Outdoors

If you’ve never met the Hudson River up close, it’s a must. Head down to one of Dave and Leah’s favorite spots, Long Dock Park, to see the mighty river and walk along some smooth, easy paths towards Dennings Point. Pete Seeger Park is a north of Long Dock, with swing sets for the kids. Bring a picnic and enjoy at either spot.

For a slightly harder outing, hike up Mt. Beacon and visit the fire tower to get some nice vistas of the Hudson River Valley. There is an easy-to-find parking lot on the front side of the mountain with a very straightforward trail up the mountain. The parking lot can fill up fast on a beautiful weekend day! There is a less straightforward, but more beautiful trail up the backside to the reservoir via Pocket Rd, that the locals tend to use. Parking is more challenging. Reach out to Leah if you’re interested in this!

For a further jaunt, head to another favorite, the Minnewaska State Park Preserve (about 45 minutes from Beacon) to visit the Shawangunk Mountain ridge. It’s $10 per vehicle to enter, and worth it! There are lots of trails with varying difficult levels, from easy to hard.