🌅 Best Places to Watch Hudson Valley Sunsets
Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, a family outing, or simply looking for a peaceful place to unwind, the Hudson Valley offers some incredible places to watch the sun sink behind the Catskill Mountains. Here are four of our favorite sunset destinations—all within a short drive of Kingston.
1. Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Stretching 1.28 miles across the Hudson River and standing 212 feet above the water, the Walkway offers breathtaking panoramic views in every direction. As the sun sets behind the Catskill Mountains, the river below glows with vibrant shades of orange, pink, and gold, making this one of the Hudson Valley’s most photographed sunset locations.
🌐 Website:
Walkway Over the Hudson
📞 Phone: (845) 454-9649
📍 Directions:
https://maps.google.com/?q=87+Haviland+Road,+Highland,+NY+12528
2. Kingston Point Beach
Located where the Rondout Creek meets the Hudson River, Kingston Point Beach is a peaceful waterfront destination perfect for ending the day. Watch sailboats drift by while the setting sun paints the sky above the Catskills. It’s an ideal spot for families, photographers, or anyone looking to relax by the water.
🌐 Website:
City of Kingston Parks & Recreation
📞 Phone: (845) 389-0353
📍 Directions:
https://maps.google.com/?q=102+Delaware+Ave,+Kingston,+NY+12401
3. Saugerties Lighthouse
A short scenic walk through the Ruth Reynolds Glunt Nature Preserve leads to this beautifully restored 1869 lighthouse on the Hudson River. Surrounded by tidal wetlands and river views, it’s one of the most peaceful places in the region to enjoy a spectacular sunset.
🌐 Website:
Saugerties Lighthouse
📞 Phone: (845) 247-0656
📍 Directions:
https://maps.google.com/?q=168+Lighthouse+Drive,+Saugerties,+NY+12477
4. Ashokan Reservoir
The Ashokan Reservoir is one of the Hudson Valley’s hidden gems for sunset lovers. The paved promenade offers wide-open views of the reservoir with the Catskill Mountains creating a dramatic backdrop. As the evening light reflects across the water, it’s easy to see why photographers and locals return here again and again.
🌐 Website:
NYC DEP – Ashokan Reservoir Recreation
📍 Directions:
https://maps.google.com/?q=Ashokan+Reservoir+Promenade+East+Parking+Lot,+27+BWS+Road,+Kingston,+NY+12401
🌄 Plan Your Next Sunset Adventure
The Hudson Valley is filled with incredible places to explore, but these four locations are among the very best for watching the day come to a beautiful close. Pack a picnic, bring your camera, and don’t forget to arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset for the most spectacular colors.