It's Now the Least-Favorite Time of Year for Hudson Valley Grumps

Spring has sprung in the Hudson Valley, and for one particular type of resident, it marks the beginning of the worst time of the year.

It's no secret that the Hudson Valley is one of the most special destinations in the country. From amazing dining experiences to the natural beauty that surrounds nearly every town and city, there's something for everybody... but some people don't want to share.

Trailhead parking lots across the Hudson Valley, NY are about to get a lot busier now that temperatures are warming (Google)

It's Hiking Season in the Hudson Valley, NY

The fuss that is about to be made (again) in the Hudson Valley revolves around the influx of day hikers that comes with every spring season. While plenty of Hudson Valley residents are aware that popular destinations like Breakneck Ridge or Minnewaska get extra-busy during the spring and summer seasons, others can't seem to contain their distain for out-of-towners.

Long-gone are the days of short lines at Minnewaska State Park during the weekends (google)

Out-of-Towners Don't Ruin Hudson Valley, NY Trails

Certain things in life are inevitable, and just like the tulips blooming or tens of thousands of glass eels swimming up the Hudson River, hikers from New Jersey, Connecticut, and New York City are guaranteed to come to the Hudson Valley to enjoy our hiking trails. It's time we all began to welcome them with open arms.

Tourism in the Hudson Valley, NY

The Hudson Valley is unique in that we don't need to sacrifice our identity in order to have a successful tourism economy. There's no plans for "Rip Van Winkle Town" or a zipline across the Hudson River (don't get any ideas, please) that would disrupt our way of life, just an ask to share the trails (and parking spots) with people that bring far more than traffic to our corner of New York.

Is the Hudson Valley Becoming "Too" Well-Known?

As a near-lifelong Hudson Valley resident, I understand that some issues are deeper than simply accepting higher hiking trail traffic. Money from New York City and beyond has helped drive up home (and Airbnb) prices, any while there aren't any over-the-top attractions in the works, many residents still feel priced out of their hometowns. But let's not conflate the two issues.

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We live in a world where two seemingly-contradicting points can both be true. Hudson Valley residents can accept weekend tourism with open arms while simultaneously defending their right to keep calling their beloved hometown home.

The 25 Absolute Best Hikes in the Hudson Valley

We've compiled a list of the 25 best hikes in the Hudson Valley. All of the hikes are of varying difficulties and lengths, so no matter your skill level or amount of time you have available there is a hike for you here.

Gallery Credit: Weston Loving