IN PARTNERSHIP WITH DUTCHESS COUNTY GOVERNMENT
Welcome to scenic Dutchess County , established in 1683 as one of the original counties of New York . Nestled in the Hudson River Valley , midway between New York City and the capital city of Albany , it is easily accessible by car , train , bus , air and boat . With its abundance of historic landmarks , restaurants , festivals and natural scenic beauty , Dutchess County is 800 square miles of fascinating sites , lively events and breathtaking vistas .
Beautiful landscapes are the heart of Dutchess County , and focal point of many outdoor activities . In 90 seconds , take the glass elevator from the Hudson Riverfront up to the top and stroll across the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park . The world ’ s longest elevated pedestrian bridge , it connects to the Dutchess Rail Trail ’ s 13 miles . Enjoy views of the Hudson River Valley from atop three fire towers on Mt . Beacon , Stissing Mountain and Ferncliff Forest , Rhinebeck . Go on a guided hike through the highlands !
Views of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains beyond are breathtaking . Be right in the action ; feel the wind on your face as you tour the Hudson River by riverboat , sailboat , water taxi or kayak . Try your hand at sporting clays , trap or skeet shooting at seven clubs and game preserves , including the nation ’ s oldest shooting grounds , Orvis Sandanona . Commune with nature at 16 championship golf courses , two among the oldest in the USA . You ’ ll find a variety of sizes and designs including an Irish links-style course . For a more relaxed experience with nature , stroll six estate grounds , gardens and trails .
See where 400 years of history actually happened ! Not only can you step back in time , you can choose which time ; Colonial era , Quaker days or the Gilded Age . Learn about your roots at the inspiring Franklin D . Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum . Tour Springwood , FDR ’ s lifelong home and Val-Kill , Eleanor ’ s retreat . Tour the Great Estates , the gracious homes of the Vanderbilts and families who built America .
Have a memorable meal at The Culinary Institute of America ’ s four student-staffed restaurants . Visit our farms and markets to taste fresh-to-the-table products ; many restaurants feature locally sourced produce . Tour and taste at our wineries , breweries and distilleries . Plan a getaway to Rhinebeck , renowned for its charming shops , antiques , galleries and fine dining . After strolling the galleries at Dia : Beacon , explore hip , happening Beacon and hear live music in the clubs .
Explore the Hidden Treasures of Dutchess . Planning your trip is easier with our new one , three , and five-day Travel Itineraries . Discover what makes us distinctly Dutchess , and perfect for you .
Best of luck as you run some of our beautiful rail trails during the Walkway Marathon . We welcome you to Dutchess County and encourage you to return soon !
Sincerely , Mary Kay Vrba
Dear Walkway Participant ! Congratulations on being part of the 2nd Annual Walkway Marathon !
This was one of the ideal events we considered and hoped for when the Walkway Over the Hudson was just a long shot dream . Your commitment and fortitude in your pursuit as a participant are akin to the fighting spirit it took to bring the dream of this walkway and this event to reality .
I applaud you for your passion and thank you for being part of this great event ! I wish for you a safe race and a happy return to our Walkway many times in the future !
Sincerely , Chuck Benfer Market President – Poughkeepsie | Sussex