Top recreational parks in Highland, New York

Franny Reese State Park, located on Macks Lane in Highland, New York, is a 251-acre park named after the dedicated conservationist Frances "Franny" Reese. Managed by Scenic Hudson and owned by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, this park offers visitors a chance to explore a bluff-top forest with trails following a historic carriage road. The park also features ruins of a 19th-century estate and an overlook with stunning views of the Mid-Hudson Bridge and Walkway Over the Hudson. In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, special events and group outings at the park must be pre-approved. Visitors are encouraged to fill out a form and coordinate with Anthony Coneski to ensure the health and safety of all guests.

Located at 788 Wolcott Avenue in Beacon, New York, the Mount Beacon Scenic Hudson Parking Lot is a 15-acre park offering stunning views and recreational opportunities. The park features a steep trail up Mount Beacon with switchbacks to make the workout manageable. Visitors can follow the course of the Beacon Incline Railway on a staircase that leads to observation platforms offering a preview of the panoramic vista at the summit. At the top of Mount Beacon, visitors can climb the South Mount Beacon fire tower for an even more spectacular view of the Hudson Highlands and Catskill Mountains. The park also offers two free electric vehicle charging stations for park users. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, all special events and group outings must be pre-approved.