From the Hudson Valley to the Hall of Fame

A popular Hudson Valley attraction is now in the a Hall of Fame.

Rail-trail supporters from the Hudson Valley helped inducted the Dutchess Rail Trail into the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Rail-Trail Hall of Fame. The Dutchess Rail Trail is the 30th Hall of Fame selection, receiving almost 54% of the votes in a nationwide poll.

“Thank you to all those who voted for our Dutchess Rail Trail, along with the Walkway Over the Hudson and Hudson Valley Rail Trail, to be part of the 2016 Rail-Trail Hall of Fame! Dutchess Rail Trail has been a destination for thousands since the first phase opened, as people flock to enjoy the scenic views, the quiet and tranquility, as well as the easy-to-navigate surface along the 13-mile path,” Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro said in a statement. “Together with the Walkway Over the Hudson and Hudson Valley Rail Trail, we have created an 18-mile-plus world-class treasure that has no equal.”

The Dutchess Rail Trail is a 13-mile multi-use park that runs through the middle of the County along the former Maybrook Rail corridor including the towns of Poughkeepsie, LaGrange, Wappinger and East Fishkill, with a direct link to the Walkway Over the Hudson and the regional trail network.

The popular Hudson Valley Trail Network covers 18 miles and connects three rail-trails, stretching from Highland, over the Hudson River and through Poughkeepsie, to Hopewell Junction.

“The way that the Hudson Valley Trail Network seamlessly connects three unique trails is a prime example of how integrated trail systems can produce important benefits for communities—for transportation, tourism and economic development,” said Rails-to-Trails Conservancy President Keith Laughlin. “We’re thrilled to induct the Hudson Valley Trail Network as our 30th Hall of Fame rail-trail.”

With the Hall of Fame honor the Hudson Valley Trail Network will receive national publicity, trail signage, coverage in Rails to Trails magazine and an unveiling event.