Hudson Valley hikers aren't going to stay home just because there's snow on the ground. Luckily, there are trail markers systems in place to help keep adventure-seekers oriented and out of trouble.

While trail markers (and trailblazes) can be helpful to stay on track no matter the season, the winter months add a few extra wrinkles into the equation... as well as some extra markers that only apply when there's snow on the ground.

Trail marker like this one can tell you far more than if you're lost or not (Catskills Visitors Center via Facebook)
Trail marker like this one can tell you far more than if you're lost or not (Catskills Visitors Center via Facebook)
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How to Tell North-South and East-West Roads in New York

One of the only things I still remember from taking Driver's Ed in high school was that generally, odd-numbered roads (like Interstate 87) run north-south, while even-numbered roads (like Interstate 84) run east-west. Turns out the same can be true with hiking trails.

What Trail Marker Colors Mean in the Catskills

Recently, the Catskills Visitors Center took to Facebook to help spread some general trail marker education (below). East-west trails, they shared, are generally marked with red, while north-south trails are normally blue... and that's not all.

Regional vs. Statewide Trail Markers in New York

While not every region follows the rules of east-west and north-south trail colors, nearly every public space in New York State follows the guideline that snowmobile trails are marked with orange. There's also an easy way to tell if the trail will turn.

This trail marker shows the path turning right (Canva)
This trail marker shows the path turning right (Canva)
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Trail Marker Placement in New York

Guidelines from New York State Parks Department include placing markers between five and six feet from the ground, and placing them close enough that the next marker is visible from the previous one. Two markers stacked vertically can also display a turn, with the top marker slightly left denoting a left turn and the top marker to the right showing a right turn (above).

The 25 Absolute Best Hikes in the Hudson Valley

We've compiled a list of the 25 best hikes in the Hudson Valley. All of the hikes are of varying difficulties and lengths, so no matter your skill level or amount of time you have available there is a hike for you here.

Gallery Credit: Weston Loving

Best Hudson Valley Views, No Hike Needed

Here are some of the best scenic overlooks in the Hudson Valley that don't require a long hike

Gallery Credit: Google

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