New York's Most Infamous Hike Is As Dangerous As It Is Breathtaking

There's a famous hiking trail in New York called Breakneck Ridge — and its name should tip you off to just how treacherous the trail can be. Breakneck Ridge is located in Hudson Highlands State Park, and based on most accounts, you won't find a harder hike in the area. However, if you're brave enough to try, you may find the amazing views worth it. Plus, what avid hiking enthusiast doesn't love testing their skills and walking away with some impressive bragging rights? 

The Breakneck Ridge Loop is 3.7 miles long, and it's easily one of the most beautiful hikes for fall foliage. It's crazy steep — you'll quickly gain over 1,200 feet of elevation hiking this route. But once you make it to the summit, you can see as far as New York City on a clear day. 

For less experienced hikers who still want amazing views from the summit of Breakneck Ridge, there are alternate routes, like the more moderate path via the Nimham Trail. We can't fault advanced hikers for wanting to get this trail notched on their hiking stick. However, people have actually died scaling to the top, so read on for tips on tackling Breakneck Ridge safely.

Preparation is everything if you're planning to tackle Breakneck Ridge. It's no average weekend stroll. You should brace yourself for a full-body workout that starts out aggressively steep. Many people refer to this as a "technical hike," meaning you'll need to tap into some of your rock-climbing skills to get through sections of the trail.

First responders often perform rescues at Breakneck Ridge because hikers attempt the trail without being fully prepared. Some of the basic things you need to keep in mind: carry plenty of water and nutritious snacks with you, as well as a map and sunscreen. Check out our ultimate guide to packing the best (and safest) hiking gear to make sure you have everything you need, including a multi-use tool — this Gerber Gear Dime 12-in-1 tool is a good example. And, of course, wear sturdy shoes. Please leave your Crocs at home and invest in some comfortable hiking boots, like these Salomon Quest 4Gtx High Rise boots.

The trail is not recommended for children or beginners. Although dogs are commonly seen on the trail, there are many places tough for them to get past without help, so prepare to be giving Fido a boost along the way if you let them tag along (although, we'd advise against it unless you're both used to completing challenging hikes together). It's advisable to go on a sunny day when there's no chance of rain, as the rocks and trail can get slippery when wet. Also, going during the week can help you avoid crowds.

It's actually super-easy to get to Breakneck Ridge from New York City, as the trailhead can be accessed from the city by train (read our visitor's guide to the New York City subway system if you are from out of town). Just grab a ticket for around $14 to $22, and hop on the Metro North for about an hour-and-a-half ride.

On the weekends, the train will drop you directly at Breakneck, but during the week, it will stop at Cold Spring, about two miles away. You can also drive directly, which takes about the same time from New York City, but keep in mind that parking spaces at the trailhead are limited.

While New York City offers easy access, the trail is only about a half hour away from New York Stewart International Airport, so hikers flying in from out of town looking to skip the city can consider that option. Check the nearby towns of Beacon and Cold Spring for accommodations closest to the trail.