Breakneck Ridge Closure Extended Through Summer as Major Safety Upgrades Continue

Yisroel R.

Hikers hoping to return to Breakneck Ridge this summer will have to wait longer, as the popular Hudson Valley trail area remains closed while a major safety project continues along Route 9D.

The Putnam County hiking destination - located directly across the Hudson River from Rockland and Orange counties and a favorite summer outing spot for many local residents - has been closed since April 2025. The work is focused on improving access to the trail and addressing safety concerns in an area where hikers, cars, parking, and train access have long created a difficult mix.

A major part of the project is aimed at keeping pedestrians off the busy highway. Many hikers who arrive by Metro-North or park nearby have had to cross Route 9D, where traffic moves quickly and visibility can be challenging. Crews are now building a separate pathway away from the road, along with a bridge that will carry trail users over the train tracks.

The upgrades will also bring new parking areas west of Route 9D, improved crosswalks, clearer signs, restrooms that meet ADA standards, garbage and recycling bins, an information kiosk, and a bike tune-up station.

Other planned improvements include a new Lower Overlook near the base of Breakneck Ridge and a full renovation of the Metro-North Breakneck Ridge station.

As part of the overall safety changes, the state Department of Transportation will reduce the speed limit in the corridor from 55 miles per hour to 40 miles per hour.