Impressive Hudson River Valley Ruins - The Cornish Ruins

The Cornish ruins are a part of the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, and offers a glimpse into the past, with the ruins of industrialist Edward Cornish’s 650-acre gilded age estate. The remains of the mansion, pool, and some outbuildings including a greenhouse, coach house and pump house can be seen during the hike.

Back in 1917, newlyweds Edward and Selina Cornish decided to move out of the city and settle in the charmingly small town of Cold Spring. The couple purchased the property from Chicago diamond merchant Sigmud Stern. In May of 1938 tragedy struck, the couple died within two weeks of each other. A year before his death, Edward, desiring to protect the estate wished to donate the property to New York State upon his death. State park commissioners rejected this offer, claiming that the the mountainous terrain was not suitable for a public park. Joel O’Donnel Cornish inherited the property and maintained it, but may not have occupied it through the 1950’s. In 1958, a fire claimed the mansion, leaving only the stone walls. The property was sold to the Central Hudson Gas and Electric for use as a power plant. This plan was eventually abandoned.

Here is what caught my eye; I hope you enjoy!

Informational signs are posted all around the former estate grounds.

The Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve map showing the many trails including the Cornish Trail.

A view of the Hudson River peeks out between the trees.

Inside the mansion ruins

The mansion ruins with huge stacked fireplaces

Do you like the images posted?
Click here to explore the shop.

50 Hikes in the Lower Hudson Valley (Explorer's 50 Hikes)

By New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, Chazin, Daniel

Historic Hudson Valley: A Photographic Tour

By de Flon, Nancy

Hiking Waterfalls New York: A Guide To The State's Best Waterfall Hikes

By Minetor, Randi

You can just imagine champagne glasses clinking on this lawn and the sounds of laughter coming from the swimming pool nearby.

The swimming pool located near the mansion

.

.

.

.

Once a dream home, now only a skeleton survives

.

These abandoned rooms were once filled with music and laughter during lavish parties.

.

.

.

.

This is another nearby trail called Little Stony Point

What you should know:

• The trail can be accessed from the small Hudson Valley town of Cold Spring, N.Y.

• Off the road and pay parking lot options are available; check posted parking regulations signs.

• Parking during the fall can be difficult.

• Wear proper gear and bring plenty of water.

• Plan you route and carry a map or gps.

• Be considerate of other hikers.

• Stay on marked trails at all times.

• Carry in - carry out, do not litter.

• Pets are allowed on the trails.

Location: 3011 Route 9D, Cold Spring, NY 10516

For more information: Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve