Anthony's Nose

For New Yorkers with a passion for the outdoors, a desire for breathtaking vistas, and a willingness to conquer a rewarding challenge, Anthony's Nose in Garrison, NY, stands as an iconic and must-experience hiking destination. Nestled within the picturesque Hudson Highlands, this prominent peak offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views of the Hudson River, the majestic Bear Mountain Bridge, and the surrounding rolling mountains. It's more than just a hike; it's an immersive experience that provides an invigorating escape from city life and a chance to truly connect with the natural grandeur that lies just beyond the five boroughs.

Anthony's Nose has long been a favorite among local hikers, drawing enthusiasts with its promise of unparalleled scenery. While it's known for its sometimes steep and rugged ascent, the reward at the summit – a vast, open rock face offering sweeping 360-degree views – makes every step worthwhile. It's a place where you can truly feel on top of the world, gazing at the serpentine path of the Hudson River and the engineering marvel of the Bear Mountain Bridge. The popularity of Anthony's Nose is a testament to its beauty and accessibility for those in the New York region. Whether you're an experienced trekker seeking a satisfying workout or a casual hiker looking for an unforgettable view, Anthony's Nose offers routes of varying lengths and difficulties to suit different levels of adventure. It's a prime example of the diverse and stunning natural landscapes available right in New York's backyard, proving that world-class outdoor experiences are just a short journey away.

Anthony's Nose is located in Garrison, NY, with a primary access point at Mystery Point Rd, Fort Montgomery, NY 10524, USA. This places it strategically within the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, a sprawling natural area known for its rugged beauty and extensive trail networks. The location offers excellent accessibility for hikers from across the New York metropolitan area and beyond.

For those traveling by car, Anthony's Nose is easily reachable via U.S. Route 9D or Route 202/6. The most popular trailhead is typically found just north of the Bear Mountain Bridge on Route 9D. Parking is often roadside, in designated pull-offs along Route 9D or near the Bear Mountain Bridge toll house, which can be limited, especially on weekends and during peak foliage season. Arriving early, particularly on pleasant days, is highly recommended to secure a spot. Be mindful of traffic when exiting your vehicle, as Route 9D can have fast-moving cars. Another common access point is from South Mountain Pass Road, which offers a slightly different, often less crowded approach. The drive itself is part of the experience, winding through picturesque Hudson Valley scenery.

One of the major advantages of Anthony's Nose for New York City dwellers is its excellent accessibility via public transportation. The Metro-North Railroad's Hudson Line provides direct service from Grand Central Terminal to the Manitou or Garrison train stations. From the Manitou station, the trailhead is just a short walk, making it one of the most convenient and car-free hiking options available directly from NYC. This seamless transition from urban transit to a rugged mountain trail makes Anthony's Nose an incredibly appealing choice for city residents eager to embrace the outdoors without the need for a car. The confluence of scenic roads and reliable rail service truly underscores why this hiking area is a prime destination for New Yorkers.

As a natural hiking area within the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, Anthony's Nose primarily offers access to marked trails and natural amenities rather than commercial "services." However, it provides several key provisions for hikers:

• Well-Maintained Hiking Trails: The area features a network of marked trails, including sections of the white-blazed Appalachian Trail and the blue-blazed Camp Smith Trail, leading to the summit and various viewpoints. These trails are generally maintained, though their rugged nature means they can be steep and rocky.
• Panoramic Viewpoints: The primary "service" is providing access to the breathtaking summit views of the Hudson River, Bear Mountain Bridge, and the surrounding Highlands. There are typically multiple vantage points at the top for hikers to spread out and enjoy the scenery.
• Public Access: The preserve is open year-round, from dawn to dusk, allowing free public access to the trails and natural environment. This makes it a readily available outdoor recreation option.
• Trailhead Kiosks/Signage: At common trailheads (e.g., on Route 9D), there are often kiosks or signs providing basic information about the trails, safety guidelines, and Leave No Trace principles.
• Dog-Friendly: Leashed dogs are permitted on the trails, allowing pet owners to enjoy the hike with their canine companions, provided they clean up after their pets.
• Informal Parking Areas: While not structured parking lots, designated pull-offs along the roadside serve as parking areas for hikers, facilitating access to the trailheads.
• Volunteer Trail Steward Presence: On busy days, the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference often deploys Trail Stewards who provide valuable assistance and education to hikers, promoting safety and responsible trail use.

Anthony's Nose boasts several outstanding features that make it a highly desirable hiking destination, particularly for those in the New York region seeking a memorable outdoor experience:

• Iconic Panoramic Views: The absolute highlight is the breathtaking, unobstructed panoramic views from the summit. Hikers are rewarded with stunning vistas of the Hudson River as it snakes through the valley, the majestic Bear Mountain Bridge arching across the water, and the sprawling Hudson Highlands. This quintessential Hudson Valley scenery makes the effort of the climb truly worthwhile and provides incredible photo opportunities.
• Diverse Trail Options and Difficulty: While often described as a moderate to strenuous hike due to its steep sections and rocky terrain, Anthony's Nose offers various routes (e.g., from Route 9D via the Appalachian Trail, or via the Camp Smith Trail from different starting points). These routes vary in length and difficulty, allowing hikers to choose an adventure that suits their fitness level, from shorter, steeper climbs (around 2-3 miles roundtrip with significant elevation gain) to longer, more gradual ascents (up to 6+ miles depending on the loop or out-and-back chosen).
• Proximity to the Appalachian Trail: A section of the legendary Appalachian Trail traverses Anthony's Nose, allowing hikers the unique experience of walking a portion of this famous long-distance trail. This adds a layer of prestige and interest for many outdoor enthusiasts.
• Accessibility via Public Transport: For New Yorkers without a car, the convenience of reaching the trailhead directly from the Manitou Metro-North train station is a significant highlight. This makes a car-free day trip to a challenging and scenic mountain readily achievable, reducing barriers to enjoying the outdoors.
• Seasonal Beauty: Anthony's Nose offers stunning scenery year-round. In spring, it's vibrant with new growth; in summer, lush and green. The fall foliage is particularly spectacular, with the entire valley ablaze in autumnal colors, drawing large crowds. Even in winter, with proper gear, the snow-covered views can be breathtaking.
• Part of Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve: Being part of this larger preserve means hikers are immersed in a protected natural environment. This ensures the preservation of the landscape and offers opportunities for observing local flora and fauna.

As a public hiking area within the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, Anthony's Nose does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the way a business would. Its inherent "value" comes from being a free and accessible natural resource. However, there are "offers" that benefit the public through its management and community involvement:

• Free Access: The most significant "offer" is that access to Anthony's Nose and its trails is completely free of charge. There are no entrance fees or parking fees (though parking can be limited and requires finding a legal spot), making it an economical outdoor activity.
• Volunteer Opportunities: Organizations like the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference regularly host volunteer events for trail maintenance and stewardship. While not a "promotion," participating in these events offers a unique way to contribute to the preservation of the trail and connect with the hiking community. These opportunities are generally free to join and are announced on the organizations' websites.
• Educational Programs (Occasional): Local environmental groups, state park naturalists, or trail organizations may occasionally offer free or low-cost guided hikes, nature walks, or educational programs focusing on the ecology, geology, or history of the Hudson Highlands. These are not regularly scheduled at Anthony's Nose itself but are part of the broader offerings within the state park system.
• Trail Steward Presence: On busy weekends, the presence of volunteer Trail Stewards provides a valuable "service" by offering guidance, safety information, and promoting Leave No Trace principles, enhancing the experience for all hikers.

For information on any community-led events, trail conditions, or safety advisories, it is best to consult the websites of the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (which manages Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve), or local outdoor enthusiast groups.

As a natural area within a state park preserve, Anthony's Nose does not have a direct commercial phone number or staffed reception. It is managed as part of the larger Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve.

Address: Mystery Point Rd, Garrison, NY 10524, USA (This is a general access point, specific trailheads may have slightly different coordinates).

For official information regarding the park, trail conditions, regulations, and any potential alerts, the best points of contact are the managing authorities and relevant trail organizations:

• New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation: For general information about Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, including Anthony's Nose. Their website is typically the most reliable source for official park details. While a direct phone number for a specific park office might not always be prominently listed for general inquiries, their main regional offices can often provide assistance.
• New York-New Jersey Trail Conference: This organization is actively involved in trail maintenance, stewardship, and providing detailed maps and information for hikes in the region, including Anthony's Nose. Their website (nynjtc.org) is an excellent resource for trail maps, conditions, and news.
• Emergency Services: In case of an emergency on the trail, always dial 911. Be prepared to provide your location as accurately as possible.

It is always advisable to check these resources before heading out for a hike, especially for any trail closures, weather advisories, or important safety information.

Anthony's Nose is an exceptionally suitable hiking destination for New York locals, offering a perfect blend of challenging physical activity and unparalleled scenic beauty, all within remarkably easy reach. For residents of New York City and the surrounding suburbs, the ability to access a truly spectacular mountain experience via a short drive or, more notably, a direct Metro-North train ride to the Manitou station, is a significant advantage. This accessibility means that a rejuvenating escape into nature doesn't require extensive planning or costly travel, making it an ideal choice for spontaneous day trips or regular weekend adventures.

What makes Anthony's Nose particularly appealing to locals is its incredible payoff. Despite the moderate to strenuous effort required for some of its routes, the panoramic views from the summit are nothing short of breathtaking. Gazing out at the winding Hudson River, the architectural marvel of the Bear Mountain Bridge, and the vast expanse of the Hudson Highlands provides an instant sense of awe and tranquility, a powerful antidote to the urban environment. It's a place where the grandeur of nature can be fully appreciated, offering a profound sense of perspective and a much-needed break from the daily grind.

Moreover, the diverse trail options cater to various fitness levels, ensuring that both seasoned hikers and those looking for a challenging workout can find their ideal path. The consistent effort by organizations like the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference to maintain these trails and promote responsible hiking practices further enhances the experience for all visitors. For any New Yorker seeking an accessible, rewarding, and visually stunning outdoor adventure that invigorates both body and spirit, Anthony's Nose stands as an indispensable local treasure, a constant invitation to explore the magnificent backyard of the Hudson Valley.

Anthony's Nose

Mystery Point Rd, Garrison, NY 10524, USA