Anthony’s Nose Camp Smith: Peekskill, NY

Feel the cool, crisp air as you ascend, the scent of pine and damp earth filling your lungs, until the iconic panorama of the Hudson River and the majestic Bear Mountain Bridge explodes into view. This is the reward for conquering Anthony’s Nose Camp Smith, a beloved hiking destination that offers some of the most dramatic vistas in the Hudson Highlands. From this historic perch, you’ll gaze upon a landscape steeped in natural beauty and rich American history, a truly unforgettable outdoor experience.

Trail Specifications

Route Overview & Natural Highlights

The Anthony’s Nose Camp Smith trail winds through a classic example of the Appalachian oak-hickory forest, characteristic of the Hudson Highlands. As you climb, you’ll navigate a path that transitions from softer forest floor to rugged, rocky terrain. The geology here is dominated by ancient metamorphic rocks like granite and gneiss, sculpted over millennia, creating the steep ridges and deep valleys you’ll encounter. Keep an eye out for the vibrant green of mountain laurel and the delicate blooms of various wildflowers in spring and early summer, providing splashes of color against the forest backdrop.

The ecological richness extends beyond the flora. You might spot white-tailed deer foraging in the underbrush or hear the calls of various songbirds echoing through the canopy. Raptors, such as red-tailed hawks, frequently soar overhead, taking advantage of the thermals rising from the Hudson River valley. The primary scenic payoff, of course, is the renowned overlook at Anthony’s Nose, offering unparalleled views of the engineering marvel that is the Bear Mountain Bridge, the sprawling Bear Mountain State Park across the river, and the distant, historic grounds of West Point.

Turn-by-Turn Trail Breakdown

Trailhead start
Your adventure begins from the designated parking lot at Camp Smith. After carefully crossing Route 6/202 (a busy highway, so exercise caution), you’ll immediately encounter the blue-blazed Camp Smith Trail. The initial ascent is quite steep, a challenging but rewarding introduction to the hike. This segment primarily consists of a rocky, uphill climb, quickly gaining elevation as you leave the noise of the road behind and immerse yourself in the forest.

Mid-trail features
As you progress, the trail will present a series of switchbacks, designed to ease the steepness of the climb. You’ll navigate over exposed roots and loose rocks, so solid footing is essential. There are a few short, flatter sections that offer a welcome reprieve and a chance to catch your breath. Through breaks in the trees, you’ll begin to glimpse hints of the incredible views to come, building anticipation. The path remains generally clear, but pay attention to the blue blazes painted on trees to stay on course, especially where the trail might braid or widen.

Summit/destination & return
The final push to the summit of Anthony’s Nose involves a last, moderately steep climb. Once you emerge onto the rocky outcrop, the panoramic views will undoubtedly take your breath away. Spend time soaking in the vistas of the Hudson River, the graceful arc of the Bear Mountain Bridge, and the rugged landscape of the Hudson Highlands stretching for miles. You can identify significant landmarks like Fort Montgomery State Historic Site nestled below. After enjoying the scenery and perhaps a well-deserved snack, you’ll retrace your steps back down the same blue-blazed trail to the Camp Smith parking lot. The descent, while less strenuous aerobically, requires careful attention to foot placement due to the steep, rocky sections.

Seasonal Guide & Best Times

• Spring (April – May): Enjoy mild temperatures, the emergence of wildflowers like trillium and violets, and the fresh green of budding trees. The trail can be muddy in spots after spring rains.
• Summer (June – August): Hike early in the morning to beat the heat and humidity. The forest is lush and green, but be prepared for insects. Views remain spectacular, though haze can sometimes obscure distant horizons.
• Fall (September – November): This is arguably the prime season. Crisp air, comfortable hiking temperatures, and the truly spectacular foliage display across the Hudson Valley make for an unforgettable experience. Expect larger crowds, especially on weekends.
• Winter (December – March): For the well-prepared, winter offers stark beauty and solitude. Icy conditions are common, especially on steeper sections, so microspikes or crampons are often necessary. Views are unobstructed by leaves.

Essential Gear & Safety

• Sturdy Hiking Boots: With good ankle support and grip for the rocky terrain.
• Plenty of Water & Snacks: There are no water sources on the trail.
• Navigation Tools: A physical map or a fully charged phone with a GPS app like AllTrails is recommended. You can find more details and download the map here.
• Layered Clothing: Weather can change quickly, especially at elevation.
• First-Aid Kit: For minor scrapes or blisters.
• Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the summit is exposed.

Getting There & Parking

To reach the Anthony’s Nose Camp Smith trailhead, navigate to the parking area located directly across from the Camp Smith military installation on Route 6/202 in Peekskill, NY. If coming from the south, you’ll pass through the Bear Mountain Bridge toll plaza, and the parking area will be a short distance on your left. From the north, you’ll approach it on your right before the bridge. The small, gravel parking lot can fill up quickly, especially on pleasant weekends and during peak foliage season, so arriving early in the morning is highly recommended. There are no parking fees for this lot, but always check for any posted signage regarding hours or restrictions.

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