Three Lakes Trail, Fahnestock State Park – Hudson Valley Hiking Adventures with Maxwell Alexander

One of the most popular hikes in New York’s Hudson Valley is the Three Lakes Trail in Fahnestock State Park. Considered one of the most scenic trails around, it’s one of the best ways to spend a warrior weekend. Before you go, there are some things you need to know about hiking in the Hudson Valley, so read on to prepare.

Why do it?

For your spring getaway to New York and the first hike of 2022? Maybe a weekend warrior looking for inspiration to explore new trails in New York State? If you’re interested in backpacking upstate New York but need help deciding where to go, or just want to know what a weekend adventure in the Hudson Valley, check out my hiking adventures with Hudson Valley Style Magazine and my recent hike at Three Lakes Trail, Fahnestock State Park (below).

What do you want to know

The idea of ​​a weekend getaway is romantic, but it seems everyone is too busy to take one. There are only 168 hours in a week, and if you want to advance your career or passion projects, taking weekends away from work can be difficult and you may not have enough time for yourself. prepare for the hike.

One thing you should know about hiking in the Hudson Valley is that the New York State Department of Parks and Recreation has warned anyone visiting the area about ticks and Lyme disease . It may sound scary, but you shouldn’t be: just follow rule number one to stay on the trail and avoid entering grassy/bushy areas known as tick/mosquito habitats and you’ll be fine good. Also, consider using a natural insect repellent with organic essential oils, to repel these insects without using dangerous pesticides such as DEET and picaridin. You love nature, so why would you come and visit the forest covered in chemicals that kill innocent creatures like bees and salamanders? Think about it. I use DA Aromatherapy’s natural insect repellent with 7 organic essential oils. It smells good and does not harm the environment that I value so much.

best time of the year

Everyone will tell you that the best time of year to visit is late October and early November, just before Thanksgiving. The Hudson Valley is filled with color that offers breathtaking views. The trails are still open and there aren’t many other people hiking. This makes for a perfect weekend warrior adventure! However, my personal opinion on this is that any season has its advantages and my recent hike in early spring creates unforgettable memories.

best time of day

As a weekend warrior, I can choose the time of day that works best for me. I love late afternoon hikes. The sun is high enough to see well, but not as hot as it will be when it peaks at noon. My favorite season to hike is spring, so I choose a time of year when the temperatures are usually neither too cold nor too hot. Late afternoons create incredible sunset lighting for my photography projects and I take every opportunity to capture that spectacular golden hour in the mountains.

How to get there from NYC

(Fahnestock State Park on Google Maps) The best way to get there is to take the Metro-North Railroad from Grand Central Terminal. You can take a train from as far north as Croton-Harmon (train name: Harlem Line) or as far south as Poughkeepsie (name: Hudson Line). If you want to be efficient, I highly recommend getting off at Cold Spring and using an Uber to get to Fahnestock State Park. Plan your trip in advance here.

Hiking

The 3.7 mile (round trip) Three Lakes Trail is one of my favorite hikes in Fahnestock State Park, which to be honest is like saying the BEST Instagram hiking movie ever. The views of Lake Canopus and its three adjoining sisters are unparalleled and since it loops back on itself after a round trip to Lake Canopus, you can decide how long you hike. You will not fail to notice the real beaver dams created along the stream connecting the lakes. It was a bit mind blowing to me because I had never seen such incredible work that a creature like a beaver could do. here is Three Lakes Trailhead on Google Maps for you >> There is parking for about 10 cars right there so anything can be taken on a busy day so Uber is definitely your best bet.

Tips for this hike

Plan to hike at least 4 miles on mostly flat terrain, you will cross a few creeks and have an amazing experience of being so close to nature. This is a great weekend adventure if you have the time and want to spend a few days hiking and exploring upstate New York, so if you need help finding an amazing Airbnb to stay in the area, check out our featured Airbnb listings here >>