The best MTB trails in Hudson Highlands State Park

The Blue Mountain Reservation Advanced Loop offers a raw, old-school mountain biking experience through the rugged Hudson Highlands. This 11.7-mile (18.9 km) route, with 662 feet (202 metres) of elevation gain, is a technical challenge that will test your skills and fitness over an estimated 2 hours and 2 minutes. Expect to navigate rock gardens, large glacial outcroppings, and root-covered climbs, especially on sections like Myx Monster, which is known for its tough ascents and big rock rollers. The varied topography and thick canopy create a backcountry feel, with glimpses of the Hudson River from higher points like Mt. Spitzenberg. It's a demanding ride, rated moderate by Komoot but truly an expert-level black diamond experience, best suited for advanced riders who thrive on technical terrain and erratic elevation changes. You'll need a full-suspension bike with sturdy tires to tackle the brutally technical uphill sections and intense slab features.

To make the most of your visit, plan your trip during the spring or fall for the best trail conditions and spectacular autumn colors. While the park is open year-round, summer can bring thick canopies and winter might present icy challenges. The trail is located in Peekskill, New York, and parking is available at the Blue Mountain Reservation trailhead. Given the technical nature and slow average speeds, it's wise to start your ride early, especially on weekends, to allow ample time and avoid crowded sections. Always carry enough water, as the demanding nature of the ride will keep you working hard, and be prepared for a truly physical and mental test.

This advanced loop is part of a larger 1,538-acre park, offering approximately 30 miles of trails across various skill levels, from beginner yellow to intermediate orange. What sets this particular loop apart is its reputation as one of the most demanding and rewarding trail systems in the New New York metropolitan region, celebrated for its natural beauty and technical difficulty. It incorporates sections of renowned trails like Boundary Trail, Blue Mountain Summit Trail, Limbo, and Stinger. The landscape, rich with massive glacial formations, provides a unique geological backdrop to your ride, making it a standout destination for those seeking a true East Coast mountain biking adventure.

The Blue Mountain Reservation Beginner Loop takes you through 1,538 acres of protected woodland, offering a genuine escape into mature hardwood forests and past rocky hills. Despite its name, this 3.4-mile (5.5 km) mountain biking route is rated moderate, featuring constant elevation changes and technical sections that demand some skill. You'll gain 343 feet (104 metres) over about 31 minutes, with occasional glimpses of the Hudson River Valley, especially near the Blue Mountain Summit Trail.

Planning your ride here means preparing for a popular destination; arriving early is often key to finding parking. The park is open year-round, but spring and fall provide the most comfortable riding conditions. Always check trail conditions, as the exposed roots and rock gardens can become more challenging after wet weather.

Blue Mountain Reservation is renowned as one of the Northeast's premier mountain biking spots, known for its extensive natural-surface trails. While many routes are highly technical, the park also offers truly beginner-friendly options like the

The Moneyhole Mountain Loop is an easy 8.1-mile mountain bike trail in Clarence Fahnestock State Park with 617 feet of elevation gain.