Twenty-six mile Harlem Valley Rail Trail beckons

With sunny days and blue skies overhead, the Harlem Valley Rail Trail is calling all nature lovers. The Millerton entrance is located next to the Irondale Schoohouse on Main Street with parking in a lot around the corner on south Center Street.

There is no charge for the 26-mile paved trail, which is open from dawn until dusk.

According to Executive director of the Harlem Valley Rail Trail association Lisa DeLeeuw, trail regulations are simple and basically follow general “rules for the road.” They may be found at hvrt.org under Usage at the About tab.

Courtesy involving littering, noise and disruption of wildlife or the environment is based on common sense with fire, camping and alcoholic beverages banned.

Animals are permitted, but owners are expected to clean up after them.

Electric mobility wheelchairs and Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are permitted, but horses and “motorized vehicles” are not.

For the convenience of trail users, portable toilets are available in Millerton, Coleman Station, Amenia and Wassaic.

If trail users notice any problems such as downed limbs or necessary work, they may contact DeLeeuw through the website above or call the Dutchess County Parks at 845-298-4611. Emergency calls can be made to 911.

The Trail is supported by a combination of public and private funds, and DeLeeuw says, “We always need matching funds for our projects.” She notes a ‘Bridge to Nature’ is currently being developed and will eventually provide a “series of nature and history signs that will be right at the trail head by the double bridge by the Railroad Plaza.”

Deleeuw reminds visitors that the Columbia County section from Undermountain Road in Ancram to Rt. 344 is closed for reconstruction.