Breakneck Ridge and Wilkinson Memorial Trail via Bull Hill Loop

This route is considered difficult. The initial ascent on Breakneck Ridge is extremely strenuous, involving significant rock scrambling where you'll need to use both hands and feet. The Bull Hill Loop also presents a challenging experience with steep ascents and occasional rock scrambles, though generally less intense than Breakneck Ridge. The Wilkinson Memorial Trail offers a more gradual descent after the initial climb.

You'll experience a variety of terrain. Breakneck Ridge features very steep, rocky ledges requiring scrambling. The Bull Hill section includes woods roads, steep ascents, and some rock scrambles. The Wilkinson Memorial Trail, often used for descent, is less rocky and becomes a more gradual path. Proper footgear is essential due to potentially slippery wet rock.

The route offers numerous stunning views. From Breakneck Ridge, you'll get panoramic vistas of the Hudson River, Storm King Mountain, and Bannerman's Castle. The Bull Hill Loop also provides amazing views of the Hudson River, Storm King Mountain, Breakneck Ridge itself, and the town of Cold Spring. Don't miss the Breakneck Ridge Lookout and the Sugarloaf Mountain Viewpoint.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on trails within Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, including this route. However, due to the extreme difficulty and extensive rock scrambling on Breakneck Ridge, especially the initial ascent, it is not recommended for most dogs. If you bring a dog, ensure they are fit, experienced with difficult terrain, and always keep them on a leash.

Spring and fall are generally the best times for this hike, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be very hot and humid, while winter hiking is only recommended for experienced individuals with proper gear due to ice and snow making the scrambles extremely dangerous. Avoid hiking Breakneck Ridge in wet weather as the rocks become very slippery.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike this trail or to enter Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve. However, standard park rules and regulations apply, such as staying on marked trails and practicing Leave No Trace principles.

Parking near the Breakneck Ridge trailhead can be very limited and fills up quickly, especially on weekends. The trailhead for Breakneck Ridge has also been impacted by construction and is expected to be significantly closed until 2027. Public transportation is a highly recommended alternative; the Breakneck Ridge stop on the Metro-North Hudson Line provides direct access, though service frequency varies. Consider starting from Cold Spring and walking or taking a shuttle if available.

Yes, this route incorporates sections of several official trails. You will hike along parts of the Cornish Trail, Wilkinson Memorial Trail, Undercliff Trail, Breakneck Ridge Trail, and Washburn Trail.

Given the difficulty and length, bring plenty of water (at least 2-3 liters), sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, a map and compass or GPS device, snacks, a first-aid kit, and layers of clothing. Gloves can be helpful for the rock scrambles. Avoid cotton clothing.

Yes, you can explore the Cornish Estate Ruins (North Gate), which are remnants of a formerly majestic house. You might also encounter the Wobbly Stone, a unique natural monument. The Bull Hill Loop also features abandoned carriage roads and an old stone quarry.

This loop covers approximately 22 kilometers (13.7 miles) and typically takes around 8 hours and 20 minutes to complete. This duration accounts for the challenging terrain and significant elevation gain.