Alander Mountain Trail — Attraction in Mount Washington

I don’t get it. Checked out this trail because it was featured in Top 20 Hudson Valley hikes and it was just meh. Well marked and definitely moderate as some areas are very steep. However, there wasn’t anything exciting along the trail. We did not see any wildlife except chipmunks. Very muddy in many areas. When we got to the top, yes it was beautiful, but it looked like a valley of trees everywhere without that “WOW” factor. I can see it being more beautiful once the trees are all different colors, but as of right now, it just didn’t leave any lasting impressions. My sister and I were both disappointed in this hike. We looked at the bright side of just getting to spend the day together. However, we both agreed we’d never do it again nor recommend it and don’t understand why it was featured in the top 20. TIP: go use the restroom somewhere before arriving. There is a Dunkin about 20 mins away. No kind of restrooms at trailhead. We had no cell reception at trailhead so plan accordingly if you want to try and find a place before you arrive. Trail wasn’t crowded at all; passed a few people here and there but mostly open and we went...

This is an enjoyable trail, never very steep, that passes through forest along rushing streams. An old logging road, I think. You’ll pass the historic fire tower hut just below the summit where the foundation of the long-gone fire tower stands. The views from atop Alander Mountain are spectacular. The trail connects with the main Taconic Trail and can be part of a loop with excursions to Brace Mountain, the tri-state boundary marker (for NY, MA, and CT), and...

5.8 mi moderate out-and-back trail There are rattlesnakes large, free parking lot (they have a box for donations) one porta-potty at the entrance near the trail headquarters There is an old cabin near the top with some art left from past hikers...