Bull Hill Full Loop

There are many hikes in the Bull Hill area of Hudson Highlands State Park. This particular loop hike is considered the "Bull Hill Full Loop" as stated by new signage along the route. The full loop actually is not a loop around Bull Hill. It travels over the summit and descends to the north then northwest toward Breakneck Brook.From the Bull Hill parking area, follow the Washburn trail (white discs markers) up a wide gravel road that is closed to vehicles. This leads to a quarry. From the quarry, the trail ascends a mound on the right and is a consistant climb about 2 miles. There are many great views of the Hudson River and Storm King State Park the west. The true summit of Bull Hill does not have any views. The trail descends a rocky forest road for .8 miles until reaching a junction with the Nelsonville Trail (green markers) and the Notch Trail (blue markers). For the Full Loop (well marked), turn left onto the Notch Trail and follow for one mile when you reach Breakneck Brook. At the brook this is several ruins. Turn left onto the Brook Trail (red markers). This soon turns into a wide dirt path and then into an old paved road which gave access to the Stern/Cornish mansion. Many stone ruins along the path and new signage telling the story of the historic mansion site. After one mile the trail reaches the Cornish Trails (blue markers). This section is easy and in less than one mile you will arrive back at the trailhead parking area.