The popular “Giant Stairs” section of the Shore Trail at Palisades Interstate Park near State Line Lookout has been closed following a major rockfall and slide, park officials announced Friday, Jan. 9.
Officials said the area is unsafe due to the ongoing risk of additional rockfall activity, prompting an immediate closure of the trail. The Giant Stairs, located near the George Washington Bridge, is one of the park’s most heavily used hiking destinations, known for its steep, rocky terrain and panoramic views of the Hudson River.
As part of emergency structural repairs, multiple access restrictions are now in effect until further notice. Henry Hudson Drive is closed to all vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians from the Englewood Picnic Area entrance north to the Undercliff Picnic Area. Access to Ross Dock and the Englewood Picnic Area is available only from the Edgewater park entrance, while access to the Alpine and Undercliff Picnic Areas is limited to the Alpine park entrance.
Additionally, Dyckman Hill Road at the Englewood Cliffs park entrance remains closed to all use, and the Dyckman Hill Trail, marked with yellow blazes, has also been shut down.
Park officials said crews are actively addressing the situation and assessing conditions. Hikers and visitors are urged to avoid the closed areas until further notice, with updates to be provided as conditions change.