Day Trip from NYC: Cold Spring Guide

by Andy Honda

There's something magical about escaping the hustle and bustle of New York City for a day, especially when your destination offers fresh mountain air, scenic hiking trails, and small-town charm in abundance. Cold Spring, nestled along the Hudson River in Putnam County, provides exactly that perfect contrast to city life, all within easy reach of Manhattan. As the warm weather arrived, Koa and I embarked on a day trip to this delightful village. Below, you'll find an account of our journey along with some helpful tips for planning your own excursion.

Getting to Cold Spring: Transportation Options

One of Cold Spring's greatest assets is its accessibility from NYC. Here are the main transportation options:

  • Metro-North Railroad

    We kicked off our day bright and early by hopping on the Metro-North Hudson Line from Grand Central Terminal, and I can't recommend it enough.

    Pro tip: Snag a window seat on the left side of the train for beautiful views of the Hudson River as you head north. The journey itself becomes part of the experience as the train hugs the eastern shore of the Hudson River, offering breathtaking views of the Palisades and the river valley. The trip takes approximately 90 minutes, with trains running roughly every hour on weekends (more frequently during rush hours on weekdays). The ride is smooth, scenic, and just long enough to get you in that "I'm on vacation" mindset.

    Pro tip: Purchase your tickets through the MTA TrainTime app before boarding for a discount. Round-trip tickets cost around $30 per person off-peak, and dogs are permitted in carriers or on leash with a purchased dog ticket.

    Bonus: The Cold Spring station is located right in the village, just a short walk from Main Street and the waterfront

  • Driving

    If you prefer the flexibility of having a car, driving takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Midtown Manhattan, depending on traffic. Take the Palisades Interstate Parkway north to US-6, then continue to NY-9D which leads directly into Cold Spring.

    Parking note: On weekends, especially during peak foliage season (October) and summer months, parking can be challenging. There's a municipal lot near the train station, but it fills up quickly. Street parking is available but often limited to 2-4 hours in the central area.

Cold Spring: A Historic Hudson Valley Gem

Before diving into our activities, here are some fascinating facts about Cold Spring that enhanced our appreciation of the village:

  • Cold Spring derives its name from a local spring that provided fresh, cold water to early settlers and later to West Point Foundry workers

  • The village was founded in the early 19th century and became an industrial powerhouse during the Civil War era when the West Point Foundry produced munitions and artillery for the Union Army

  • The entire village center is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with over 200 historic buildings representing Federal, Greek Revival, and Victorian architectural styles

  • Despite being only 60 miles north of Manhattan, Cold Spring sits in the heart of the Hudson Highlands State Park, surrounded by mountains that rise dramatically from the Hudson River

  • The village maintains strict zoning laws that prohibit chain stores, helping preserve its unique small-town character and independent businesses

Our Day in Cold Spring: A Perfect Itinerary

Morning: Breakfast

We arrived on the 7:19 AM train from Grand Central, which put us in Cold Spring at 8:44 AM. Our first stop was Cold Spring Coffeehouse for breakfast. It's just a short stroll from the station on Main St. Two words: berry scones. They're perfectly sweet, with a crumbly top and fresh berries tucked into every bite. I paired mine with a strong coffee while my partner opted for a breakfast pretzel sandwich (I got the soft pretzel bun, bacon, egg, and cheese), and we were ready to hike like Hudson Valley pros.

Mid-Morning to Early Afternoon: Hiking the Hudson Highlands

After breakfast, we were ready to hit the trails. Cold Spring offers access to some of the most spectacular hiking in the Hudson Valley, with options for all skill levels. We tackled the Bull Hill Short Loop, also known as the Mount Taurus trail. It's a manageable 4.6-mile round-trip hike that rewards with stunning views of the Hudson River, West Point, and Storm King Mountain across the river. The trail offers scenic lookouts over the Hudson River and, on a clear day, you might even glimpse West Point or Storm King across the water. It's peaceful, not too crowded, and a great way to work up an appetite for lunch.

Here's what you need to know about this hike:

  • Length: ~4.6 miles roundtrip

  • Time: 2-3 hours

  • Difficulty: Moderate

  • Must Bring: Water, sunscreen, and most importantly — bug spray! (The mosquitos are ambitious and the ticks are sneaky)

*The trailhead is located about a 20-minute walk from the train station, heading north on Fair Street and continuing onto Mountain Avenue until you reach Little Stony Point parking area.

Hiking Facts and Tips:

  • The Hudson Highlands feature some of the oldest rock formations in North America, dating back over a billion years

  • The area's unique geography creates a microclimate that supports unusual plant communities, including chestnut oak forests and pitch pine barrens on the ridgetops

  • The Appalachian Trail runs through the eastern portion of the Hudson Highlands, just a few miles from Cold Spring

  • While Bull Hill is a moderate hike, nearby Breakneck Ridge is considered one of the most challenging day hikes in the New York metropolitan area

Dog-Friendly Hiking Tips:

  • Bring more water than you think you'll need – both for you and your four-legged companion. We carried a collapsible dog bowl and 1.5 liters of water just for Koa

  • Pack out all waste. The trails provide stunning natural beauty, and it's our responsibility to keep them clean. We brought several waste bags and a separate sealed container to carry used bags until we found a proper disposal site

  • Check your dog (and yourself) for ticks afterward. The Hudson Highlands are known for tick activity, particularly in spring and fall. Before heading back to the train, we took a quick tick check (a must-do after any Hudson Valley hike). Be thorough — especially around ankles, behind knees, and under clothing. It's just a smart habit after spending time in nature

  • Keep your dog leashed. While Koa is well-behaved, we kept him on a 6-foot leash for his safety and out of respect for wildlife and other hikers. The trails can have steep drop-offs and wildlife encounters are possible

  • Consider dog-appropriate footwear for longer hikes. While we didn't need them for our moderate hike, dog booties can protect paws from sharp rocks and hot surfaces on more challenging terrains

  • Bring high-protein snacks for your pup. Hiking burns a lot of canine energy. We packed some of Koa's favorite treats to keep him motivated on the uphill sections

The hike took us about 3 hours, including stops for photos, water breaks, and simply absorbing the magnificent vistas. We passed several other hikers with dogs, confirming Cold Spring's reputation as a dog-friendly destination.

Late Afternoon: Refueling and Village Exploration

After our hike, we returned to the village proper, tired but exhilarated. We headed back into town for a well-earned lunch. We stopped at Hudson Hil's Café for a late lunch. Their outdoor patio welcomed Koa, and their farm-to-table menu satisfied our post-hiking appetites with fresh, locally sourced food. Their sandwiches and salads are hearty and satisfying. The Hudson Valley Harvest Salad with local apples, goat cheese, and maple vinaigrette was particularly memorable.

Other great lunch options right on Main Street include:

  • Riverview Restaurant – A touch more upscale, with excellent river views and seafood dishes

  • Cold Spring Depot – Casual, historic, and perfect for a burger or wrap on the outdoor patio

With renewed energy, we explored the village's shops. Cold Spring's boutique shops are full of character — think antiques, handmade crafts, books, art, and adorable general stores. Don't miss:

  • Cold Spring Apothecary: A modern take on the classic apothecary, offering natural skincare products and wellness goodies.

  • The Country Goose: A quirky shop with British imports and charming gifts.

  • Split Rock Books: Small but mighty indie bookstore with a curated kids' section.

We ended our shopping excursion at the riverfront Dockside Park, where we enjoyed the spectacular views of Storm King Mountain across the Hudson. The park includes a small beach area where Koa could dip his paws in the river – a welcome cooldown after our hike.

Evening: Dinner and Return to NYC

For dinner, we chose Riverside Crafthouse (18 Market Street), which offers craft beers and elevated pub fare with outdoor seating that accommodated Koa. Their local cheese board paired with Hudson Valley beers made for the perfect end to our day.

We caught the 7:18 PM train back to Grand Central, arriving in Manhattan around 8:45 PM – tired, happy, and already planning our next visit to this charming Hudson Valley destination.

Seasonal Considerations and Additional Tips

  • Spring brings wildflowers along the hiking trails and pleasant temperatures, though be prepared for muddy conditions after rain

  • Summer offers lush green landscapes and perfect weather for swimming at Little Stony Point's small beach area

  • Fall transforms the Hudson Highlands into a spectacular display of color, making it the most popular (and crowded) season

  • Winter provides a quieter experience with the possibility of snow-covered trails and cozy café experiences in the village

Additional Tips:

  1. Cell service can be spotty on the hiking trails. Download maps before you go or pick up a trail map at the Cold Spring Visitor Center on Main Street.

  2. Many businesses in Cold Spring are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, especially during the off-season. Weekend visits ensure most shops and restaurants will be open.

  3. Bring cash. While most businesses accept credit cards, some smaller establishments and outdoor vendors are cash-only.

  4. If traveling with your dog, confirm pet policies in advance. While Cold Spring is generally dog-friendly, individual businesses set their own rules.

If you've been craving a mix of nature, small-town vibes, and berry scones that might just change your life — Cold Spring is calling. Cold Spring offers the perfect balance of outdoor adventure, historical exploration, and small-town charm—all within easy reach of New York City. Whether you're an avid hiker, a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat from urban life, this Hudson Valley gem delivers a memorable day trip experience.

Our journey—from the scenic train ride along the Hudson to the breathtaking views from Bull Hill and the delightful village exploration—left us with a renewed appreciation for the natural and historical treasures that lie just beyond the city limits. The fact that we could include our four-legged family member in the adventure made it all the more special.

So, what are you waiting for? Lace up your sneakers, grab your Metro-North pass, and plan your own Cold Spring getaway. Adventure is just 90 minutes away!

Have you visited Cold Spring or have questions about our experience? Drop a comment below! We'd love to hear about your favorite Hudson Valley day trips or answer any questions about bringing your furry friend along for the adventure.

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