
Little Stony Point
A scenic gem in Hudson Highlands State Park, offering stunning river views, unique caves, and varied trails just an hour from NYC.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the best light and fewer crowds.

Little Stony Point
Best Time
Catch the best light and fewer crowds.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic gem in Hudson Highlands State Park, offering stunning river views, unique caves, and varied trails just an hour from NYC.
"Gorgeous trails in the beautiful town of Cold Spring. This is the place for photos!"

🚗 Limited Parking Alert!
Arrive early, especially on weekends. Overflow parking may require a walk from town.
🥾 Choose Your Trail
Easy, moderate, and difficult options available. Tailor your hike to your preference.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 398 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hudson River Overlook
Top of the Overlook Trail
Panoramic views of the Hudson River and Bannerman Castle. Perfect for photos!

The Big Cave
Along the trails
A natural wonder offering a unique exploration spot and a cool respite.

Driftwood Beaches
Hudson River shoreline
Charming, secluded spots perfect for relaxing and enjoying the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Variety Awaits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Limited Parking Alert!
Arrive early, especially on weekends. Overflow parking may require a walk from town.
🥾 Choose Your Trail
Easy, moderate, and difficult options available. Tailor your hike to your preference.
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
Bannerman Castle views and unique rock formations make this a photographer's dream.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially for the open overlooks and beaches.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Limited Parking Alert!
Arrive early, especially on weekends. Overflow parking may require a walk from town.
🥾 Choose Your Trail
Easy, moderate, and difficult options available. Tailor your hike to your preference.
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
Bannerman Castle views and unique rock formations make this a photographer's dream.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially for the open overlooks and beaches.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, particularly during warmer months or longer hikes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Little Stony Point's stunning views of the Hudson River and Bannerman Castle, calling it a beautiful and peaceful escape. The variety of trails, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, appeals to many. However, the extremely limited parking is a frequent point of frustration, often requiring a significant walk from town.
"Gorgeous trails in the beautiful town of Cold Spring. We hiked to the Hudson then up up up to a quarry and then to a historic place called the Northgate project. Easy to moderate to difficult, one can make the hike of their choice."
Dawnita Snyder
"This is the place for photos! The trail leads to an opening where you can see Bannermans Castle from afar :)
There's a big cave and a teepee hut 🧡 We came for wedding photos.. driftwood beaches at every turn 😍 It closes at sunset though!"
Jaclyn Banach
"Super easy hike very nice. Scenery is ok Make sure you get there early because there is very limited parking. If you get there later in the morning or early afternoon you're going to have to park far away. Maybe like a half mile walk from a town parking lot."
Nick 0liver
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Little Stony Point is about an hour's drive north of NYC. You can also take the Metro-North train to Cold Spring station and then it's a short taxi or Uber ride, or a longer walk.
Yes, there is parking available, but it's very limited. It's highly recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends, as spots fill up quickly.
Follow the signs for the Overlook Trail. It's a relatively easy, flat walk for about 20 minutes (1 mile) from the parking area to reach the initial viewpoints.
While not explicitly mentioned, cycling is possible on the roads leading to the park. However, trails are generally for hiking. Check local regulations for specific bike access.
Yes, you can take the Metro-North train to Cold Spring. From there, it's a short distance to the park, though walking might be a significant trek depending on your starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Little Stony Point is part of Hudson Highlands State Park and generally offers free admission.
The park typically closes at sunset. It's always a good idea to check the official state park website for the most current hours.
There is no entrance fee to access Little Stony Point.
No, time slot bookings are not required as it's a public park with open access. However, parking can be an issue.
For casual personal photography, no special permits are usually needed. However, for professional shoots or large events, it's best to contact the park authorities.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Little Stony Point offers a variety of trails, ranging from easy, flat paths along the river to more moderate and challenging climbs up to overlooks and quarries.
Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Hudson River, Bannerman Castle, a large cave, driftwood beaches, and unique rock formations.
Yes, the easier trails are suitable for families with children. The scenic views and natural features provide an engaging experience.
While there are beaches, swimming conditions can vary. It's advisable to check local advisories for safety and regulations regarding swimming.
Typically, dogs are allowed in New York State Parks on a leash. Always confirm with the park's specific rules before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The main overlook offers fantastic views of Bannerman Castle. The driftwood beaches and the cave also provide unique photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the best lighting for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive river views. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or capturing long exposures of the water.
Drone usage in state parks is often restricted or requires special permits. It's best to check with the New York State Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation for current regulations.
Fall offers vibrant foliage, while summer provides lush greenery and clear river views. Spring can be beautiful with blooming flora.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit