The original bridge ceased operations in 1974 after a fire damaged the tracks.
The bridge was originally built to transport heavy coal trains from Pennsylvania to New England.
During the bridge's construction in the late 19th century, it was the longest bridge of its type in the world.
The bridge survived several decades of abandonment and neglect before being repurposed as a public park in 2009.
The steel superstructure contains roughly 100,000 bolts and 15,000 tons of steel.
The walkway connects two distinct counties, Dutchess and Ulster, at the center of the span.
Walkway Over the Hudson is a 1.28-mile linear park built on the former Poughkeepsie-Highland Railroad Bridge, originally constructed in 1889. The structure sits 212 feet above the Hudson River, connecting the cities of Poughkeepsie and Highland. It is the longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world. The steel cantilever design allows visitors to walk across the river corridor without crossing traffic. The park serves as a vital segment of the Empire State Trail, a multi-use path spanning New York State. Elevators are available on both the Poughkeepsie and Highland sides to provide ADA-compliant access from the riverfront to the bridge deck. The path features a flat, paved surface suitable for walking, cycling, and running. Interpretive panels along the route detail the engineering history and regional ecology of the Hudson Valley.
The center of the span, looking north or south along the river, provides the best unobstructed panoramic views.
Check the wind conditions before visiting, as it can be significantly cooler and windier on the bridge deck than at ground level.
Visit both ends of the bridge to experience the different access points and nearby parklands.
Bring sun protection, as the bridge offers almost no natural shade for its entire length.
Attempting to walk the entire length and back during midday in summer without water, as the lack of shade and reflected heat can be intense.
Open year-round, though the glass-enclosed elevators may experience seasonal service interruptions or closures due to high winds and winter maintenance.
Cyclists must yield to pedestrians and are required to use bells or verbal warnings when passing.
