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James Baird State Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 601 Google reviews · Running trail in Pleasant Valley, New York · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
We have not been able to confirm the surface, distance or shape of James Baird State Park yet from its own listing, the park's website or runner reviews — so those cells stay blank rather than guess. What is below comes straight from the listing and from reviewers' own words. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Park featuring hiking trails and a golf course, plus picnic tables and a playground.
What runners say about James Baird State Park
“All the facilities are very Howell maintained and the grounds properly manicured.”
“James Baird State Park is beautiful, the hikes are moderate with great nature & views!”
In Dutchess County's geographic center, conveniently accessed from the Taconic Parkway to the east and County Route 47 to the west. Features basketball and tennis courts, educational playground (with a theme about turtles), golf course, driving range and 590 acres' worth of hiking trails.
Very nice park. I took my dog on some of the trails were well maintained. They were pretty extensive with varying elevation which made it fun. There's also a picnic area and playground if you have kids. Dogs are not allowed in that area of the park, but are allowed elsewhere.
Excellent place to walk, hike, have a picnic, or rent a gazebo for an event. There's pickleball, playground for the littles and a golf course. Definitely recommend this place.
This is truly a beautiful pwith. The access from the the Taconic and a few other roads in the area. They have plenty of picnic areas, event areas, play grounds, and walking trails. We attended an event for veterans that featured catered food and music. It was well put together and a beautiful area to have it in
Trail conditions & character
“James Baird State Park is beautiful, the hikes are moderate with great nature & views!”
“The park has playground, golf range, basketball courts, picnic area, restrooms and restaurants.”
“Parking is always available, and bathrooms are open when not too cold.”
Plan your run at James Baird State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Websiteparks.ny.gov
- Phone(845) 452-1489
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