In:

Celebrating the Hudson Highlands Fjord Trail  

Breakneck Lower Overlook lookoing southwest

The New York–New Jersey Trail Conference proudly celebrates the Hudson Highlands Fjord Trail—a project that will shape the future of outdoor recreation and conservation in our region.  

The Fjord Trail will be a 7.5-mile linear park, connecting the Village of Cold Spring and the City of Beacon, along a majestic stretch of the Hudson River. Creating the first truly accessible trail along the Hudson River in the Hudson Highlands region for people of all ages and abilities, the Fjord Trail will connect to three Metro-North stations allowing more people to experience the beauty of the Hudson Highlands.  

While fjords are carved over thousands of years, the Fjord Trail won’t take quite that long.  With the first phase at Breakneck Ridge currently under construction, the project is already making strides toward reshaping the visitor experience in one of the most beloved landscapes in the country.  

A Strong Partnership  

The Trail Conference has participated in shaping the Fjord Trail project since 2013, serving on the project’s steering committee and contributing invaluable Trail Conference Trail Steward data to inform its planning.  

Together, we have already celebrated important milestones including:  

  • The completion of the new Steward Station at Breakneck Ridge: Built for the Trail Conference Trail Stewards by the Fjord Trail team, complete with a green-planted roof and solar panels.  
  • The planning of the Nimham Trail: Designed collaboratively by the Trail Conference, NYS Parks, HHFT, and Tahawus Trails to give hikers a safe alternative descent from Breakneck Ridge—reducing injuries, easing congestion, and aiding first responders.  
Breakneck Ribbon Cutting
Breakneck Ribbon Cutting

Current & Future Projects  

As construction begins on the Breakneck Connector and Bridge Project in Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, the Trail Conference continues to play a vital role. Our Trail Stewards, alongside State Parks staff, are on the ground assisting and orienting hikers during this period of change.  

Looking ahead, the Fjord Trail promises to become a national model for sustainable recreation, where safe access, environmental protection, and community benefit go hand in hand.  

Join us at our Annual Gala on Friday, October 3rd, to celebrate 

The Hudson Highlands Fjord Trail represents the very best of what happens when partnership, vision, and stewardship come together. The Trail Conference is honored to help lead this effort—and on Friday, October 3rd at The Garrison, in Garrison, NY we will celebrate not only a trail, but a legacy that will connect people with nature for generations to come. Buy tickets here. 

In: