Wallkill Valley Rail Trail
Explore over 22 miles of former railroad tracks on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, running through New Paltz and spanning from Gardiner to Kingston.
With thick forestry, sprawling hills and bordered by the Wallkill River, the unpaved stone trail is open from dawn ’til dusk, with no fee for entry. Feel free to walk, run, bike and even ride your horse on the trail.
There are various access points to the former railroad in New Paltz, Gardiner, Kingston and Rosendale. In New Paltz, the most popular trail head is located directly behind Water Street Market along Main Street. There are limited parking locations along the path.
The original railroad the trail currently sits on dates back to the 1860s, with a handful of small stations built on the line. Most of the cargo on the railroad consisted of fruit and milk, but lumber and grain were also transported. Traffic decreased significantly in the early 20th century before the railroad was dismantled in the mid-1980s.
A special aspect of the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail is its part of the Empire State Trail. This trail connects multiple trails throughout the state, especially the Hudson Valley Greenway Trail, Erie Canalway Trail and the Champlain Valley Trail. If you’re looking to take the Empire State Trail, the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail can be accessed by the Hudson Valley Rail Trail from Lloyd to New Paltz, with easy access through Poughkeepsie Station and Walkway Over the Hudson.
To discover more attractions in the New Paltz area, look here.
“This was by far the healthiest and most beautiful day trip idea for our long weekend from NYC – completely reachable via public transport.”
—Apoorva, TripAdvisor
Take Amtrak to Wallkill Valley Rail Trail
Experience this unforgettable attraction via Amtrak to Poughkeepsie Station in Hudson Valley—Don’t forget to use the New York By Rail 15% discount!
Where to Stay in the Hudson Valley
Looking for a getaway opportunity? Spend the night and experience all the Hudson Valley has to offer. Take a look at these great hotel options—some offering exclusive New York By Rail discounts!
