One of the many advantages of living at Mountainside Woods is having the natural beauty, recreation, dining, and culture of the Hudson Valley close to home. Located at 2 Benjamin Drive in Highland, New York, the community offers a peaceful setting at the foot of Illinois Mountain while remaining convenient to some of the area’s most popular destinations.
Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, visiting local farms, exploring historic towns, or simply relaxing with beautiful river views, there is always something nearby to experience.
Walk Across the Hudson River
The Walkway Over the Hudson is one of the most recognizable attractions in the Hudson Valley, and Mountainside Woods is located only about one mile away.
Stretching 1.28 miles across the Hudson River and standing 212 feet above the water, the Walkway is the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge. It is open to walkers, runners, cyclists, and anyone who wants to enjoy panoramic views of the river and surrounding mountains. The park also hosts community events and seasonal programs throughout the year. New York State Parks
Walk or Bike the Hudson Valley Rail Trail
The Hudson Valley Rail Trail offers a convenient place for walking, jogging, biking, and spending time outdoors. This paved trail travels through Highland and connects directly with the Walkway Over the Hudson.
Its smooth surface makes it enjoyable for a morning walk, an afternoon bike ride, or a leisurely outing with friends and family. It also provides access to the larger Empire State Trail network, allowing more adventurous cyclists and walkers to explore well beyond Highland.
Living at Mountainside Woods makes it easy to incorporate fresh air and exercise into your everyday routine.
Explore Franny Reese State Park
For a more wooded hiking experience, visit Franny Reese State Park. The 251 acre park features more than 2.5 miles of hiking and biking trails that follow historic carriage roads through the forest.
Along the way, visitors can see stone walls, the ruins of a nineteenth century estate, and scenic overlooks with views of the Hudson River, the Mid Hudson Bridge, and Poughkeepsie. A connecting trail also leads to the Walkway Loop Trail and the Walkway Over the Hudson. New York State Parks
Visit Local Farms and Orchards
Highland is surrounded by farms and orchards that celebrate the agricultural character of the Hudson Valley. DuBois Farms is a popular destination for picking seasonal fruit, shopping for local products, and enjoying family activities.
Depending on the season, residents can pick apples, peaches, nectarines, grapes, and other locally grown produce. Fall brings apple picking and colorful foliage, while spring and summer offer fresh fruit, outdoor activities, and beautiful countryside views.
Wilklow Orchards is another nearby favorite offering seasonal produce, apples, baked goods, cider, and other local treats.
Discover Hudson Valley Wineries and Cideries
The Hudson Valley is one of the country’s oldest wine producing regions, with a variety of wineries, tasting rooms, and cideries located throughout Ulster County.
Benmarl Winery in nearby Marlboro sits on a hillside overlooking the Hudson Valley. The property is known for its scenic setting, locally produced wines, and seasonal events. Fjord Vineyards and Bad Seed Cider also give residents and visitors more ways to experience the region’s craft beverage culture.
These destinations are ideal for a relaxing afternoon, a gathering with friends, or an enjoyable weekend outing close to home. Travel Hudson Valley
Spend the Day in New Paltz
The lively community of New Paltz is a short trip from Highland and offers locally owned restaurants, cafes, shops, galleries, and cultural attractions.
Stroll along Main Street, browse the shops at Water Street Market, or visit Historic Huguenot Street to learn about the area’s early history. The town is also home to SUNY New Paltz and hosts arts, music, and community events throughout the year.
New Paltz combines the energy of a college town with the natural beauty and historic character of the Hudson Valley.
Hike the Shawangunk Mountains
Outdoor enthusiasts can venture farther into the Shawangunk Mountains, commonly known as the Gunks. Mohonk Preserve and Minnewaska State Park Preserve offer remarkable landscapes filled with forests, cliffs, carriage roads, lakes, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks.
Visitors can hike, bike, climb, picnic, snowshoe, and enjoy the landscape during every season. From spring wildflowers to brilliant autumn foliage, the scenery is always changing.
Enjoy Local Dining in Highland
You do not have to travel far to enjoy a good meal. Highland and the surrounding communities offer everything from casual cafes and pizza to farm inspired dining and elevated American cuisine.
The Ridge by Mill House in Highland offers American cuisine in a refined but welcoming setting. Residents can also explore restaurants across the river in Poughkeepsie or head into New Paltz for an even wider selection of cuisines, coffee shops, and locally owned eateries. The Ridge by Mill House
Explore Poughkeepsie and the Waterfront
Just across the Hudson River, Poughkeepsie offers additional restaurants, shopping, entertainment, museums, and waterfront destinations.
Spend an afternoon along the river, visit the Mid Hudson Discovery Museum with younger family members, or enjoy a meal overlooking the water. The Poughkeepsie Metro North station also provides convenient rail service for trips to New York City.
Experience Every Season in the Hudson Valley
Life near Mountainside Woods offers something special throughout the year.
Spring brings blooming orchards and pleasant days on the trails. Summer is perfect for farmers markets, outdoor dining, festivals, and riverfront activities. Fall fills the mountains with color and brings apple picking, cider, and harvest celebrations. Winter creates opportunities for peaceful hikes, snowshoeing, skiing, and relaxing evenings at home.
Find Your Home at Mountainside Woods
Mountainside Woods offers more than a beautiful new homes in Hudson Valley. It provides access to an entire Hudson Valley lifestyle.
From scenic hiking trails and river views to farms, wineries, restaurants, and historic destinations, residents can enjoy a peaceful neighborhood with memorable experiences just beyond their front door.
Visit Mountainside Woods at 2 Benjamin Drive in Highland, New York, and discover what it means to live close to everything you love about the Hudson Valley.
Call: 845 270 8770
Email: info@mountainsidewoods.com
