3 Popular Breakneck Trailheads Remain Closed for 2026

Construction Continues Around Popular Hudson Valley Hiking Trail

In March of 2025 The Hudson Highland Fjord Trail announced a big project that would affect a popular Hudson Valley hiking destination.

We learned at the time that Breakneck Ridge would be closed for 2 years- Construction would begin a few weeks after the initial announcement.

The Breakneck Connector and Bridge project is underway and according to New York Parks it will make the busy hiking destination safer for hikers and motorist alike.

Many who visit the area understand how congested the Breakneck trailhead gets during peak hiking seasons from spring until the fall. The addition of formal parking areas thanks to the project will be a huge help in the future.

READ MORE: Phase 1 of Construction is Underway for 2Year Breakneck Project

The project will bring "much-needed improvements such as restrooms and trash and recycling receptacles to the area."

You can learn more about the project and follow the progress at HHFT.org. 

3 Breakneck Hiking Trailheads Will Remain Closed For 2026

Now that the snow is melted and spring is in full swing, hiking fans are ready to hit the trails.

However, if you were planning to hike Breakneck you may want to reconsider your plans. While the construction we mentioned above is still ongoing, the trailheads at Breakneck will remained closed.

The Hudson Highland Fjord Trail states in a press release:

During construction, there is no public access to the Breakneck Ridge, Wilkinson Memorial, or Lower Brook trailheads, which will remain closed until construction is completed.

When will construction be complete?

When the project was first announced in March 2025 officials stated that it would be a 2-year project with the new and improved trailheads opening again in 2027.

Local Trails To Hike While Breakneck is Closed

2 years is a long time without your favorite trail. Thankfully, there are a handful of trails in and around the area of Breakneck that are still operational.

Hudson Highlands explain that near by trails will remain open and accessible. They write:

"Washburn/Cornish trailheads, Notch Trailhead, Little Stony Point and Mt. Beacon Trailhead will remain open and accessible to the public while construction is underway. Nearby Fahnestock State Park is a good alternate destination to avoid overcrowding and parking issues.

Take a look at some more local Hudson Valley trails to navigate this spring and summer below: