Hook Mountain At Rockland Lake State Park, New York

Above: The Hudson River, looking North-East from the top of Hook Mountain

If you ever find yourself in Rockland County, New York (about an hour's bus ride North-West from Manhattan) and would like to take the family or yourself on a little hike, I truly recommend that you visit Rockland Lake State Park and take a little hike up Hook Mountain to enjoy an amazing view of the Hudson River. It is true, the hike up the mountain, while not long would be difficult for young children or anyone who isn't a bit nimble, though not to worry, there is lovely stroll down the hill to the river, that I'll share with you in a moment.

And not only is there some great nature to enjoy, there is history as well, as Rockland Lake used to supply New York City with ice, before refrigerators that is! Blocks of ice were taken from the lake and sent down the river to the big apple, imagine that? As far as crowds, yes, the lake itself was packed, but we only saw a few folks on our hike up the mountain, and down it as well, and this was on a Sunday, so you can count on pretty much having this lovely spot all to yourself.

You can't tell this from the photo, but this is actually a cliff-top location, so if you take young children with you, do put them on leashes, seriously! (Or better yet, maybe leave them at the bottom of the mountain, cilffs are wonderful, wow, but a little scary with those who might want to peak over!)

Here is the lovely view looking down the Hudson River, towards New York City, and you can just see the new Tappanzee Bridge, (or maybe its Tappan Zee? Can't check at the moment on account of a new wicked internet filter that has even got google leashed.)

Enjoyed that view and scrambling up and down the mountain on a trail that is marked, sort of? Now take a walk down the road, with strollers if you like, or bikes, down to the Hudson River shore!

Ahhh, water, and even drift wood, which of course I couldn't resist!

Nice right?

This was our last outing before flying back to Israel after a month plus in Canada and New York, and while not as stunning as some of our adventures in the Adirondacks, for example, it is certainly much much more accessible, and a great day trip. I'lll end this post by say that having lived in New York City for ten years, once upon a time, (before marriage and kids) I do love the Hudson River, and I think you will too!