20 Attractions to Explore Near Harlem Valley Rail Trail

Taconic State Park – Rudd Pond Area is a beautiful outdoor retreat located in the Appalachian Mountains. It features a large pond, the Rudd Pond, that is perfect for swimming, fishing, boating, and more. There are also many trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Visitors can also take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and mountains from the park’s many scenic overlooks. The park also features a picnic area, campground, and other amenities for a perfect day outdoors.

Wononskopomuc Lake, nestled within the serene landscapes of Litchfield County, Connecticut, stands as a tranquil retreat renowned for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. This picturesque lake, often referred to as Lakeville Lake, captivates visitors with its pristine waters, scenic vistas, and a peaceful ambiance that invites relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.

Nestled in the picturesque northwest corner of Connecticut, Salisbury is a charming town that embodies the quintessential New England experience. Steeped in history, surrounded by natural beauty, and graced with a vibrant community spirit, Salisbury invites visitors to explore its historic streets, scenic landscapes, and cultural offerings.

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Litchfield County, Lime Rock Park stands as a historic and iconic destination for motorsports enthusiasts. Established in 1957, this road racing venue has earned a reputation as one of the most picturesque and challenging tracks in the United States, offering an unforgettable experience for both drivers and spectators.

Brace Mountain is located in the town of Dover. It is the highest peak in the county and is part of the Appalachian Mountain Range. It stands at an elevation of 1,731 feet and is the sixth highest peak in the state. It is made up of Brace Mountain itself and several other peaks nearby, including the nearby Stissing Mountain. It offers breathtaking views of the Hudson Valley, the Catskills, and the Berkshires, and is a popular spot for hikers, campers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

Mount Riga State Park is an undeveloped public recreation area located in the town of Salisbury, Connecticut. The state park offers opportunities for hiking and bow hunting. The Undermountain Trail connects to the northernmost section of the Appalachian Trail in Connecticut from the trail head at Mount Riga State Park's parking lot on Connecticut Route 41. The park is managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Litchfield County, Connecticut, the Sharon Audubon Center stands as a beacon of environmental education, wildlife conservation, and appreciation for the natural world. As part of the National Audubon Society, this center is dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding of local ecosystems, birds, and wildlife, while promoting stewardship of the environment.

Bear Mountain, located in the town of Salisbury in Litchfield County, Connecticut, stands as the highest peak in the state, reaching an elevation of approximately 2,316 feet (706 meters). As part of the southern Taconic Range, Bear Mountain offers outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers a rewarding destination for exploration and breathtaking vistas.

Tucked away in the natural beauty of Litchfield, Connecticut, Great Falls is a captivating destination where the raw power of water meets the tranquility of the surrounding landscape. This scenic spot, known for its cascading waters, provides visitors with a mesmerizing display of nature's beauty.

Twin Lakes, nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Litchfield County, Connecticut, stand as a stunning natural jewel formed by the glacial activity of centuries past. Consisting of two interconnected lakes, West Twin Lake and East Twin Lake, this serene destination offers a harmonious blend of scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and a tranquil retreat for nature enthusiasts.

Stissing Pond is a 498-acre lake located in Dutchess County, New York. It is one of the larger lakes in the region, and is home to a variety of aquatic wildlife, including largemouth bass, northern pike, yellow perch, and sunfish. It is also popular among locals for its nearby camping, fishing, and boating activities. The lake has a maximum depth of 28 feet and is bordered by the Stissing Mountain State Forest. There are several public access points located on its shores.

The Stissing Mountain Fire Tower is a historic tower that was built in 1921 by the New York State Conservation Department. Standing at 73 feet tall, it provides panoramic views of the surrounding area and is one of the oldest fire towers in the state. The tower was manned by a fire warden until the 1970s when the state began to use aerial surveillance instead. Today, visitors can climb the tower’s 77 steps to enjoy the views and learn about the history of fire towers and fire spotting.

The West Cornwall Covered Bridge, situated in the picturesque Litchfield County, Connecticut, is a charming and historic landmark that beckons visitors to step back in time and appreciate the craftsmanship of a bygone era. This iconic covered bridge, spanning the Housatonic River, is not only a functional structure but also a symbol of New England's rich architectural heritage.

Stissing Mountain in Dutchess County is a beautiful, secluded spot. The highest point in the county, it rises 805 feet above sea level. The area features picturesque views of the mountains, valleys, and the rolling countryside. Visitors can take in the natural beauty of the mountain and the surrounding environment, including the nearby Catskill Mountains. Hiking and biking trails offer plenty of opportunities to explore the area.

Nestled along the banks of the Housatonic River in the scenic Litchfield County, Housatonic Meadows State Park stands as a natural haven, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the outdoors. This expansive state park offers a blend of picturesque landscapes, riverfront tranquility, and outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts and families alike.

The Wassaic Project is a non-profit arts organization located in the rural town of Wassaic. Established in 2011, the organization is dedicated to providing creative opportunities to the local community and beyond. Through their annual summer festival, they bring hundreds of national and international artists to Wassaic to exhibit and perform, while also hosting workshops, screenings, and other events throughout the year in their gallery, theater, and outdoor installations.

Nestled within the historic town of Litchfield, the Canaan Union Depot Museum stands as a captivating repository of the region's rich history and cultural heritage. Housed within the venerable Canaan Union Depot, this museum invites visitors on a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the evolution of Litchfield and the surrounding areas.

Wilcox Memorial Park is a well-loved 20-acre park located in the city of Adelphi. It is a great spot for families to gather for a picnic, take a leisurely stroll, or let their children play on the playground. The park's features include an amphitheater, gazebo, walking trails, and an off-leash dog exercise area. There are also a number of sporting facilities, such as baseball, soccer, and tennis courts, as well as a basketball court.

Taconic State Park is known for its scenic woodlands, rugged hills, and open meadows. The park is made up of two sections - the Taconic State Park and the Copake Taconic Region. The Taconic State Park is home to the Bash Bish Falls, a beautiful 60-foot waterfall. The Copake Taconic Region is a wilder area of the park, with a network of trails for hikers to explore. Visitors can also enjoy camping, boating, fishing, and swimming in the park's numerous lakes and streams.

Copake Iron Works Historic Site is located in Columbia and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1845, this former iron ore smelting plant is one of the oldest surviving industrial sites in the United States.The Copake Iron Works Historic Site is a reminder of the importance of the iron industry in the development of Columbia County. Operated by the Columbia Iron Works Company, the site was part of the Columbia-Catskill region's industrial growth in the 19th century.