Bull Hill (Mt. Taurus) II: Full Loop

Scenery:
Difficulty: 9 out of 10 (long, steep haul over a big fat mountain)
Highlights: abandoned quarry, loopishness, ruins, steep climbs, sweeping views
Distance: 5.9 miles, Loop
Approximate roundtrip time: 4.5 Hours
Total ascent: 1,522 ft
Max elevation: 1,421 ft above sea level
This hike is for you if: You’re looking for a hard climb with several great views along the way. Also, you want to visit some ruins that will make you feel better about all the home improvement projects you’ve been putting off.

Bull Hill (Mt. Taurus)

Scenery:
Difficulty: 7 out of 10 (steep climb)
Highlights: abandoned quarry, steep climbs, sweeping views
Distance: 3.6 miles, Up-and-Back
Approximate roundtrip time: 3 Hours
Total ascent: 1,350 ft
Max elevation: 1,276 ft above sea level
This hike is for you if: You want to climb a mountain (don’t let the “Hill” part of the name fool you – this is a mountain) to see some of the best views in the Hudson Valley.

Fishkill Ridge: Lambs Hill

Scenery:
Difficulty: 9 out of 10 (steep, long climb)
Highlights: dwarf pines, multiple views, open summit, steep climbs
Distance: 4.4 miles, Up-and-Back
Approximate roundtrip time: 4 Hours
Total ascent: 1,579 ft
Max elevation: 1,477 ft above sea level
This hike is for you if: You want to climb a seriously steep mountain to some unique and awesome Hudson Valley views.

Alander Mountain

Scenery:
Difficulty: 9 out of 10 (steep climb up a big ol’ mountain)
Highlights: panoramic views, steep climbs
Distance: 5.4 miles, Up-and-Back
Approximate roundtrip time: 4.5 hours
Total ascent: 1,821 ft
Max elevation: 2,234 ft above sea level
This hike is for you if: You want to climb a proper mountain to earn some amazing views.