If you are looking for a scenic and easy hike in the Hudson Valley region of New York, you might want to check out the Mongaup River Trail. This trail follows the Mongaup River, a tributary of the Delaware River, for about two miles and offers beautiful views of the river, the forest, and the wildlife.
The trailhead is located on NY-97, a scenic road that runs along the Delaware River. There is a small parking lot with a sign that has some information about the trail and the Mongaup Valley Wildlife Management Area. The trail starts right next to the sign and crosses a bridge over the Mongaup River. From there, it follows the river upstream, mostly on level ground.
The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. It is mostly shaded by large eastern hemlock trees that tower overhead. The river is always in sight and sometimes very close to the trail. There are several spots where you can access the river bank and enjoy the sound of the water rushing over rocks. The river is popular for fishing and kayaking, so you might see some people on the water.
One of the highlights of this trail is the chance to see bald eagles, which nest in the area. The trail is also home to other wildlife, such as deer, foxes, beavers, and various birds. You might also see some wildflowers along the way, depending on the season.
The trail ends at an old cemetery that dates back to the early 1800s. There are about a dozen gravestones, some of which are barely legible. It is a quiet and peaceful place to reflect on the history of the area and the people who lived here. The cemetery is also near a dam that was built by the D&H Canal Company to control the water level of the canal that ran along the river. You can see some remnants of the canal infrastructure along the trail.
The Mongaup River Trail is a great hike for anyone who loves nature and history. It is suitable for hikers of all levels and can be done in about an hour or less. It is also a good option for families with kids and dogs, as long as they are kept on a leash. The trail is open from April to December and closed during winter months to protect endangered species.
So what’s your excuse? Get out there and enjoy!