Hudson

Location: Upstate New York (about 200 miles north of New York City; about 170 miles west of Boston; about 130 miles south of Montreal).

Length of trip: 17 miles in five to six hours.

Season: Daily from April to mid-June; weekends and holidays from Labor Day weekend to Columbus Day weekend; check about summer dam releases. Weekends are busy. The water flow usually peaks between mid-April and mid-May, but dam releases maintain a constant flow all year.

Weather: Spring and fall can be cool, with temperatures ranging from 35° to 65°F (windbreakers and long underwear are recommended; you’ll need a wet suit in spring). Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 65° to 90°. Be prepared for blackflies in May and June.

Lodging: Wooded campsites along the river, as well as B&Bs, inns, hotels, and motels in the area.

Boats: Kayaks, oar boats, paddle rafts.

Rapids: Class IV and sometimes Class V from mid-April to mid-May; Class III in early spring and fall, depending on the water level. Continuous white water, with only two stretches of flat water. The cool, clear water warms up in May.

Special features:

  • Beautiful wilderness mountain gorge.
  • Ducks and great blue herons, as well as abundant but seldom-seen black bears, white-tailed deer, beavers, river otters, eagles, and falcons.
  • Excellent fishing (trout, smallmouth bass).
  • Swimming.
  • Great hiking.
  • Eye-dazzling autumn color.
  • Wilderness solitude.
  • After mid-May, suitable for first-time rafters, families, older children (check with your outfitter about age limits), and seniors in good physical condition. From April to mid-May, previous experience helps.

Nearby excursions:

  • Adirondack Park.
  • Lake George.
  • Saratoga Springs.

For a list of outfitters and more information:

  • New York State Division of Tourism, One Commerce Plaza, Albany, New York 12245; +1 518 474 4116 or 800 225 5697, fax +1 518 486 6416. Try to book at least two weeks in advance.

For more information:

  • Adirondack Park story in NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TRAVELER, July/August 1995. To order a copy, please click here.

 
 
River Finder - Eastern U.S.

 
 
 
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