West Point Foundry Preserve

National Historic Landmark,
Cold Spring
Putnam Co.,
New York

Hiking Trails:
Yellow Trail: Yellow blaze
Red Trail: Red blaze
Blue Trail: Blue blaze

Total Time: 1:30 hour
Estimated Distance: 2.9 Miles

Pros: Historical area, scenic river views
Cons: Busy area towards Cold Spring
Hike Type: Loop, then back and out
Level of Difficulty: Easy

Google Maps of Parking:
https://goo.gl/maps/FdYJjAThdWb2s5Ah6

I still had to take it easy so have been doing more exploring over hiking. This trip took me to West Point Foundry Preserve, the remains of a major ironworking and machine shop site that operated from 1818 until 1911. There are many historical plaques and artifacts, with one remaining structure still present. I explored most of the property, starting with the Yellow trail to the gun platform, passing the 1865 office building and ruins, then up the side of Foundry brook past some cascades. I then took the Yellow Trail up the stairs, up to the dam and waterfalls under the bridge of Route 9D. I then took Chestnut Street back to the Red Trail, back to the parking area. I then took the Blue Trail to the rail station, crossed the tracks on the overpass, and then to Foundry Dock Park. I walked through the park and then headed back on the Blue Trail back to my car.

Map of the Route

West Point Foundry Sign

Gun Platforms

In Front of the 1865 Office Building

Foundry Brook

Cool Mushrooms

Foundry Brook Waterfalls

Boring Mill and Waterwheel

Foundry Brook Dam and Waterfalls Underneath the Bridge

Yellow Path

Foundry Cove

1833 Chapel

Hudson River at Foundry Dock Park

Metro North Railroad Crossing