Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area

The average annual temperature in the Hudson Valley ranges from 55° F (12.8° C) to 40° F (4.4 °C).

Summers are generally warm with daytime temperatures ranging from the upper 70s to the low 80s (24-29° C). There are occasionally intervals of humid conditions with temperatures reaching the 90s (32° C). Temperatures tend to be cooler in the mountains of the Catskill Park. June through September, the Hudson Valley experiences approximately 60-70% of possible sunshine hours. On average, the Hudson Valley experiences approximately two to three inches of rain per month. Severe droughts are rare, however there are occasional periods of below average rainfall.

During the winter, the temperature averages near 26° F (-3.3° C) in the Hudson Valley. The upper Hudson Valley receives approximately 60 inches (15 m) of snowfall while the lower Hudson Valley receives approximately 40 inches (10 m). Snowfall typically occurs between mid-December and mid-March.

Major floods, tornadoes, tropical storms and hurricanes are rare.

Sponsored events of the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area include:

Hudson River Valley Ramble
Held in partnership with the New York State DEC Estuary Program, the Ramble is held over two weekends in September. The annual event features a variety of hikes, bikes, walks, paddles, and festivals that celebrate the historic, cultural, and natural resources of the Hudson River Valley through education and recreation.

Revolutionary War Reenactments
Celebrations coincide with the 225th Anniversary of the Revolutionary War and will continue annually through 2009. Events commemorating the Revolutionary War include reenactments, lectures by nationally-known figures, and honorary ceremonies recognizing key individuals.

Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial
Celebrations will coincide with the 400th anniversary of the voyages of Henry Hudson and Samuel de Champlain as well as the 200th anniversary of Robert Fulton’s steamship voyage along the Hudson River.

Great Hudson River Paddle
Participants join the 10-day paddling event as they kayak the Hudson River from Albany to New York City while making periodic stops at Hudson River Greenway Water Trail sites. Through a variety of site visits and presentations, paddlers learn not only of the historic and scenic resources which can only be viewed from the river, but also about the Hudson River as a driving force behind regional commerce and local settlement patterns.

Great Hudson Valley Pedal
In partnership with Parks and Trails New York, the Pedal offers a six-day, 200-mile sojourn. Participants encounter heritage resources, cultural resources, and parklands. The experience is further enhanced as cyclists can take advantage of the opportunity to spend additional time visiting Heritage Sites along the bike route.