Hudson Highlands High

It was like a dream. No, it was better than a dream. It was a beautiful assault on the senses. Cool wind and swirling leaves, the colors of the rainbow popping from the surrounding trees. The smell of moist earth and the decaying foliage resembling maple syrup and sometimes hot-buttered rum, all signaling that we're deep into autumn.

At the height of the pandemic, my cycling partner and I frequently left Manhattan on two wheels as a newfound pastime. The fresh air and exercise were welcome distractions from an inescapable reality. We normally traveled north to the Hudson Valley along the river, drizzled with charming towns and hamlets where we would stop for a coffee or beer along the way or at the end of an exhilarating ride.

On this particular fall day, we stopped by Bear Mountain on our way to Storm King Highway. After the six-kilometer 6% gradient climb, we were rewarded with world class views. Our quads were now also sufficiently warmed up for the trek further north.

Heading up Bear Mountain at approximately two kilometers distance

Coming down Bear Mountain on a leaf-strewn road approximately one kilometer from the top

Storm King is only a 3-mile stretch. North of West Point, It’s a short ride packed with unforgettable sumptuous curves, robust foliage, and wild and raw views of the mighty Hudson river. On this particular October day, it was all the more exotic as we were near peak season for leaf-peeping.

Storm King Highway facing south

Bull Hill and Breakneck Ridge on the east side of the Hudson

The striking colors, warmth of the sun, and deep earthy scents created made for a euphoric experience. It was one of those days you wish you could share with everyone you love.