New York: Lower Hudson Valley

Score: 59

"The lower Hudson Valley has some beautiful small towns, important historic sites, and tranquil landscapes interspersed with some ugly development on both sides of the river. Parts of it are in serious trouble from traffic and unsympathetic development, and much of the rest is fragile. The area needs some strong land-use planning and controls."

"Plenty to explore, with good natural areas on both sides of the river; tremendous early colonial history coupled with the great wealth of the industrial revolution and later contemporary art."

"Poor signage and interpretation."

"River-related sites like Sunnyside, Lyndhurst, and West Point are great to explore."