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Palisades Interstate Parkway: A Scenic Byway

Experience breathtaking Hudson River views and explore historical landmarks along this iconic scenic byway through the Palisades Interstate Park.

The Palisades Interstate Parkway is a 38-mile scenic road stretching from the George Washington Bridge to Bear Mountain, offering stunning views of the Hudson River and the Palisades cliffs. A National Historic Landmark, it provides access to hiking trails, picnic areas, and historical sites.

A brief summary to Palisades Interstate Pkwy

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Local tips

  • Visit State Line Lookout for panoramic views; the first hour of parking is free, but you must enter your license plate at the pay station.
  • Explore the hiking trails, but be aware that some trails, like Dyckman Hill Trail, may be closed.
  • Check the Palisades Interstate Park's website for alerts and closures before your visit.
  • Be aware of wildlife, including copperhead snakes, and keep a safe distance.
  • Consider visiting during the fall for stunning foliage and raptor migration views.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Palisades Interstate Parkway is accessible from the George Washington Bridge in Fort Lee, New Jersey. From the bridge's upper level, you can directly access the PIP northbound. From the lower level, follow signs through GWB Plaza to US 9W before entering the parkway. Note that commercial vehicles are prohibited. There are metered parking spots at various locations along the parkway, including State Line Lookout. Parking fees vary, but the first hour at State Line Lookout is free if you register your license plate at the pay station. Be aware that parking areas fill up quickly on weekends.

  • Public Transport

    Rockland Coaches' Red and Tan Bus Line No. 9 runs along Route 9W in New Jersey, providing access to the Palisades Interstate Park. Check the Coach USA website for schedules and stops. From Route 9W, you can access various points within the park. A short walk may be required to reach the Parkway itself. Bus fares vary depending on the distance traveled, but a short trip within Bergen County typically costs around $3-5. Note that bus service may be limited on weekends and holidays.

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Discover more about Palisades Interstate Pkwy

The Palisades Interstate Parkway (PIP) is more than just a road; it's a carefully designed scenic byway offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Stretching 38 miles from the George Washington Bridge in Fort Lee, New Jersey, to Bear Mountain State Park in New York, the parkway provides access to the Palisades Interstate Park, a 2,500-acre preserve along the Hudson River. Construction of the parkway began in 1947 and was completed in 1958, designed to provide a scenic driving experience while minimizing environmental impact. The PIP is known for its stone arch overpasses and several scenic overlooks, including the popular State Line Lookout, offering breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the New York City skyline. The parkway's route follows the Hudson River, with the towering Palisades cliffs on one side. The Palisades themselves are a unique geological formation, attracting visitors for generations. Formed over 200 million years ago, the cliffs offer a dramatic landscape. The parkway and the park are a testament to early conservation efforts, with the Palisades Interstate Park Commission formed in 1900 to protect the area from quarrying operations. Today, the park offers over 30 miles of hiking trails, river access points, and historic sites like Fort Lee Historic Park, where visitors can learn about the area's role in the American Revolutionary War. The parkway is a major commuter route, but commercial vehicles are prohibited, preserving its scenic character. The speed limit is 50 mph, allowing drivers to enjoy the views. Several rest areas and lookout points are located along the parkway, providing opportunities to stop and take in the scenery.

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