HudsonValleyGoodStuff

Poets' Walk Park: Romantic picnic spot and trail in Red Hook

 
  
I heard that Poets' Walk Park in Red Hook is a romantic place to go for a walk, but I had never been there until today. What a beautiful spot! It's a great spot for kids to walk too since they can run as they please and not worry about cars. (The trail is gravel though so not that stroller-friendly). There are beautiful rustic benches along the trail too. For more info and detailed directions visit the Scenic Hudson Parks website. You will also find a long list of other beautiful trails and parks in the Hudson Valley here too.

Montano's Shoe Store: Old-fashioned Customer Service in Saugerties

Montano's Shoe Store in Saugerties is where I went to by my daughter's first walking shoes many years ago. I hadn't been shopping there since then. I usually buy new kids shoes when I'm in a rush at Target or Dick's Sporting Goods, but I had an epiphany last week when it became clear to me that my kids needed new shoes. Why not give them the royal shoe treatment for once and take them to Montano's in Saugerties? Montano's is a family business that has been selling shoes since 1906 so the staff there really know feet. The shoes are high quality, so the shoes are more expensive, but you get what you pay for. The staff measure your feet and give you honest opinions about the fit. You can get custom-made orthotics here too. We left with two beautiful new pairs of Stride Rite sneakers and happy feet! Next time I go I will get myself a pair of FitFlops too! Montano's Shoe Store, 77 Partition Street, Saugerties, NY. 845.246.4381. Montano's website.

Peaceful Power Walk on a Gloomy Day: Ashokan Reservoir--Ashokan, NY

I love the Ashokan Reservoir! In the summer it's a perfect place to ride a bike, power walk, or push a stroller, especially if you like flat easy  terrain.  When the weather is gloomy and drizzly as it was last Sunday, it's nice too because it is never muddy and the view is gorgeous no matter what the weather is like.  It's not good though if you have a terrible fear of heights!  I just have a mild phobia so it's not so bad.  Getting there is half the fun!  For more info go to:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashokan_Reservoir#Permitted_Activities. I can't find an official website, but this will give you a little history and information.

Cooper Lake Road--Bearsville, NY

I like to call Cooper Lake Road the "Gin Lane" of Woodstock.  It's where I take visitors and house guests for photo-opps. It's a perfect place to walk your dog, run, or walk your baby in a stroller. I recommend using 4 Wheel Drive if you brave it during the winter months. There is no cell service here,  but it's a beautiful place to get stuck! Cooper Lake Road intersects the hamlets of Bearsville and Lake Hill. If you're driving along Route 212 in Bearsville, just keep your eye out for it. It's the first uphill right turn on County Road 45. It's about 2.4 miles.