The roads in the Hudson Valley can be particularly treacherous in the winter when the combination of hills, narrow lanes, and quickly changing weather makes for white-knuckle driving on any road. Moreover, dangers abound year-round, whether it is folks distracted by fall foliage, big trucks on narrow roads or other drivers going too fast. Still, certain stretches of roads in this region pose greater risks at any time of year.
“Confusing,” “narrow” and “deadly”
There are differing opinions on which Hudson Valley roads are the most dangerous. Still, here are seven in no particular order that have a reputation for being dangerous:
- Platte Clove Road in Elka Park: This narrow, winding road hugs the side of a cliff, offering breathtaking views but demanding utmost caution from drivers.
- Peekskill Hollow Road in Putnam: Known for its sharp turns and challenging terrain, it requires skillful navigation.
- 44/55 in Ulster County: This scenic route near the Shawangunk Ridge presents hairpin turns and elevation changes, making it beautiful and tricky.
- The Taconic Parkway: The “Narrows” section in Dutchess County is notorious for its narrow lanes and slow-moving traffic, requiring patience and focus. This was voted the “deadliest road” in 2016.
- Route 209 in Ulster and Orange County: Potholes and road conditions can catch drivers off guard, emphasizing the need for vigilance.
- Mid-Hudson Bridge Interchange: Even locals find this interchange confusing due to its intricate traffic pattern.
- Bear Mountain Road in Cortlandt: Many love the view from this one, but it often is compared to a goat path.
Drive safe, New York
For those who live here or are ready to explore the region, remember that the beauty of the journey is best enjoyed when paired with safe driving practices. Keep this in mind, and you’ll hopefully have a timely, scenic and otherwise uneventful trip. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. The acts of negligent drivers can mean property damage, trips to the hospital and long recovery times.