Fish our waters, sail our rivers, cruise our history.
Is sailing the legendary Clearwater on your bucket list? Pete Seeger’s famed Hudson River flagship is booking three-hour sails through October from ports along the river between NYC and Albany. Learn about Hudson River history and ecology as you help hoist the sails, steer the tiller and sing along with the crew on this authentic, hands-on 19th century river cruise adventure.
The trout are teeming in Hudson Valley waters through September, along with smallmouth and largemouth bass. With thousands of miles of streams, ponds, and lakes to fish, your only problem may be choosing a spot. Lucky for you there are plenty of river guides and charter services to help.
Sail the Hudson’s fall colors aboard the shaded decks of the Rip Van Winkle on Kingston’s Hudson River Cruises. Discover grand estates, sleepy villages and vineyards, and picturesque lighthouses in a colorful October Leaf Peeper cruise. For groups, weddings or unique corporate events the Rip Van Winkle can accommodate up to 175 people.
Stroll through autumn’s breathtaking colors at Five Locks Walk in High Falls, a National Historic Landmark that leads you along the ancient towpath of the Delaware and Hudson Canal from Locks 16 to 20. It’s open to foot traffic from dawn to dusk. Wear good walking shoes. The Canal Museum is open weekends through October.
Beginner and skilled kayakers alike can enjoy a Sleepy Hollow Sunset Tour with Hudson River Recreation. Tour places where ghosts and goblins roam free, to Kidd Rock, historic Tarrytown Lighthouse and amazing views of the palisades, Croton Point and Hook Mountain. Well-trained guides provide instruction where needed.
Ulster County’s Falling Waters Preserve lets you explore the rugged beauty of the Hudson River on a mile-long trail that hugs the riverside’s rock ledges past picturesque waterfalls and brilliant views of the Catskills. Acres of woods and streams are open year round from dawn to dusk for hiking and picnicking.
Falling water awaits at Minnewaska State Park Preserve on Ulster County’s Shawangunk Mountain ridge, where 25 miles of footpaths lead to numerous waterfalls and lakes, dense forests and sheer cliffs, plus world-class rock climbing. Water wonders include Peter’s Kill, Sheldon Falls and a 65-foot cascade of plunging crystal waters at Awosting Falls.
For more ideas, visit Hudson Valley region.