This year’s Cycle the Hudson Valley was an unforgettable journey, bringing together riders of all ages and abilities to explore some of New York State’s most scenic trails, historic sites, and vibrant communities–all while supporting Parks & Trails New York’s mission to protect and enhance our public lands. From our kickoff at Hudson Valley Community College to our final ride through Manhattan and Brooklyn, participants experienced the beauty, history, and culture of the Hudson Valley firsthand.
Day 0 – Kickoff
Riders arrived at the Siek Center Auditorium to learn about PTNY’s work from our Director of Policy & Planning Dylan Carey, including how the ride directly supports projects across the state. Our events Manager Tara Quackenbush shared fun facts about the group: riders ranged from 12 to 87 years old, hailed from numerous states and even overseas, and included several birthdays celebrated along the route!
Day 1 – Albany to Hudson (50 miles)
The ride officially began with a careful descent from HVCC, crossing the South Troy Bridge and following the Mohawk-Hudson Bike-Hike Trail into Albany. Riders explored the Corning Preserve, crossed the Dunn Memorial Bridge, and joined the Albany-Hudson Electric Trail, a scenic route along a former trolley line complete with interpretive panels and rolling curves.
Rest stops included the Village of Nassau (Mile 21) and several nearby lunch options in Valatie, Samascott Orchards, and Kinderhook. Riders enjoyed views of historic farms, learned about Martin Van Buren, and navigated a few on-road stretches safely. The day concluded with a stop in Hudson for an afternoon rest and dinner downtown, before camping at Columbia-Greene Community College.
Day 2 – Hudson to New Paltz (53 miles)
The ride continued on scenic country roads with rolling hills, stopping at Germantown for coffee and Clermont State Historic Site for a morning break supported by the local Friends Group. Riders passed through Tivoli, the Tivoli Bays Wildlife Management Area, Bard College, and Poet’s Walk Park, all while enjoying views of the Hudson Valley that inspired generations of writers. After safely crossing the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge, riders explored the Kingston Point Rail Trail, Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, and landmarks like the Rosendale Cement Mines and Trestle, before finishing the day in New Paltz and camping at Ulster County Fairgrounds.
Day 3 – New Paltz to Putnam County (58 miles)
Riders explored scenic trails like the Hudson Valley Rail Trail, the Maybrook Trailway, and the Walkway Over the Hudson, where we were met with a warm welcome! Rest stops included Hopewell Junction, Holmes-Whaley Lake Civic Association, and a final stretch into Carmel Hamlet, with shuttles to local restaurants and services.
Day 4 – North County Trails & Westchester (40 miles)
This day featured the Putnam Trailway, North County Trailway, and stops at Croton Reservoir and Kitchawan Preserve, highlighting local conservation efforts and habitats for birds, butterflies, and native plants. Riders also enjoyed optional side routes into Tarrytown and connections to the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail, before finishing at Mercy College.
Day 5 – Manhattan & Brooklyn Finale (32 miles)
The final day took riders through the South County Trailway, into the Bronx, and along iconic urban trails including the Hudson River Greenway, Little Red Lighthouse, Riverside Park, and the High Line. Highlights included Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, Hudson Yards, Battery Park, and the Brooklyn Bridge, culminating in a triumphant finish at Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Cycle the Hudson Valley 2025 brought together a diverse group of riders, spanning ages, states, and countries–all united by a love of biking, outdoor adventure, and public lands. With each pedal stroke, participants helped support PTNY’s mission, connecting communities to trails, parks, and waterways while celebrating the incredible landscapes of the Hudson Valley.
We can’t wait to see you back on the trail for Cycle the Hudson Valley 2026!