Kalli and I took advantage of a beautiful Sunday afternoon to visit the beautiful grounds of the Vanderbilt Mansion Historic Site, located in Hyde Park along the east shores of the Hudson River.
This was a very popular place to be a sunny but brisk Sunday afternoon in autumn.
After we parked our car, we strolled along the park road north past large open fields, where families played.
A short distance into our walk, we arrived at a amazing overlook to the west.
Wide open meadows sprawl out, with the Hudson River and rolling peaks in the distance.
We continued our walk down the steep access road to the Bard Rock picnic area on the river. There are pleasant views both upstream and downstream from here.
A barge was stationary near us.
The view upriver on a beautiful fall day.
After enjoying the river views, we continued our walk on t he Hyde Park trail, which traverses through the woods near the river and makes a loop around the property. Near the southern end of the trail, the sounds of rushing water could be heard. We walked about 50 yards away to a nice view of man made waterfalls tumbling down Crum Elbow Creek.
Bridge detail on Dock Street.
Continuing north on the Hyde Park Trail, we soon arrived at the formal gardens. This was a beautiful area, meticulously maintained.
Formal gardens.
The last stop before returning to the car was the mansion itself.
Open lawns surround the mansion on three sides, providing fantastic views of the mansion. This is from the front(east side).
The 50 room Classical-style mansion was built in 1898 by Frederick William Vanderbilt, grandson of Cornelius Vanderbilt, the famous 19th century railroad tycoon and richest man in America during his lifetime.
The north side of the mansion, with the sun just cresting the top.
An up close view at the pillars on the north facade. Truly majestic.
A couple out enjoying the day. These grounds make the perfect spot to get out, stretch your legs and enjoy the nature and history around you.
We completed a full loop of the grounds, really taking our time and soaking in our surroundings. Not sure on exact mileage, but 2.5 miles may be close.
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