Green Trailhead and Washburn Trail Intersection

Hello, New York outdoor enthusiasts! If you're looking to escape the concrete jungle and immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Hudson Valley, the Green Trailhead and Washburn Trail Intersection in Philipstown, NY, offers an excellent starting point for your next adventure. Located within the expansive Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, this area serves as a gateway to some of the most scenic and rewarding hikes in the region. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a refreshing walk in nature, this trailhead provides access to trails that cater to various fitness levels, ensuring a memorable experience amidst stunning landscapes.

The Green Trailhead, often associated with the Washburn Trail, is a popular entry point to the trails leading up Bull Hill, also known as Taurus Mountain. This area is renowned for its diverse terrain, ranging from gentle inclines to more challenging ascents, all while offering spectacular panoramic views of the Hudson River, Storm King Mountain, Breakneck Ridge, and even glimpses of the New York City skyline on a clear day. Visitors frequently praise the trails for being "not too steep," making them accessible for a wider range of hikers, while still providing a satisfying workout and rewarding vistas. It’s an ideal spot for those in the New York region seeking both tranquility and invigorating physical activity in a truly picturesque setting. The natural beauty of the Hudson Highlands State Park is something truly special, and this trailhead puts you right in the heart of it.

The Green Trailhead and Washburn Trail Intersection is conveniently located in Philipstown, NY, with the address C2VX+PW. This puts it within the immediate vicinity of Cold Spring, a charming village in Putnam County that is a popular destination for New Yorkers seeking outdoor recreation and small-town charm. The trailhead is situated along Route 9D, just a short drive north of Cold Spring village.

Accessibility to this hiking area from New York City and surrounding regions is excellent. For those driving, Route 9D provides direct access, and the trailhead shares parking with Little Stony Point Park. It's important to note that parking lots, especially for popular trailheads like this one, can fill up quickly on weekends, so arriving early is often recommended. Some sources indicate potential plans for expanding the Washburn Lot to accommodate more parking, but as of now, it's wise to plan accordingly. For an eco-friendlier and often less stressful option, the area is highly accessible via public transportation. The Metro-North Railroad's Hudson Line stops at Cold Spring, which is a short distance from the trailhead. From the Cold Spring station, hikers can arrange for local transport or consider the scenic walk (though always verify distances and safety for walking along busy roads). The ongoing development of the Fjord Trail, a multi-use pathway connecting Beacon and Cold Spring, will further enhance pedestrian and cyclist access to various trailheads in the future.

While a hiking area doesn't offer "services" in the traditional commercial sense, it provides access to a wealth of natural amenities and recreational opportunities. These "services" are inherent in the design and maintenance of the trails and surrounding parkland:

• Well-Maintained Hiking Trails: The primary service is access to a network of marked trails, including the Washburn Trail (white blazes), which is generally well-maintained.
• Clear Trail Blazes: Trails are marked with color-coded blazes (e.g., white for Washburn, yellow for Undercliff, blue for Cornish) to help hikers navigate and stay on course.
• Access to Scenic Overlooks: The trails lead to numerous viewpoints offering stunning panoramic vistas of the Hudson River and surrounding mountains.
• Connectivity to Other Trails: The intersection allows for various loop options and connections to other popular trails within Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, such as the Undercliff Trail and Cornish Trail.
• Educational Opportunities: Though not explicitly stated, the natural environment provides opportunities for learning about local flora, fauna, and geology.
• Visitor Information (at major trailheads): While not directly at this intersection, larger trailheads in the Hudson Highlands area sometimes have trail stewards who can provide maps and advice.

The Green Trailhead and Washburn Trail Intersection, and the trails accessible from it, offer numerous features and highlights that draw hikers from across the New York region:

• Moderate Difficulty: One key highlight, as noted by a reviewer, is that the "hiking area" is "not too steep." While the Washburn Trail itself does involve a "rigorous early climb" or "steep inclines for the first 1.5 miles," it is generally considered moderate, making it accessible to a wide range of hikers and less strenuous than some other infamous regional hikes like Breakneck Ridge, while still offering rewarding views.
• Stunning Panoramic Views: The trails from this intersection lead to incredible vistas of the Hudson River, Storm King Mountain, Breakneck Ridge, West Point, and surrounding highlands. On clear days, views can extend to the Catskills and Shawangunk Mountains, and even the NYC skyline.
• Diverse Loop Options: From the Washburn Trailhead, hikers can embark on various loop trails, including the Bull Hill (Taurus Mountain) Short Loop (approx. 4.6 miles) or Full Loop (approx. 5.5 miles), allowing for customizable hike lengths and challenges.
• Historic Elements: The trails often pass by or connect to the ruins of the Cornish Estate, including its mansion, greenhouse, and gazebo, adding a fascinating historical dimension to the hike.
• Proximity to Cold Spring Village: Its location near Cold Spring allows hikers to combine their outdoor adventure with exploring the charming village, which boasts "cool restaurants, cafés, shops and a nice spot to grab some ice cream" and is easily accessible from the Metro-North station.
• Natural Beauty: The trails wind through diverse woodlands, offering a deep woods feel with varied terrain including quarries, stream crossings, and rock ledges.

As a public hiking area within a state park preserve, the Green Trailhead and Washburn Trail Intersection itself does not typically offer "promotions or special offers" in a commercial sense. Access to the trails is generally free, providing inherent value to all visitors from the New York region. The "special offer" here is the unparalleled opportunity to experience stunning natural landscapes and invigorating outdoor activity at no cost.

However, visitors to this trailhead are perfectly positioned to take advantage of any promotions or events occurring in the nearby village of Cold Spring or within Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve. We recommend checking the official New York State Parks website for Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve for any park-specific programs, guided hikes, or special events that might be taking place. Additionally, exploring the websites and social media of local businesses in Cold Spring can reveal promotions on dining, shopping, or accommodations that could enhance your post-hike experience. Keep an eye out for local festivals or farmers' markets in Cold Spring, as these often feature special deals and add to the overall enjoyment of your visit to the area.

For those planning an adventure to the Green Trailhead and Washburn Trail Intersection, here's the essential contact information:

• Address: C2VX+PW, Philipstown, NY 10516, USA. This address is a general location code for the area. The trailhead is typically found along Route 9D, often sharing parking with Little Stony Point.
• Phone: As a specific point within a larger state park, there isn't a direct phone number for the intersection itself. For inquiries regarding trail conditions, park regulations, or general information about Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, it is best to contact the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) for the Hudson Highlands region. Their contact details can usually be found on the official New York State Parks website, which also offers detailed trail maps and advisories.

For New Yorkers seeking a fantastic outdoor escape, the Green Trailhead and Washburn Trail Intersection is an ideal choice. Its suitability for locals is multifaceted. Firstly, its accessibility from New York City, particularly via Metro-North Railroad to Cold Spring, makes it an incredibly convenient option for a day trip without needing a car. This ease of access encourages more frequent visits and spontaneous adventures. Secondly, the hiking experience itself strikes a perfect balance. While providing a good workout, especially on the initial ascents, the trails are often described as "not too steep" in comparison to some of the more notoriously challenging climbs in the region, making them approachable for a wider range of fitness levels. This ensures a rewarding experience without being overly daunting.

Beyond the physical activity, the visual payoff is immense. The consistently praised "great views" of the Hudson River, surrounding mountains, and distant landmarks offer a profound sense of escape and connection with nature – a vital antidote to city life. The ability to customize your hike through various loop options means you can tailor your outing to your time and energy levels, whether you're looking for a quick scenic walk or a longer, more challenging trek. Finally, its close proximity to the charming village of Cold Spring means your hiking adventure can easily be complemented by exploring local shops, enjoying a meal, or grabbing a well-deserved ice cream. This blend of invigorating outdoor activity and charming village amenities makes the Green Trailhead and Washburn Trail Intersection a truly suitable and highly recommended destination for New Yorkers looking to embrace the natural beauty of their state.

Green Trailhead and Washburn Trail Intersection

C2VX+PW, Philipstown, NY 10516, USA