Beacon Overlook: A Hudson Valley Hiking Gem
Hike to Beacon Overlook for breathtaking Hudson Valley views, explore historic ruins, and immerse yourself in natural beauty.
Beacon Overlook, accessible via the Casino Trail in Beacon, NY, offers stunning panoramic views of the Hudson River and surrounding valley. The trail leads to the ruins of a historic casino and provides a moderately challenging hike through the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, blending natural beauty with historical intrigue.
A brief summary to Beacon Overlook
- Casino Trail, Beacon, New York, 12508, US
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-9 pm
- Thursday 7 am-9 pm
- Friday 7 am-9 pm
- Saturday 7 am-9 pm
- Sunday 7 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends and during peak seasons (summer and fall), as the parking lot can fill up quickly.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots due to the rocky and steep sections of the trail.
- Bring water and snacks to stay energized during the hike.
- Follow the red blazes to stay on the Casino Trail, as there are multiple intersecting trails.
- Combine your hike with a visit to downtown Beacon to explore its shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Beacon, the Casino Trail trailhead is accessible by foot, though it's a significant uphill walk. Head east on Main Street, then turn left onto Wolcott Avenue. Continue on Wolcott Avenue; the trailhead and parking area will be on your left. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and will take about 30-40 minutes. Be prepared for an initial uphill climb on Wolcott Avenue.
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Public Transport
The Metro-North Railroad's Beacon Station is located in downtown Beacon. From the station, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) to the Casino Trail trailhead at 788 Wolcott Ave. The ride is approximately 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, you can walk (see Walking directions), keeping in mind the uphill climb.
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Taxi/Ride-sharing
From the Beacon Metro-North train station or anywhere in downtown Beacon, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) to the Casino Trail trailhead at 788 Wolcott Ave is a convenient option. The ride is approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $10-$15 for the ride.
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