This spring, outdoor enthusiasts will encounter a change as the Breakneck Ridge station on the Metro-North’s Hudson Line is set to close for two years beginning April 21. Situated between Cold Spring and Beacon, this station largely caters to hikers headed to Hudson Highlands State Park. Currently, it operates with limited service, accommodating five trains weekly exclusively on weekends.
The station’s temporary closure will facilitate significant renovations, including the construction of a new connecting bridge. This bridge aims to provide a safer pathway for hikers by enabling them to traverse over New York State Route 9D instead of navigating along its shoulder.
The renovations are part of a broader project that, once completed, will restore Metro-North riders’ direct and safer access to one of New York’s cherished hiking spots, enhancing the route to Hudson Highlands State Park. Additionally, the trailheads for both the Breakneck Ridge Trail and the nearby Wilkinson Trail will remain closed throughout the project.
Despite these closures, alternative hiking opportunities remain available. Hikers can still reach some of the ridge’s scenic overlooks via adjacent trails accessible from the nearby Cold Spring train station. The project’s website also suggests alternative hikes in the vicinity.
This initiative marks the initial phase in developing the Hudson Highland Fjord Trail, which will eventually connect Beacon and Cold Spring, offering expanded recreational options.
The Human Angle
For local hikers and visitors, the closure of the Breakneck Ridge station represents a temporary inconvenience, redirecting those seeking the area’s natural beauty to alternative starting points. The strategic enhancements will ultimately provide a safer and more direct hiking experience, potentially attracting even more visitors to the region once completed.
The project highlights the ongoing development of recreational infrastructure, which aims to improve accessibility and safety for outdoor activities. While the two-year wait may initially deter some visitors, the long-term benefits of the new Hudson Highland Fjord Trail promise to bolster tourism and local business, showcasing the scenic vistas the region has to offer.