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Events on the Rail Trail

The Hudson Valley Rail Trail Association, Highland, New York, sponsors 4 major events throughout the year. All proceeds from those 4 events directly benefit the Hudson Valley Rail Trail. The money is used for: Trail maintenance, Improvements, Expansions, Grant matching funds and Publicity.

Vineyard Avenue Bridge Set

Vineyard Avenue Bridge

On Friday, July 16, the pedestrian bridge over Vineyard Avenue was set connecting the two sections of Vineyard Avenue and Commercial Avenue. A major milestone. Progress continues on the eastward expansion that will connect the Hudson Valley Rail Trail to Walkway Over the Hudson. Grand opening is scheduled for Saturday, October 2, 2010.

Learn-To-Run Program

September 11, 2010 9am

This program is designed to make a runner out of you in 10 weeks who can run 20 minutes non-stop. The program starts with modest sets of running and walking. Each week the running is gradually increased, and the walking is reduced. Qualifications to join are having the ability to walk briskly for 20 minutes, and being a member of the Hudson Valley Rail Trail Assocaiton. So far 60 individuals of all shapes and ages have graduated, much to their amazement.

Harvest MoonWalk

September 24, 2010

The Harvest Moonwalk is the only time that the Hudson Valley Rail Trail is open after dark. It starts at the Hudson Valley Rail Trail Depot at 101 New Paltz Road and goes to Tony Williams Park at Riverside Road. The walk is a 2.5 mile round-trip. Bring flashlights, but leave dogs, pets, bikes, scooters, roller blades and skate boards at home. The evening includes a bonfire and a storyteller. Donuts, popcorn and cider will be served.

Admission is $5.00 for adults; children 6 and under are free.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

October 2, 2010, 12:30pm

A celebration of the completion of the eastward expansion of the Hudson Valley Rail Trail to make its connection to Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park. After a brief ribbon cutting ceremony, attendees will be allowed to walk on the newly constructed 1.3 miles and will be treated to light refreshments in the parking area at 75 Haviland Road, Highland, NY.

Hudson Valley Rail Trail Gala - An Evening Under the Stars!

October 8, 2010, 6pm

Hudson Valley Rail Trail Gala - An Evening Under the Stars! will feature a cocktail reception on the trail followed by dinner and dancing in a beautifully decorated tent.

HudsonFest 2010

October 9, 2010, 10am to 6pm

A festival on the Hudson Valley Rail Trail to celebrate everything that the Hudson Valley has to offer with a focus on the arts, artisans, craftspeople, farmers, wineries, local restaurants, food vendors, distilleries, breweries, agribusiness, non-profits and community service organizations. Entrance to the event at 75 Haviland Road, Highland, NY.

Rail Trail Connection with Walkway 5K Race/Walk

October 16, 2010, 9am

The Hudson Valley Rail Trail Association will host a 5K race and walk beginning on the east side of the Hudson River, traveling across the Walkway Over the Hudson and continuing on the newly opened section of the Hudson Valley Rail Trail for a 5K race/walk.

WinterFest 2011

January 15, 2011

A fun family event featuring the Chili Tasting Contest that brings out the unique food tastes of our culinary region of New York State. The contest features area food establishments competing for the coveted “Best of Fest” award for the best tasting chili. The event also features a children’s tent, hay rides, ice carving demonstration, toasted marshmallows and roasted chestnuts.

Admission: $2.00 for adults; children 6 and under are free.

Breakfast on Black Creek

June 4, 2011 9am

In celebration of National Trails Day, the annual meeting of the Hudson Valley Rail Trail Association is held alongside the Black Creek Complex near the entrace at Tony Willimas Park. A continental breakfast is served to the attendees.