Harlem Valley Rail Trail

Map


View Harlem Valley Rail Trail in a larger map

Park Overview:

This paved rail trail goes through the eastern edge of Dutchess County and into Columbia County.
Trail Uses:Hiking, Mountain biking, Handicapped
Dogs:Dogs on leash
Trail Miles:14.4 miles
Park Acreage:
City/County/
State:		Wassaic,
Millerton/Dutchess/NY
Web Map:Trail map
Park Description:

The portion of the Harlem Line that forms the rail-trail was completed in 1852 and later became part of the New York Central Railroad system (which became Penn Central in 1968). Until 1972, passenger service was operated by the New York Central Railroad (1968-1972 by Penn Central) as far as Chatham (where it connected with the Boston-Albany line).  Freight service on the line was abandoned in 1981.

Use the Contact Information link for an expanded history as well as updates about progress towards completing the entire trail.

The section from Wassaic to Chatham is being developed as a 10 foot wide paved rail trail. Trail is open to skating, cycling, hiking, other non-motorized use, but no horses.  Taconic State Park is nearby.
Trails Overview:

The trail is planned to be 46.1 miles long. In 2009 two sections were completed, a 10.8 mile section in Dutchess County from Wassaic to Millerton, and a 3.7 mile segment in Columbia County from Under Mountain Rd. to Copake Falls Station.

The trail map link above describes six sections of the trail and the extent of their completion (the map/brochure has no publication date).
Directions:

The south trailhead is the Wassaic Metro-North station on NY 22. The north trailhead for the contiguous 10.8 mile section is in Millerton on US 44 near the intersection with NY 22. There are several alternative access points with parking along the trail.

 
Contact Information:Harlem Valley Rail Trail Association
518-789-9591
Region:Dutchess County
Fees:None
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