Hudson River, Appalachian Trail

The Hudson River stretches approximately 315 miles (507 km), flowing from the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York to the Upper New York Bay near Manhattan.  Named after English explorer Henry Hudson, who sailed up the river in 1609, it later became an essential route for trade and exploration.

During the American Revolutionary War, the Hudson played a crucial role as a strategic waterway for military movements.  It also enabled the growth of New York City into a major trading hub and continues to support commercial shipping today. 

In the 19^th century, the river’s scenic beauty inspired the Hudson River School, a group of landscape artists whose works reflected themes of discovery, exploration, and settlement in America.  Washington Irving, author of the Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Rip Van Winkle, also drew inspiration from the river’s shores.  Additionally, the Hudson remains a vital resource, providing drinking water to millions, including New York City residents.