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Jun 11, 2016 — Breckneck Ridge is the go-to spot for New Yorkers looking for a hike away from the city, facilitated by a train stop that drops people off a half mile from the trailhead. The hike leads up the southwest ridge without summitting any actual peaks. It's all about the fun scrambling for this one. Some call this hike Class 3, but really I couldn't find any moves that made it quite that difficult or dangerous.
If you're looking to extend this hike a bit, I recommend continuing to South Beacon Mountain and checking out that trip report instead.
From the generally very crowded trailhead, head along the well-marked trail, which gives quick glance to the west toward the Hudson River before the scramble begins in earnest. Steep Class 2 on nice boulders leads to more interesting moves, including some nice slabs. The trail continues to a great overlook toward the Huson River before more fun scrambling with great views leads to the high point. From here I continued northeast, descending slightly, and then made a right and took the Notch Trail down to NY-9D. Along the way I passed some ruins, and made a short detour to check out some larger ruins just off the trail. Once I reached the highway, I hiked under the tunnel and got back to my car.
I'll let the photos speak for the scrambling since basically every single person with a website has written about this hike.
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