Sights from the Road: The Moodna Viaduct, New York Hudson River Valley
Though it may have gained world-wide visibility since appearing in the movie Michael Clayton, the Moodna Viaduct has been operational in New York’s Hudson River Valley since 1909. It is currently undergoing a restoration by the MTA.
Just down the road from Storm King Art Center, the corner of Orrs Mills Rd and Jackson Ave offered a great unobstructed vantage point. There are a good handful of small two lane roads that offer quiet, winding riding opportunities to go along with the great view. [map link]
The NY State information sign on Orrs Mills Rd. for the viaduct reads:
Moodna Viaduct.
Built 1906-1908 by Erie & Jersey R.R. Line.
Opened January 1909. Steel. 3200′ Long.
193′ at highest. Design offers little wind resistance.
I lived in Mountainville from 1941 to 1951. My brother and I were halfway across the trestle when we heard the steam whistle. We ran and got back before the train went across. During the war there was a an armed guard on the trestle. At about six in the evening he took his motorcycle and went for dinner. The trestle was unguarded for about two hours.
Gil W.