The Hudson Valley Marathon at the Walkway Over the Hudson is a scenic road race held in Highland, New York, United States, built around one of the most distinctive running venues in the Northeast: the Walkway Over the Hudson, the worldβs longest elevated pedestrian bridge. The event offers five race distances, from a family friendly 1 mile run to a full Boston Qualifier marathon, making it accessible to beginners, recreational runners, half marathoners, and experienced marathoners chasing certified times.
The course showcases the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley, with runners crossing high above the Hudson River and taking in views that stretch from the Catskills to the Hudson Highlands. The marathon route includes two crossings of the Walkway Over the Hudson and passes through Highland and Poughkeepsie, while the shorter distances offer their own scenic sections through the same historic region. The half marathon and marathon are both USATF certified, and the marathon is listed as a Boston Qualifier.
The race has a strong destination appeal. It is close enough to New York City for a weekend trip, with access via Metro North to Poughkeepsie, while still feeling like a getaway into the Hudson Valleyβs bridges, rail trails, river views, and small town race atmosphere. With marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, and 1 mile options, the event works well for mixed ability groups, run clubs, families, and runners building toward longer distances.