Breakneck Ridge
Breakneck Ridge is a mountain along the Hudson River between Beacon and Cold Spring, New York, straddling the boundary between Dutchess and Putnam counties. Its distinctive rocky cliffs are visible for a long distance when approached from the south, and together with Storm King Mountain on the opposite bank of the river forms Wey-Gat, or Wind Gate, the picturesque northern gateway to the Hudson Highlands.
| Breakneck Ridge | |
|---|---|
Breakneck Ridge from across the Hudson River | |
| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 1,260 ft (380 m) |
| Prominence | 527 ft (161 m) |
| Coordinates | 41°27′35″N 73°57′32″W |
| Geography | |
| Location | North Highlands / Fishkill, New York, U.S. |
| Parent range | Hudson Highlands |
| Topo map | USGS West Point |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Trail |
It has several summits, the highest, some distance inland, reaching approximately 1,260 feet (384 m) above sea level. The southern face of the peak is known for its striking cliffs, the result of quarrying in past years. Lying within Hudson Highlands State Park, it offers views of the river and region and is quite popular with hikers, to the point that a rail flag stop has been established on the Metro North line which runs right by the base of the ridge along NY 9D. In 1932 a road tunnel was dug below the western slopes of the peak; it is now designated as part of Route 9D.