The Hudson Valley in New York state is a natural year-round destination
for all who love the great outdoors.

From its source high in the Adirondacks, the mighty Hudson flows 315 miles to the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor, past rolling hills and ancient mountains, fertile farmlands and picturesque lakes and streams.

Whether sailing on the river, driving a scenic byway, or hiking to a high
point for a breath-taking view, many of those who come to the Hudson Valley return several times to enjoy its outdoor pleasures.

The Hudson River, once a busy thoroughfare of commerce and travel, is
today much like the peaceful expanse of water enjoyed by the Native
Americans and discovered by Henry Hudson almost 400 years ago. An ideal playground for sailboats, motorboats, paddlers, and excursion cruises, it is amply served by nearly 85 marinas and launching sites.
Striking views change dramatically as the boat traveller goes upriver from the towering Palisades, through the rugged cliffs of the Hudson Highlands, past the genteel grounds of the Great Estates and into the shadow of the legendary Catskills.

Public and chartered cruises depart, May through October, from many
locations up and down the river, offering sightseeing, foliage-viewing,
historical tours and theme parties. Tubing and white-water
canoeing on the Esopus Creek are exciting pastimes for adventurers of all ages.

Whether seeking a relaxing stroll, a more rugged hike, or strenuous rock climbing, visitors can find it all in the Hudson Valley. State parks,
nature preserves, rail trails, waterfalls, caverns, and formal gardens
beckon outdoor enthusiasts, campers, picnickers, bird-watchers, artists and photographers from around the world.

Hiking, from easy walks to challenging trails, are found throughout the
region, including: the Bear Mountain Trailside Museums and Wildlife Center along the renowned Appalachian Trail; the 26-mile portion
of a monumental historic aqueduct in Old Croton Trailway State Park; the Escarpment Trail along the Catskills' eastern wall offering panoramic vistas that inspired artists of the noted Hudson River School.
Rock-climbers from the world over seek out the sparkling ridges of the
Shawangunk Mountains above New Paltz, a geological wonder known as "The Gunks." Victorian-era carriageways lead to ledges suited to every class of climber.

Mountain biking and horseback riding can be enjoyed in a variety of places including rail trails, stables, the Greenway Trail system, the Mohawk Hudson Bikeway and state parks. Twenty species of birds-of-prey find sanctuary at the Hudson Valley Raptor Center in Lafayetteville, and the region is widely recognized for bringing back the endangered Peregrine falcon and the American Bald Eagle.

Families seeking fun can find a great selection of activities in the
Hudson Valley, from one-day boat, tube, bike, or horse rentals; or holiday excursions at amusement and water parks, zoos, environmental education centers; to longer stays in state park cabins, tent or RV campsites, western-style ranches, and even farm vacations where the family can share work together.

Downhill and cross-country skiers and snowshoers can take in the best of the glorious winter landscape, whether it be at a fine resort, a state park, or along a scenic rail trail. Outdoor sport enthusiasts iceskate and indulge in snowboarding and snow tubing at countless locations in the Valley.

The Hudson and its tributary creeks and lakes are well-known lures for
fishermen and women, especially for fans of fly-fishing. Anglers have been known to catch six pound bass, as well as bullhead, perch, pickerel,and other pan fish.

Golfers can indulge their passion at dozens of excellent fairways
throughout the Valley, while those who enjoy an aerial view will enjoy
balloon rides, plane rides (even in an open cockpit bi-plane), hang gliding, and skydiving.

To obtain a Hudson Valley travel guide, call 1-800-232-4782, visit on the web at http://www.hvnet.com, http://www.travelhudsonvalley.org, http://www.hudsonriver.com, or www.iloveny.com/hudsonvalley or use the Scope reply coupons on pages 41/42, mailing it to the
Hudson Valley Tourism Development Council,
308 Clinton Avenue,
Kingston, NY 12401.

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