Maybrook Trailway

The trailway is primarily an 8 to 10-foot-wide, asphalt-paved path. Built on a former railroad bed, the terrain is generally flat with only slight, gradual inclines and declines, making it suitable for a wide range of users.

You can access the trail at various points. A notable northern access point is at the beautifully restored Hopewell Depot in Hopewell Junction, which also serves as a museum. Parking is generally available at these designated trailheads.

Yes, its generally flat, asphalt-paved surface makes it very accessible and suitable for hikers of all ages and abilities, including families with children. It's an easy and comfortable trail for walking and running.

The trail winds through diverse and picturesque scenery, including abundant wooded areas, rural landscapes, and natural swamp areas. You'll encounter views of three distinct bodies of water: Tonetta Lake, Ice Pond, and Whaley Lake, with long stretches running alongside the latter. Seasonal waterfalls and dramatic rock cuts also add to the scenic appeal.

The trail is enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer beautiful foliage and the chance to see seasonal waterfalls. In winter, its flat surface makes it suitable for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. The remote nature of the trail provides a quiet experience in any season.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail's natural beauty for all users.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access and enjoy the Maybrook Trailway.

Yes, it's a vital link in the larger Empire State Trail. It also connects to other significant paths like the William R. Steinhaus Dutchess Rail Trail and the Putnam Trailway. At one point, it even intersects with the renowned Appalachian Trail.

It's a unique 'rail with trail' conversion, repurposing a portion of Metro-North Railroad's former Beacon Line, running alongside an inactive track. This allows access to remote areas. It also passes by historic sites like Ice Pond, where ice was once harvested, and the Hopewell Depot, a restored former station house.

Due to its remote nature and passage through wooded areas and wetlands, the trail offers opportunities for wildlife spotting. You can often hear and see various bird species, and other local wildlife may be present.

Beyond the scenic views of Whaley Lake, Ice Pond, and Tonetta Lake, you'll find the historic Hopewell Depot at the northern end. The trail itself, known as the Maybrook Trailway, is a highlight, offering a journey through diverse landscapes and even a section through the wetlands.