Walkway Over the Hudson is one of the most rewarding ways to spend a day in Dutchess County, regardless of whether you’re doing it for the first time or coming back for more. Pairing it with a stop at Dutchess Roots makes for a well-rounded Hudson Valley outing. This guide covers what to know before you go, what to pack, and a few cannabis picks to consider after your walk.
About the Walkway Over the Hudson
Walkway Over the Hudson is the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge, stretching between Poughkeepsie and Highland, New York, 212 feet above the river itself.
Originally built in 1888 as the Poughkeepsie-Highland Railroad Bridge, the structure sat abandoned after a fire in 1974 before a community campaign transformed it into the pedestrian park it is today. The newly re-invisioned Walkway opened in 2009. It’s worth noting that the park itself is a non-smoking space, so cannabis is best saved for after your visit and consumed privately.
How long is the Walkway Over the Hudson?
The bridge runs 1.28 miles one way, gate to gate, which works out to roughly 2.5 miles round trip. That distance takes most visitors somewhere between 30 minutes and an hour each way, depending on pace and how often you stop for photos.
Planning Your Visit to the Walkway
The Walkway is open year-round, seven days a week, from 7 AM to sunset, weather permitting. For some of the best things to do at Walkway Over the Hudson, the glass elevator at Upper Landing Park on the Poughkeepsie side is worth checking out: it drops you right onto the bridge deck without the walk up from street level, though it runs seasonally and is worth confirming through the Elevator Hotline before you go.
Guided group tours and a self-guided audio tour through the TravelStorys app are also worth adding to your visit if you want more history behind the old railroad bridge. The bridge itself is flat and fully paved, making it accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and anyone who prefers an easier walk over a hilly trail.
Parking is available on both the Poughkeepsie and Highland sides, with a mix of free and metered options depending on the lot. The Walkway Over the Hudson website has the most current parking details before you head out, especially with ongoing construction affecting some lots.
What to Bring for a Walk Across the Walkway Over the Hudson
There’s no shade anywhere along the span, so sunscreen and a hat go a long way even on a mild day. Comfortable shoes matter too; 1.28 miles each way adds up faster than it sounds, especially if you’re planning the full round trip. It tends to be windier up on the bridge than it is on the ground, so a light layer is worth packing even in warmer months.
Water is a good idea for the full round trip, and a phone or camera is worth having charged, since the views north to the Catskills and south along the river are hard to capture in just one photo. If you’re bringing a dog, you’ll need a leash. The pavement can get hot enough to burn paws in the summer, so test it with the back of your hand for seven seconds before going further.
7 Cannabis Picks to Enjoy After Your Walk
Once you’ve finished exploring the Walkway, you can stop by Dutchess Roots in Poughkeepsie to browse cannabis products for private consumption after your visit.
- So Dope Flower Sour Diesel is a classic flower strain worth picking up for a relaxed evening at home after your adventure.
- MFNY Cartridge Chemdog Live Rosin is a solid vape pick if you’re looking for a concentrated option to enjoy privately after your day out.
- Ruby Farms Rose Petal Infused Preroll Ghost Train Haze #2 adds a floral twist to a classic infused pre-roll for a relaxing end to your day.
- Anthem Infused Wood Tip Preroll Strawberry Cough infused wood tip pre-rolls come as a 5-pack, making them an option to take home and enjoy later.
- 7 Seaz All in One Juicy Fruit is a simple all-in-one disposable for anyone who wants a low-maintenance option for private use after their outing.
- Off Hours Rope Party Animal is a fun edible format at 100mg if you’re winding down after a day of exploring.
- CQ Beverage Old Fashioned Lemonade Sativa Shot is worth grabbing if you’d rather sip something at home after your visit.
Remember: Public consumption isn’t allowed, so save cannabis consumption for a private setting after your Walkway visit.
Make Dutchess Roots Part of Your Day
This Walkway Over the Hudson travel guide wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Dutchess Roots after your visit. Browse our full menu ahead of time to see what’s in stock, or stop by 2615 South Road in Poughkeepsie after your walk and let our team help you find the right pick. We’re open Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 9 PM and Sunday from 11 AM to 6 PM.
