Hiking Anthony’s Nose Trail: A Must-Do Day Trip Adventure Near NYC
Having grown up in a more suburban area, I often crave being in the tranquility of nature. For me, escaping the City for a weekend getaway is my go-to choice to find that much-needed stillness. Luckily, there are several fantastic hikes reachable by train from NYC, and one of the closest gems is Anthony's Nose
We embarked on a Saturday morning trek from NYC to Upstate in July, amidst the clearing smoke from the Canadian Wildfires, creating a timely opportunity to appreciate nature's beauty. The journey was well worth it, offering breathtaking views, uncrowded trails, and a moderate terrain to explore. If you're planning your own hike, here are a few tips including to get you started including difficulty level, starting points, how to get there from NYC, what to pack, and our experience. I hope you enjoy the journey as much as we did!
Difficulty
The Anthony's Nose Trail is of moderate difficulty, featuring a significant elevation gain and rocky terrain. With sections of steep inclines, hikers need to be prepared for uphill climbs. The trail's length varies, ranging from 2.6 to 6 miles (4.2 to 9.7 kilometers) roundtrip. While suitable for most hikers with a reasonable level of fitness, it's important to exercise caution, wear appropriate footwear, and bring necessary supplies. Following trail markers and practicing hiking safety are essential for an enjoyable experience on this scenic trail.
Starting points
There are a number of spots at which to start the trail, the below list includes the most popular starting points:
Anthony's Nose Trailhead: The main trailhead on Route 9D in Cortlandt Manor, NY. The roundtrip distance from this trailhead to Anthony's Nose is approximately 2.6 miles (4.2 kilometers) with an elevation gain of about 900 feet (274 meters). The estimated walking time is around 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and hiking experience.
Camp Smith Trailhead II: Located off Route 6 in Cortlandt Manor, this trailhead provides access to the southern section of Anthony's Nose Trail. The roundtrip distance from Camp Smith Trailhead to Anthony's Nose is approximately 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers) with an elevation gain of around 1,200 feet (366 meters). The estimated walking time is approximately 3-4 hours.
Bear Mountain Bridge Toll House Trailhead: This trailhead is located near Bear Mountain Bridge, providing another option to start the hike. The roundtrip distance from the Bear Mountain Bridge Toll House Trailhead to Anthony's Nose is approximately 5 miles (8 kilometers) with an elevation gain of around 1,100 feet (335 meters). The estimated walking time for this route is approximately 3-4 hours.
Bear Mountain State Park: Starting from Bear Mountain State Park, you can access various trails that connect to Anthony's Nose. The distance and elevation can vary depending on the specific trail chosen. For example, starting from the Bear Mountain Inn, the roundtrip distance to Anthony's Nose is approximately 6 miles (9.7 kilometers) with an elevation gain of about 1,500 feet (457 meters). The estimated walking time for this route is around 4-5 hours.
Please keep in mind that these estimated walking times are approximate and can vary depending on individual hiking speed, trail conditions, and rest breaks. It's always a good idea to allow extra time and plan accordingly based on your own fitness level and hiking experience.
The journey
I recommend starting the trail at Bear Mountain State Park. If you are looking for a slightly shorter hike, you can start further north at the Camp Smith Trailhead II. Starting from these points allows you to traverse the trails without the crowds and enjoy some of the serene nature (almost!) on your own.
The initial part of the trail takes you through a wooded section, with the sound of birds chirping and the rustling of leaves underfoot. The trail gradually ascends, offering occasional glimpses of the Hudson River through the trees.
As you continue along the trail, you'll reach a point where the path opens up, revealing stunning panoramic views of the Hudson River, Bear Mountain Bridge, and the surrounding landscape. This was probably our favorite viewpoint of the hike, perhaps because it was the first viewpoint of the day, outside of Anthony’s Nose. Take a moment to soak in the beauty and capture some memorable photos.
The trail then meanders along the ridge, gradually gaining elevation. You'll encounter rocky sections, providing a bit of a challenge and adding to the sense of adventure. Keep following the trail markers to stay on the right path.
We exited the path at Appalachian National Scenic Trail Parking. It was less of a parking lot and more of a highway, with cars parked on the shoulder. We had taken the train so ended up waiting about 20 minutes for an Uber to pick us up and take us back to Peekskill.
There are a number of local restaurants in the area, but we were in the mood for a cold beer after our hike and ended up a Peekskill Brewery LINK. The outdoor area was perfect with picnic benches and fun games, like a VERY large Jenga and cornhole. They offer a great selection of craft beers brewed on-site.
What to take with you:
Backpack: A sturdy and comfortable backpack to carry all your hiking essentials.
Water: Stay hydrated with at least 1 liter of water per person.
Garbage Bag: Bring a small garbage bag to pack out your trash and keep the trail clean.
Snacks: Pack energy-boosting snacks like fruits, nuts, and granola bars to keep you fueled.
Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays with sunscreen.
Bug Spray: Keep pesky insects at bay with bug spray.
First Aid Kit: Carry a compact first aid kit for minor injuries and emergencies.
Long Sleeve Option: Bring a long-sleeve shirt to cover your shoulders and protect against the sun.
How to get there from New York City:
Metro-North Train: Conveniently reach Peekskill via the Metro-North Hudson Line from Grand Central Terminal. The journey takes 1 to 1.5 hours, with frequent train services.
Car: Drive via Interstate 87 (I-87) North for an approximately 1 to 1.5-hour trip, depending on traffic. Peekskill is easily accessible along the picturesque Hudson River.
Bus: Opt for direct bus routes from NYC to Peekskill, with travel times of around 1.5 to 2 hours. Check schedules in advance for availability.
Rideshare or Taxi: Enjoy a personalized and direct travel experience with rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, or hire a taxi for your journey.
