Dutchess County Rail Trail is a perfect way to spend some time hiking, biking, cross country skiing and just plain old enjoying an outing. And why not? What better way to soak up the natural and historic splendor of Dutchess County.
The Rail Trail is a 13 mile linear county park, designed for mixed use, that runs through Dutchess County from Hopewell Junction to the Walkway Over The Hudson in Poughkeepsie NY. The rail trails can be used during sunrise to sunset hours. The rail trail is not plowed during the winter season and can be utilized for winter sporting activities such as snowshoeing, winter hiking, and x country skiing.
Yes, dogs are allowed on the Rail Trail. Your fur baby can’t run loose and must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Of course you have to clean up after your pet.
Groups or organizations who wish to hold special events on the Dutchess Rail Trail can call the Parks main office at 845-298-4600 for an application. Permit requires a fee and submission of required insurance. No horses or motorized vehicles are permitted, with the exception of electric mobility wheelchairs.
Dutchess Rail Trail Rules:
- Park in designated areas
- Trail open dawn to dusk.
- All groups who wish to use the trail for ANY special event or activity must submit a Special Usage Permit request from the Parks Division and submit the required fee and insurance before any event will be permitted.
- Please be courteous and considerate of other trail users.
- Stay to the right.
- Travel at a reasonable and controlled speed.
- Announce “on your left” then pass with care.
- Bicyclists must wear a helmet.
- This is a “Carry In/Carry Out” park – NO LITTERING
- Dogs must be leashed on a maximum 6 foot long leash
- Clean up after your pet.
- Stop and dismount at all road crossings
- No alcoholic beverages, camping or fires allowed on the trail.
- No motorized vehicles are permitted including Segways or Hover Boards.
- Please respect private property.
- No hunting on the trail
- No cutting or removing of vegetation
- Do not disturb or feed any wildlife
- Smoking is prohibited in ALL Dutchess County Parks
- Horses are not permitted.