Route 9W / US 202 along the Hudson River

[JimFromJersey]

Considering this as our first day of the August trip towards Vermont. How is Route 9 between say, Nyack and Bear Mountain/Storm King area? I'm looking at coming up the NJTP, then hopping I-287 to get around most of the Newark/NYC nonsense, and then sliding up along the river for a while, stopping overnight somewhere between West Point and Storm King. I'd rather use some scenic roads instead of the interstates, if possible. Not in a rush. But would also not like to spend hours in traffic on a Saturday PM in August, if you know what I mean... 🙂

Thanks

J

[Belgique]

I love back roads and hate Interstates. That said, I was just on 9 near West Point in a car on both sides. I had planned to leave the USMA park on 9W to start our trek to Boston but some of the bridge heights seemed sketchy/too close for comfort. Other than that, it's a 2 lane, windy road with some pretty steep climbs and descents in places.

[JimFromJersey]

^^ yeah, after looking at Mapquest a little more it would be easier to stay on the GSP up as far as 287. Unclear though - what is "Albany North"?

I guess my question now is, from the Tappan Zee bridge north, which is a nicer ride - Route 9 on the eastern bank, or 9W on the western bank?

[trop-a-cal]

Don't go I 287 as it's all traffic and hills and takes you way out of the way. Hop on Garden State Parkway North anywhere and get off at Mahwah, which is a left exit that takes you to 17. Right wide lanes are for Motorhomes and busses on GS. Once on 17 go to Albany North and then pick up what ever local roads you want, but check them for your clearance first. Gas up in NJ on 17 as NY gas is higher.