Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Explore 1,800 acres of rolling hills, serene lakes, and Hudson River vistas on historic carriage roads.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak fall foliage colors
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Best Time
Peak fall foliage colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 1,800 acres of rolling hills, serene lakes, and Hudson River vistas on historic carriage roads.
"Beautiful park with wide trails and scenic views, perfect for a peaceful escape."
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The wide, gravel carriage roads are easy to walk, but comfortable footwear is key for longer hikes.
🐶 Leash Your Dogs
Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash at all times. Remember to clean up after them!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Carriage Roads
Throughout the preserve
Explore miles of wide, well-maintained carriage roads perfect for walking, jogging, or horseback riding.
Hudson River Overlooks
Rockwood Hall entrance
Enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Hudson River, especially stunning during sunrise or sunset.
Lakes and Ponds
Various locations
Discover serene lakes and ponds scattered throughout the preserve, offering peaceful reflections and wildlife spotting.
Old-Growth Forest
Big Tree Loop
Walk through a section of the Old-Growth Forest Network, a testament to the preserve's natural heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Peak Foliage
Dog-Friendly Trails & Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The wide, gravel carriage roads are easy to walk, but comfortable footwear is key for longer hikes.
🐶 Leash Your Dogs
Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash at all times. Remember to clean up after them!
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera to photograph the stunning fall foliage, serene lakes, and Hudson River vistas.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially on longer hikes, as amenities can be spread out within the preserve.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The wide, gravel carriage roads are easy to walk, but comfortable footwear is key for longer hikes.
🐶 Leash Your Dogs
Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash at all times. Remember to clean up after them!
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera to photograph the stunning fall foliage, serene lakes, and Hudson River vistas.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially on longer hikes, as amenities can be spread out within the preserve.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Download trail maps beforehand to navigate easily.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Rockefeller State Park Preserve for its beautiful, well-maintained wide trails, making it ideal for easy to moderate hikes and dog walking. The scenic views, including lakes and Hudson River overlooks, are a major highlight, especially during the fall. Some find certain trails less scenic, describing them as more like gravel roads, but the overall consensus is a peaceful and refreshing natural escape.
"Beautiful park with wide trails and scenic views
We visited Rockefeller State Park Preserve on October 26, 2025 for a fall hike and foliage watching. We originally planned to do the easy Brook, David, and Swan Lake Loop (3.6 miles) starting from the Visitor Center, but due to a mis-tap on the AllTrails app, we ended up on the larger, moderate Rockefeller Park Preserve Loop :) We cut it a slightly near the end, but still got a solid 5.5-mile walk. Afterwards, we drove to Rockwood Hall entrance and walked part of the trail overlooking the Hudson River.
The park is beautiful, with wide, well-groomed trails that are easy to walk and suitable for all ages. The views were gorgeous, though to our surprise, the foliage was mostly green, except for one small area at peak color - despite online reports showing the entire park at peak. Go figure. Panoramic views along the main loop and across the Hudson were still mostly green. It’s unclear whether we arrived too early or if it’s just the type of trees in the park.
Either way, the park is fantastic for easy and moderate hikes, and we’ll definitely be back."
beldim2010
"Beautiful park with peaceful trails
Rockefeller State Park Preserve is a wonderful place to walk and enjoy nature. The trails are well-maintained and offer lovely scenery with lakes and gentle hills. Unfortunately, by the time we visited, most of the fall leaves had already fallen, so we missed the peak color — but it was still a very pleasant and refreshing experience. Definitely worth visiting, especially earlier in the fall season for the full foliage display!"
Nan Kebab
"Gorgeous mostly paved/cleared trails through the woods, where you pass cows, horses, ponds. Dog-friendly. Such a good spot to come after a day of rain since most hiking trails are rained out/muddy, but not here! Totally coming back.
5 stars!!!!"
Bonnie Gleicher
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rockefeller State Park Preserve is about thirty miles north of NYC. You can drive there via the Saw Mill River Parkway or Taconic State Parkway. Public transportation options are limited, but you can take a Metro-North train to Tarrytown or Pleasantville and then a taxi or rideshare to the preserve.
Yes, there are parking lots available at the preserve. The main parking area is near the Visitor Center. Parking fees may apply, especially during peak seasons.
Biking is permitted on the carriage roads, which are wide and well-maintained, making for a pleasant cycling experience.
Many of the carriage roads are wide and relatively flat, making them accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. However, some sections may have inclines.
From NYC, take the Saw Mill River Parkway North to Exit 29 for NY-117 West towards Pleasantville. Turn right onto NY-117 W, then turn right onto Bedford Road. The preserve entrance will be on your left. Alternatively, use GPS for precise directions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Rockefeller State Park Preserve is generally free. However, parking fees may be charged, especially during peak times or weekends. It's always a good idea to check the official park website for the most current information on fees.
The preserve is typically open daily from dawn to dusk. Specific hours for facilities like the Visitor Center may vary, so it's best to check their official website before your visit.
While not always advertised, special events and guided walks are sometimes offered, particularly for groups like the Girl Scouts. Keep an eye on their website or local event listings for opportunities.
Yes, horseback riding is permitted on designated carriage roads. Ensure your horse is properly cared for and that you follow all park regulations.
There is no separate entrance fee for dogs. As long as they are on a leash and you clean up after them, they are welcome to enjoy the preserve with you.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The wide carriage roads are excellent for easy to moderate hikes. Popular routes include the Brook, David, and Swan Lake Loop, or combining trails like Brother's Trail to Farm Meadow. The Big Tree Loop is notable for its old-growth forest.
You might spot various birds, deer, and if you're lucky, even cows and horses grazing in the meadows. The preserve's diverse habitats support a range of wildlife.
Restroom facilities are available, typically located near the Visitor Center and other key access points. It's advisable to check the park map for their exact locations.
Fall is spectacular for foliage, typically from mid-October to early November. Spring and summer offer lush greenery, while winter provides a stark, peaceful beauty.
Picnicking is a popular activity. There are designated areas, and the open meadows and scenic spots make for a lovely outdoor meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The Hudson River overlooks, serene lakes, and the vibrant fall foliage are prime photography subjects. The historic bridges and open meadows also offer picturesque scenes.
Absolutely. The rolling hills, expansive meadows, and distant river views provide excellent opportunities for landscape photographers.
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most flattering light for photography, enhancing the natural beauty of the preserve.
Drone usage is typically restricted in New York State Parks to ensure safety and preserve the natural environment. It's best to check the park's specific regulations regarding drones.
The views from Rockwood Hall overlooking the Hudson River and the reflections in the various lakes are often considered iconic. The Big Tree Loop also offers unique photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for opportunities like scavenger hunts or nature crafts, which are sometimes organized, especially for youth groups like the Girl Scouts. The chance to see farm animals like cows and horses can also be a big hit with younger visitors. Pack a picnic to make a full day of it, and enjoy the natural beauty in a safe and accessible environment.
🐶 Dog Owners
📸 Photographers
Don't miss the dramatic vistas from the Hudson River overlooks, especially during the fall when the foliage is at its peak. The historic bridges and the tranquil reflections in the water also make for stunning shots. Whether you're into landscapes, nature, or even candid shots of people enjoying the outdoors, this preserve is a photographer's dream.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Legacy of Conservation: The Rockefeller Family's Gift
The preserve features a network of over 15 miles of historic carriage roads, originally designed for horseback riding and leisurely drives. These wide, well-maintained paths now serve as ideal routes for hiking, jogging, and cycling, allowing visitors to explore the diverse landscapes without disturbing the natural environment. The inclusion of the Big Tree Loop within the Old-Growth Forest Network highlights the preserve's ecological importance and its role in protecting mature woodlands.
Visitors can experience a variety of ecosystems, from dense woodlands and open meadows to serene lakes and dramatic overlooks of the Hudson River. The presence of farm animals like cows and horses adds a unique pastoral charm to the landscape, further enhancing the feeling of stepping back in time. This blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and thoughtful land management makes Rockefeller State Park Preserve a truly special destination.
Navigating the Trails: A Hiker's Guide
Popular routes include the Brook, David, and Swan Lake Loop, offering a moderate 3.6-mile walk with scenic water views. For a longer excursion, the Rockefeller Park Preserve Loop can extend to over 5.5 miles. Many visitors enjoy combining different sections to create custom hikes, such as linking Brother's Trail to Farm Meadow and then to Overlook.
It's worth noting that while the trails are generally well-maintained, some sections can be more exposed than others. The preserve is also a fantastic option for a hike after a rain, as the gravel surfaces tend to drain well, avoiding the mud often found on traditional dirt trails. Always wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and consider downloading an offline map, as cell service can be inconsistent.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit