dollar to John E. Rahl, a local businessman who tried to turn it into a bungee jumping platform in the 1990s. However, his plans were met with opposition from environmentalists and residents who feared that the activity would damage the bridge and disturb the wildlife. A similar attempt was made in the 2000s by another entrepreneur, but it also failed.
In 2009, the trestle was seized by Ulster County for tax nonpayment, and it was acquired by two nonprofit organizations: the Wallkill Valley Land Trust and the Open Space Institute. They raised funds to renovate the trestle as a pedestrian walkway for the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, which had been extended north from New Paltz to Rosendale in 2009. The renovation project involved installing a new wooden deck and railings, repairing the steel structure, and adding interpretive signs and benches.
The trestle reopened to the public on June 29, 2013, with a grand celebration that attracted hundreds of people. Since then, it has become a popular destination for hikers, bikers, runners, birdwatchers, photographers, and history buffs who want to experience the beauty and history of this remarkable landmark. The trestle offers stunning views of the Rondout Creek valley, the Shawangunk Ridge, and the Rosendale hamlet. It also connects to other attractions along the rail trail, such as historic buildings, farms, orchards, wetlands, and rock formations.
The Rosendale Trestle is more than just a bridge; it’s a symbol of resilience and transformation. It’s a testament to how an old industrial relic can be repurposed into a new recreational asset that benefits both people and nature. It’s a reminder of how our past shapes our present and future. And it’s a wonderful place to enjoy some fresh air and adventure in the Hudson Valley.
If you want to visit the Rosendale Trestle, you can park at the Binnewater Kiln parking lot on Binnewater Road (off Route 213), about a quarter mile from the trestle. You can also access it from other points along the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail. The trestle is open year-round from dawn to dusk, and it’s free of charge.