Fallen Tree Leaves Hiker With Serious Injuries on Dangerous Cold Spring, New York Trail

A hiker from Manhattan found themselves in a scary situation after being struck by a tree on a dangerous Hudson Valley trail.

Unconscious Hiker on Popular Hudson Highlands Trail

In the most recent New York State Department of Environmental Conservation press release round up, the DEC details a scary situation on one of the more popular, and dangerous trails in the Hudson Valley.

According to the statement on Saturday May 3rd, 2025, Forest Rangers were assisted from Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation as they were alerted to an unconscious hiker.

The hiker was about a mile and half up Breakneck Ridge Trail, which is one of the more strenuous hikes in the region.

Breakneck Hiker Seriously Injured By Fallen Tree

A call was made to 911 by the injured hikers hiking partner. Emergency services were informed that the hiker had been struck by a falling tree.

The statement goes on to explain that around 4:10 pm Rangers Pries and Russo arrived on the scene and joined park staff, paramedics and volunteer firefighters who were providing care.

It's reported that the 28-year-old hiker from Manhattan had suffered serious injuries. He did however regain consciousness and the scene was cleared by 6 pm.

Breakneck Ridge: One of The Most Dangerous Trails in NY

It's no secret that Breakneck Ridge is one of the more popular trails in the Hudson Valley.

With that being said, it's also one of the most dangerous. It seems as though every week we hear about injuries on the trail big and small.

A DEC report explains that since the late 80s there have been at least 9 deaths on Breakneck Ridge.

Many believed there would be a decrease in injuries on the Hudson Highland trail, at least for the next 2 years.

READ MORE: Why Will a Popular Beacon Trailhead Be Closed For 2 Years?

The Breakneck Ridge trail head and Metro North stop will be closed until further notice as a construction project will begin on the Breakneck Connector and bridge that will make the area more organized for hikers and motorists.

It will also bring much needed improvements like the addition of restrooms and more trash and recycling receptacles to the area.

Construction should wrap up in 2027.

While Breakneck Ridge is closed you can check out these great hikes: