Breakneck Ridge: Short Loop
A technical climb to a series of beautiful overlooks.
Hiking Extreme
- Distance
- 4.9 km
- Ascent
- 383 m
- Descent
- 383 m
- Duration
- 1-2 hrs
- Low Point
- 4 m
- High Point
- 366 m
- Gradient
- 17˚
Breakneck Ridge is a popular but strenuous and technically-challenging hike that leads to a gorgeous overlook of the Hudson River and the Hudson Highlands. The loop shown here is the shortest and most popular option on Breakneck Ridge, which reaches a few stunning overlooks on the ridge before looping back down to the river.
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Description
The ascent up the ridge is steep and technical, requiring arduous scrambling up a never-ending series of boulders. In some places, the ridgeline is quite exposed, too. While this exposure opens up gorgeous views, hikers with a fear of heights should proceed cautiously. On the flip side, if you're sick of hiking mellow trails that simply wind through the woods, consider tackling Breakneck Ridge as a truly challenging climb!
Note: At the time of this writing, the trailhead is currently closed for renovation from March 1, 2023, to July 1, 2023. It should reopen after that time.
Sources: https://www.travelingfoundlove.com/hiking-breakneck-ridge/ https://triptins.com/breakneck-ridge-hike/
Difficulty
Extreme
Scrambling up mountains and along technical trails with moderate fall exposure. Handholds are necessary to navigate the trail in its entirety, although they are not necessary at all times. Some obstacles can be very large and difficult to navigate, and the grades can often be near-vertical. The challenge of the trail and the steepness of the grade results in very strenuous hiking. Hikes of this difficulty blur the lines between "hiking" and "climbing".
High Exposure
Some trail sections have exposed ledges or steep ascents/descents where falling could cause serious injury.
Remoteness
Away from help but easily accessed.
Features
- Picturesque