Empire State Greenways Conference: Can't Miss Field Trips

The 2025 Empire State Greenways Conference won't just be all work and no play! We're hosting field trips all weekend to help attendees explore the region and have some fun.

Wednesday & Friday - Field Trips

There will be six options for field adventures showcasing Hudson Valley greenway highlights by foot or bike. Three activities will be offered the afternoon of Wednesday 10/15 and Friday afternoon 10/17 after the morning sessions to conclude the conference.

On Wednesday, conference attendees will have the option to explore newly enhanced sections of the O&W Rail Trail on foot, learn more about the historic Stockade District on a walking tour, or take a ride along the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail (transportation will be provided).

Along the Line: Exploring the O&W Rail Trail
Explore the evolving story of the O&W Rail Trail on this guided 4 mile walking experience featuring multiple stops along the corridor. This immersive journey offers a chance to learn about the trail’s history, ongoing development, and its growing role in connecting communities.

Streets with Stories: A Walking Tour of Kingston’s Historic District

Join the Friends of Historic Kingston for a guided walking tour through Downtown Kingston and the Stockade District to discover how this vibrant historic district blends preservation, walkability, and community vitality.

Trail Tales: A Guided Ride on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail
Join us for a guided ride along the scenic Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, co-hosted with the Wallkill Valley Land Trust, and discover how this former rail corridor was transformed into a beloved recreational and conservation asset.

On Friday, attendees will have the option to tour Sojourner Truth State Park, take a ride along the Ashokan Rail Trail (transportation will be provided), or take a walking tour through the Village of New Paltz to learn more about creative ways to integrate greenway trails into community planning and policy priorities to support economic development.

Steps Through History: A Walk in Sojourner Truth State Park
Join us for a guided walk through Sojourner Truth State Park, where natural beauty and rich history meet along the Hudson River. Discover the park’s evolving landscape, learn about Sojourner Truth’s legacy, and explore how this unique space honors both cultural heritage and ecological restoration.

Rolling Through the Reservoir: A Ride Along the Ashokan
Join us for a scenic, guided ride along the Ashokan Rail Trail to learn how this once-industrial rail corridor was thoughtfully converted into a world-class multi-use trail—balancing environmental protection, public access, and engineering ingenuity. Don’t have a bike? No problem—rental bikes will be available at cost to participants.

A Path to Progress: A Guided Walking Tour of New Paltz

Take a walk with us through the Village of New Paltz and see how trails and thoughtful development can work hand-in-hand to create thriving, connected communities.

Thursday - Evening Guided Walk, Dinner & Film Screening

Midtown Stroll: Stretch Your Legs, See the Sights

Unwind after a full day at the conference with a casual, guided linear walk through Midtown Kingston. This early evening stroll offers a chance to explore the neighborhood’s evolving streetscape, public art, local businesses, and community spaces—while networking with fellow attendees, getting some fresh air, and seeing firsthand how walkable design is shaping Midtown’s future.

Dinner & A Movie: An Evening of Food, Film, and Conversation

Wrap up the day with a relaxing evening featuring a community dinner and an exclusive premier of From Rails to Trails, a documentary chronicling the 60-year effort to transform abandoned railroads into trails for cycling and walking. Narrated by Edward Norton and featuring interviews with Howard Dean, Pete Buttigieg, Tommy Thompson, and Rails to Trails Conservancy co-founder Peter Harnik, the hour-long documentary is a story of breathtaking imagination, endless dedication, and tough political battles. Stick around for informal conversation and reflection—this is your chance to connect, unwind, and be inspired.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience cutting-edge sessions, networking opportunities, and inspring success stories from across the Empire State Trail network. Whether you're looking to fund a local project, strengthen community partnerships, or learn from trail-building experts, this is the can't-miss event shaping the next generation of New York’s outdoor infrastructure.

Register here