The Magnificent Hudson River

Flowing 315 miles from Lake Tear of the Clouds in the Adirondacks to New York Harbor, the Hudson River winds its way south past Jersey City and into the Atlantic Ocean.

Hudson River Overview

The Hudson River spans 315 miles, starting in the Adirondack Mountains and ending in New York Harbor. It has a minimum depth of 32 feet and a maximum depth of over 200 feet. The northern section is freshwater, fed by snowmelt, groundwater, and rain, while the southern portion is brackish due to the mix of freshwater and ocean saltwater.

Tidal Estuary

The Hudson River’s lower half, approximately 153 miles, is a tidal estuary where the river meets the ocean. Salinity, tides, and currents vary significantly in this area. Freshwater flows southward as salty ocean water pushes northward, creating a saltwater front near Newburgh, NY, about 70 miles from the ocean.

Ecosystem

The Hudson River supports diverse wildlife due to its varying water composition. It provides ample food and is a breeding ground for many species. Over 200 fish and bird species inhabit the river, and the estuary’s oysters naturally filter and cleanse the harbor waters.

American Indian History

The Hudson River has been home to tribes like the Lenape, Mohicans, and Mohawks, who had deep spiritual and daily connections to the river, once called Mahicannituck, meaning “the waters that are never still.” The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian promotes a richer shared human experience by fostering a more informed understanding of Native peoples.

Henry Hudson History

Named after the English explorer Henry Hudson, the river was explored by Hudson in 1609 for the Dutch East India Company. His expedition aimed to find a shortcut to Asia. Though unsuccessful in that regard, his voyages contributed significantly to mapping North America’s coastline.