Gertrude’s Nose

One of the most beautiful hikes near New York City, it offers hikers a lush trail throughout the year because of the surrounding big pine trees. Gertrude's Nose is located inside Minnewaska State Park Preserve and starts at the Millbrook Mountain Trail. It is unquestionably one of the top treks in the Hudson Valley.

This difficult but rewarding track takes hikers through a variety of difficult terrain, including steep slopes and plateaus, frequent cliff ridges where rocks must be climbed up and down, some gentler wooden sections, and portions along a cliff above rock formations. But fear not—there are many breathtaking panoramic views to inspire you in between summits.

Gertrude’s Nose trail will be marked with vivid aqua blazes close to Trapps Road Bridge, letting you know you've arrived. Once reaching the bridge, proceed up a rock trail and along rock faces until you reach Skytop Tower. Don't worry; you'll soon come across a sign instructing you to pause and take in the scenery before traveling another 3.5 miles to the crossroads that will take you to the top of Millbrook Mountain.

In order to get to Gertrude's Nose, keep walking along Gertrude's Nose Trail while keeping an eye out for red blazes as you gradually descend a hillside and pass under some power lines. Retrace your steps until you reach the intersection with the Millbrook Carrigaeway, then take the Millbrook Trail to the Coxing Trail before returning the way you came. Additionally, there is a $15.00 day use fee at this park, like with all the best treks nearby NYC.

Location: High Falls, NY
Distance: 6.7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Route: Loop
Elevation Gain: 1,141 feet
Distance from NYC: 87 miles or a 2 hour and 10 minute drive.

Rating: 4.8/5.0, 5656 Alltrails reviews