long dock park at beacon waterfront with the hudson river to its right — Scenic Hudson’s Long Dock Park.

Although most people consider Beacon a small town, it’s technically a city. But don’t let that fool you—there’s plenty of great outdoors to enjoy here, particularly since this city is nestled between a majestic mountain and an epic river. So many restaurants and shops—and so much arts and culture—in such close proximity to stunningly beautiful nature is one of the main reasons Beacon is a fantastic place to live and visit. Whether you’re a local or a day tripper, it can be tough deciding where to start.

Here’s a few of our favorites:

Mount Beacon

During the Revolutionary War, the Americans lit signal fires atop Mount Beacon to warn of British invasion, and the Mount Beacon Incline Railway brought guests up to a hotel and casino on its peak for most of the 20th century. Nowadays, Mount Beacon (1600 feet), located on the eastern edge of town, is best known as a prime hiking destination. Whether you take the trail off Wolcott Avenue or the one from Pocket Road, you’ll instantly be immersed in deep, green forest sprinkled with glacial rocks and cool, flowing streams. That’s not to mention the views of the Hudson River and the Highlands from the top are simply breathtaking.

Long Dock Park

On the other side of Beacon, adjacent to the mighty Hudson River and near the MTA train station, is Long Dock Park which is comprised of marshy wetlands, a meadow filled with wild grasses and flowers, walking trails, a dock often used for fishing, and a beach strewn with rocks and driftwood carved by the water into intricate sculptures. Long Dock is perfect for those seeking an easy hike, a jog, a place to walk the dog, spectacular views of Storm King Mountain, birdwatching, and even kayaking on the Hudson River using your own kayak (some storage available) or renting one from Hudson River Expeditions. It’s hard to imagine Long Dock Park was the site of an oil terminal salt-storage facility and a junkyard not so long ago. It’s now a prime destination for nature-lovers, thanks to Scenic Hudson.

Beacon Waterfront

Just north of Long Dock Park, the Beacon Waterfront offers unmissable opportunities to take to the water and experience the stunning Hudson River close-up courtesy of Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, Beacon Sloop Club, and the impressively inexpensive way to cross the river—the Newburgh-Beacon Ferry. The ferry runs Monday to Friday on a peak hours’ schedule for just $1.75 each way. Time it right, and you’ll catch one of our spectacular Hudson River sunsets. And don’t forget there’s a ferry to Bannerman Island on which stands the famous Bannerman castle in summer and fall.

Dennings Point

Follow the Klara Sauer Trail from Long Dock Park south along the Hudson to Dennings Point. The wooded 64-acre peninsula in Hudson Highland State Park curls like a finger from the mainland into the river. Once inhabited by Native Americans and Dennings Point Brick Works years later, Dennings Point now features a loop trail that affords excellent views of the Hudson. Its inlet is home to birds including blue herons, bald eagles, and cormorants, and a wide variety of fish you can sometimes see jumping and splashing like kids in a wading pool.

Here you’ll also find Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries, a research facility that is part of Clarkson University and has exhibits and activities open to the public. And don’t forget to look down as you wander Dennings Point. Otherwise, you might miss seeing the old Dennings Point Brick Works bricks identified by the unmistakable “DPBW” trademark—each a reminder of and testament to the history of this special place.

Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park

river pool at beacon in the hudson river on a sunny day — The seasonal River Pool is a locals’ favorite.

Speaking of peninsulas, don’t forget to visit Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park just beyond the MTA train station. Named for and dedicated to legendary folk singer and environmentalist, Pete Seeger, and his wife, Toshi, this lovely park that extends out into the Hudson not only hosts all kinds of festivals, it also affords sweeping views of the river and the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge. The park also features the River Pool in the summer months for those who want to take a dip in the river and basketball courts for those wishing to hone their shooting skills. Kids will undoubtedly enjoy the mini playground complete with swings and monkey bars.

Fishkill Creek Greenway Trail

After being mesmerized by the Fishkill Overlook Falls, you might want to stroll the recently completed section of the Fishkill Creek Greenway Trail that starts behind the 1 East Main Street building. This easy, tranquil walkway runs along Churchill Street and Creek Drive and hugs the western bank of the Fishkill Creek as far as Wolcott Avenue. Nothing more calming than listening to the gurgling and babbling creek as it flows toward its rendezvous with the mighty Hudson.

The Beacon Pool

A recent article in The Atlantic Magazine laments the decline of public pools in America. Happily, Beacon bucks that trend. Located in the Park at Settlement Camp (724 Wolcott Avenue), the 140 foot x 50 foot Beacon Pool is a pristine, perfectly maintained gem for Beacon residents on hot summer days. Open from July 1st to September 1st, the Beacon Pool only costs $20 per season for a household and $10 per season for an individual (for residents). Infants are free! There are two swimming sessions a day (Mon-Fri: 1:15pm – 3:15pm and 3:30pm – 6:00pm; Sat & Sun: 11:00am – 1:00pm and 1:15pm to 3:15pm). Visits must be booked online in advance. A perfect place to cool off after playing a round of disc golf right there in the camp!

So, after all that fresh air and activity, you might find yourself a little peckish. If you do, check out our Eat & Drink Directory for ideas on where to refuel and refresh.

Did we miss your favorite Beacon outdoor experience? Send us your suggestion here.

Until next time…

The Beacon Beacon 🧡

Experience the great outdoors in Beacon, NY